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Remote Optical Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Remote Reference ID: JN -052026-107129 Date Posted: 05/26/2026 Shortcut: * Description * Recommended Jobs Description: Remote Our client seeks a Senior AI/ML Engineer to design and deliver cloud ...

Senior AI/ML Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

$102K - $140K/yr

Remote/Hybrid: This role is based remotely but if you live within a 50-mile radius of Sunnyvale, CA ... The Data Labeling Engineering team designs, builds, and operates hybrid human/machine data labeling ...

Senior Engineer - Water Resource Engineer

Boone, IA · On-site +1

$102K - $141K/yr

They are an engineering and environmental consulting firm that specializes in water, ecology, and community. The ideal person loves the outdoors and wants to work at a firm focused on creating a ...

Sr. Virtual Solutions Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site +1

$92K - $127K/yr

As a pioneering developer and leading producer of fiber lasers and amplifiers, we are committed to applying light-based technologies in ways that improve life. Our mission is to develop innovative ...

Remote Optical Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$78K

$134.9K

$158.3K

How much do remote optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote optical engineer in Iowa is $134,889.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,200.00 and $156,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Remote Optical Engineer position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Remote Optical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of optics, photonics, and optical system design, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation tools such as Zemax or LightTools, CAD software, and possibly certifications in optical engineering or fiber optics is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving, effective communication, and self-motivation are key soft skills, especially when working remotely. These skills are vital for delivering precise optical solutions, collaborating efficiently across virtual teams, and managing projects independently.

What are some typical projects or challenges a Remote Optical Engineer might work on?

As a Remote Optical Engineer, you may work on projects ranging from designing lenses or laser systems to optimizing fiber optic communications or developing imaging devices. Common challenges include troubleshooting optical alignment remotely, accurately simulating system performance, and ensuring close collaboration with mechanical and electrical engineering teams across different time zones. The ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and navigate virtual project management tools is essential for success. These diverse projects offer opportunities to innovate, enhance your technical skills, and contribute to cutting-edge technologies from anywhere.

What is a Remote Optical Engineer job?

A Remote Optical Engineer designs, analyzes, and tests optical systems and components while working from a remote location. They may be involved in developing lenses, fiber optics, laser systems, or imaging technologies for industries like telecommunications, healthcare, or aerospace. Using simulations and modeling software, they optimize optical performance and troubleshoot design challenges. Collaboration with teams happens virtually, requiring strong communication skills. This role often demands expertise in optics, photonics, and related engineering principles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Remote Optical Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Remote Optical Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Optical Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Optical Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

Microelectronics Applications Engineer (remote)

Chelsea Search Group

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Senior Applications Engineer
Position Summary
Seeking a Senior Applications Engineer with deep technical expertise in IC design and characterization with strong technical communication skills to support customer engagements and develop comprehensive product documentation. The ideal candidate will serve as a critical technical bridge between our design teams, customers, and business development organizations.
Key Responsibilities
• Product Documentation & Technical Content
- Create detailed technical specifications, characterization data, and application guidelines
- Develop and maintain comprehensive product datasheets for ASIC and standard product offerings
- Document electrical characteristics, timing diagrams, functional descriptions, and package information
- Ensure all technical documentation meets industry standards and customer requirements
- Produce application notes, design guides, and reference designs that enable customer success
• Customer Technical Support
- Conduct design reviews and offer guidance on IC integration and system-level implementation
- Deliver technical presentations and training to customers and field application engineers
- Provide pre-sales and post-sales technical support to customers and internal teams
- Troubleshoot customer design issues and recommend solutions
• Product Characterization & Validation
- Analyze silicon measurement data and validate performance against specifications
- Define and execute IC characterization test plans across process, voltage, and temperature corners
- Support failure analysis and root cause investigation activities
- Work with design and test engineering teams to optimize product performance
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate with product marketing to define product positioning and competitive advantages
- Contribute to new product definition based on customer feedback and market requirements
-  Interface with IC design teams to understand product features, limitations, and optimal use cases
- Support sales teams with technical expertise during customer engagements
Required Qualifications
• 5+ years of experience in IC applications engineering, design engineering, or related technical role
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field (MS preferred)
• Proven track record of developing technical datasheets and application documentation
Technical Skills
• Ability to translate complex technical concepts into customer-facing content
• Exceptional technical writing skills with ability to create clear, accurate, and comprehensive documentation
• Experience with documentation tools and version control systems
• Experience with lab equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, signal generators, etc.)
• Experience with semiconductor device physics, CMOS technology, and circuit operation
• Familiarity with industry-standard communication interfaces (PCIe, Ethernet, DDR, SerDes, etc.)
• Knowledge of IC packaging, thermal management, and power delivery considerations
• Proficiency in interpreting and analyzing electrical test data and characterization results
• Strong presentation skills for both technical and business audiences
• Strong understanding of digital and/or analog IC design principles
Preferred Qualifications
• Background in system-level design or board-level integration
• Experience supporting government or military programs
• Experience with high-reliability or radiation-hardened IC technologies
• Familiarity with ITAR regulations and defense/aerospace industry requirements
• Knowledge of EDA tools and design flows (Synopsys, Cadence, or Mentor)
• Understanding of ASIC development processes and foundry technologies (GlobalFoundries, Intel, TSMC)
Work Environment
• Collaboration with cross-functional teams across engineering, marketing, and sales
• May require occasional travel to customer sites or industry conferences (10-20%)
• Office-based position with occasional lab work for IC characterization and testing
• Potential for customer-facing activities requiring professional presentation skills
Security Requirements
• Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance may be required for certain programs
• U.S. citizenship required due to ITAR restrictions on technical data
Full-time + Benefits (Health and Dental Insurance, 401K Plan with Profit Sharing, Paid Time Off (PTO), Stock Option Plan)