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Senior Level Optical Engineer Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optikos Corporation

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the ... Mentor junior and mid-level optical engineers in design methodology, laboratory techniques ...

Optikos

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the ... Mentor junior and mid-level optical engineers in design methodology, laboratory techniques ...

Amentum

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Odon, IN

$80K - $120K/yr

We are currently looking for a Mid-Level Optical Engineer to support the design, integration, and testing of advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems across maritime, airborne, and ...

Amentum

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

We are currently looking for a Mid-Level Optical Engineer to support the design, integration, and testing of advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems across maritime, airborne, and ...

Amentum

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Odon, IN

$80K - $120K/yr

We are currently looking for a Mid-Level Optical Engineer to support the design, integration, and testing of advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems across maritime, airborne, and ...

Pae

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Odon, IN

$80K - $120K/yr

We are currently looking for a Mid-Level Optical Engineer to support the design, integration, and testing of advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems across maritime, airborne, and ...

QCi

$141K - $182K/yr

This role combines hands-on laboratory work with system-level optical design, supporting products ... Master's or PhD degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or equivalent experience. * 3-5 ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Senior Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$113K - $155K/yr

Senior Optical Engineer The Hardware Engineering Group at QuEra Computing is seeking strong ... To accomplish this mission, we are looking to hire a candidate with graduate-level education in ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Senior Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$113K - $155K/yr

Senior Optical Engineer The Hardware Engineering Group at QuEra Computing is seeking strong ... To accomplish this mission, we are looking to hire a candidate with graduate-level education in ...

Applied Physics

Senior Electro-Optical Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$117K - $153K/yr

... PhD. Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; or ... Work with Systems Engineering to perform system level design and decomposition into optical system ...

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All JobsSenior Level Optical Engineer Phd Jobs

Senior Level Optical Engineer Phd information

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$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior level optical engineer phd jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior level optical engineer phd in the United States is $126,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Level Optical Engineer Phd vs Optical Systems Engineer?

AspectSenior Level Optical Engineer PhdOptical Systems Engineer
CredentialsPhD in optics, physics, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in optical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, advanced development teamsDesign, integration, and testing of optical systems in industry settings
Industry UsageResearch institutions, high-tech companies, aerospace, defenseConsumer electronics, telecommunications, medical devices

Senior Level Optical Engineer Phd roles typically involve advanced research, development, and innovation, leveraging deep theoretical knowledge. Optical Systems Engineers focus more on practical design, implementation, and testing of optical systems. Both roles may overlap in industry but differ mainly in their focus on research versus application.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Senior Level Optical Engineer PhD, and how can candidates prepare to address them?

Senior Level Optical Engineers with a PhD often encounter complex challenges, such as designing cutting-edge optical systems within tight specifications, leading multidisciplinary teams, and troubleshooting advanced technical issues. Staying current with the latest research and simulation tools, as well as honing project management and communication skills, can be vital to success. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic environment where collaboration with electrical, mechanical, and software engineers is essential, and where mentoring junior team members is often a key responsibility.

What does a Senior Level Optical Engineer with a PhD do?

A Senior Level Optical Engineer with a PhD designs, develops, and tests advanced optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, fiber optics, and imaging devices. They lead research and development projects, analyze complex optical phenomena, and use simulation tools to optimize system performance. Additionally, they often mentor junior engineers, publish research, and contribute to strategic decisions in product development, especially in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, defense, and biomedical devices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Level Optical Engineer PhD, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Level Optical Engineer PhD, you need deep expertise in optical physics, lens design, and photonics, supported by a doctoral degree in optics or a related discipline. Mastery of optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), simulation tools, and familiarity with industry standards are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, project leadership, and excellent communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for advancing complex optical systems, leading innovation, and ensuring project success in cutting-edge technology environments.

Optical Engineer - Augmented Reality (AR)

Coda Octopus Colmek

Murray, UT • On-site

$121K - $156K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Full Listing
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Team: Hardware / Optics / AR
Experience Level: Mid-Senior
Role Overview
Coda Octopus Engineering Inc., a division of Coda Octopus Group, is a certified small business in search of an Optical Engineer (OE) to design, prototype, and optimize optical systems for next-generation Augmented Reality (AR) devices. In this role, the OE will develop and evaluate optical architectures that deliver high-quality visual experiences within compact wearable systems. This role will collaborate closely with hardware, display, mechanical, and perception teams to translate advanced optical concepts into manufacturable AR products.
Responsibilities
  • Design and develop AR optical systems, including waveguides, combiners, freeform optics, projection optics, and illumination paths.
  • Perform optical simulations using tools such as Zemax, Code V, or LightTools.
  • Optimize image quality metrics including MTF, distortion, eyebox, field of view, brightness, and efficiency.
  • Work with microdisplays (LCOS, OLED, MicroLED) and evaluate their integration into AR optical architectures.
  • Build and test optical prototypes to validate performance and identify design improvements.
  • Define optical tolerances and collaborate with mechanical engineering on packaging constraints.
  • Develop optical test setups and measurement procedures.
  • Work with manufacturing partners to transition optical designs into production.
  • Troubleshoot system-level optical issues in integrated AR hardware.
Required Qualifications
  • MS or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, Applied Optics, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of experience designing imaging or display optics.
  • Strong experience with optical design and simulation software (Zemax, Code V, or equivalent).
  • Knowledge of geometrical optics, physical optics, polarization, and stray light analysis.
  • Experience with optical lab equipment (interferometers, spectrometers, beam profilers, etc.).
  • Ability to prototype and test optical systems.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with AR/VR optical architectures (waveguides, holographic optics, pancake lenses, birdbath optics, freeform optics).
  • Familiarity with diffractive optics, metasurfaces, or holographic optical elements.
  • Experience working with near-eye displays (NED).
  • Knowledge of human vision and display perception.
  • Experience transitioning optics from prototype to manufacturing.
What Success Looks Like
  • Deliver optical designs that balance performance, size, efficiency, and manufacturability.
  • Enable immersive AR visual quality with wide field of view, large eyebox, and minimal artifacts.
  • Collaborate across teams to ship integrated AR hardware systems.
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Paid time off

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