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Senior Optical Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

The Engineer will provide remote and on-site support services across North America, focusing on ... SR vs LR Optics). • Ability to properly terminate and test CAT5 and CAT6 cables (Keystones ...

They have extensive experience partnering with networking silicon vendors, OEMs, ODMs, and optical ... with senior leadership. * Foster a culture of engineering excellence, continuous improvement ...

... optic deployments, wireless infrastructure builds, and largescale network upgrades. You will be ... Education in Construction Management, Telecommunications, Engineering, or a related field (bachelor ...

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Senior Optical Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$54K

$114.9K

$166.5K

How much do senior optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior optical engineer in Tennessee is $114,865.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,800.00 and $130,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Optical Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectSenior Optical EngineerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; 5+ years experienceBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; 1-3 years experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, R&D departmentsDesign, testing, and development in labs or production settings
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, aerospace, defense, medical devicesOptical product companies, research institutions, manufacturing

Senior Optical Engineers typically have more experience and responsibilities, including leading projects and mentoring. Optical Engineers focus on designing and testing optical systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in experience level and scope of work.

Are senior optical engineers in high demand?

Senior optical engineers are in high demand due to the growth of industries such as telecommunications, aerospace, and medical devices that rely on advanced optical systems. Their expertise in designing, testing, and optimizing optical components and systems is critical, and strong skills in optics, photonics, and related software increase employability across various high-tech sectors.

What are the typical collaboration opportunities for a senior optical engineer within multidisciplinary teams?

As a Senior Optical Engineer, you will frequently collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to develop and integrate optical systems into larger products. This role often involves working closely with project managers to align technical requirements and timelines, as well as coordinating with manufacturing teams to ensure prototypes are feasible and scalable. Effective cross-functional communication and a proactive approach to problem-solving are key, as you may also contribute to design reviews and mentor junior engineers. These collaborations not only support project success but also provide valuable exposure to diverse technical perspectives, fostering ongoing professional growth.

What does a senior optical engineer do?

A Senior Optical Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They often work on projects involving fiber optics, sensors, and advanced photonics technologies. Senior Optical Engineers lead technical teams, troubleshoot complex optical issues, and collaborate with other engineers to integrate optical solutions into larger systems. Their expertise is essential in industries like telecommunications, medical devices, aerospace, and consumer electronics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior optical engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Optical Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of optics, physics, and optical system design, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field and several years of industry experience. Expertise with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and familiarity with relevant standards and certifications are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication set top candidates apart, especially when leading teams or interfacing with clients. These skills ensure the development of innovative, precise optical solutions that meet technical and business objectives.
What are popular job titles related to Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Tennessee? For Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Senior Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Senior Optical Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Optical Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,865 per year, or $55.2 per hour.

Engineer: Tier 1 (On-site)

Trace3

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Trace3 is a leading Transformative IT Authority, providing unique technology solutions and consulting services to clients. The Engineer will provide remote and on-site support services across North America, focusing on physical infrastructure design, installation, and wireless network optimization.
Responsibilities:
• Accurately document network infrastructure and design.
• Perform systems engineering, design, analysis, and experimentation of wireless networks.
• Plan, design, engineer, configure, maintain, defend, troubleshoot, and repair classified and unclassified wireless LANs, including wireless access points and their interconnection to the wired infrastructure.
• Provide recommendations for wireless network optimization, additions, and upgrades to meet requirements.
• Perform RF coverage studies, throughput testing, and wireless site surveys.
• Conduct a root cause analysis of communication issues.
• Lead/assist with proof-of-concept trials with new technologies.
• Develop and maintain standards, reports, and various other types of documentation.
• Determine Wireless Access Point (WAP) placement to optimize coverage across various client environments.
• Conduct client-facing meetings (in person/virtual) in a professional manner.
• Maintain a high level of customer satisfaction.
• Identify building structural components to safely and securely accommodate wall-mounted infrastructure.
• Installation and decommission of all types of enterprise-level equipment and infrastructure in various types of environments.
• Configure various devices (laptops, desktops, servers, switches) with static IP addresses, subnets, gateways, and DNS servers.
• Research/resolve unforeseen problems with little to no consultation.
• Provide guidance and shadowing opportunities for lower-level technicians to ensure adherence to best practices.
• Perform firmware and/or BIOS updates on server, storage, and networking hardware platforms.
• Support lower-level peers in performing crisis management in the event of critical situations or major service outages.
• Provide remote console access to various devices via WebEx, Teams, or Zoom screen sharing.
• Perform basic or pre-defined tasks as directed by the team lead.
• Actively participate during the service transition phase to perform knowledge transfer and documentation.
• Review, report, and maintain accurate records, document all issues/concerns, and submit to the client.
• Assist in performing root cause analysis.
• Determine when/if escalation to leadership is necessary.
• May perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Follow the company's best practices and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Travel is required for physical network installation and configuration.
Qualifications:
Required:
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in enterprise-level network design and support, including: IEEE 802.1, WAN/LAN, optimization, load balancing, routing, switching, QOS, TCP/IP, P2P, and P2MP wireless equipment, with hands-on experience administering Cisco wireless access points and controllers.
• A valid driver's license is required.
• Ability to conduct clear and concise communication in English (written and verbal).
• Strong attention to detail and quality.
• Thorough understanding of subnetting (Ex, 255.255.255.0 = /24).
• Thorough understanding of console connectivity and OOB management.
• Ability to identify power circuits and circuit breakers.
• Ability to properly identify various device port assignments.
• Ability to identify various power receptacle types (NEMA 5-15, C13/14/15, C19/20, L5-20, L6-30, etc.).
• Ability to properly identify various device port types (RJ45-Console, DB9, SFP, RJ45 Ethernet).
• Ability to properly identify various fiber optic cables and optics (LC, SC, FC, Single Mode, Multimode, SR vs LR Optics).
• Ability to properly terminate and test CAT5 and CAT6 cables (Keystones, punch down panels, and ends).
• Ability to properly run power/data cables, label and dress to Trace3 standards.
• Thorough comprehension of fiber and copper patch panel function and A-Z port identification.
• Ability to travel domestically up to 85% - 90% of the time.
Preferred:
• Prior MSP experience desired.
• Thorough understanding of Ekahau Pro Suite and Sidekick functionality.
• CompTIA A+ certification preferred.
• CompTIA Network+ and Cisco CCNA certifications (or equivalent experience preferred).
Company:
Trace3 is a technology consultancy that provides IT strategies, business transformation solutions, and services for the clients. Founded in 2002, the company is headquartered in Irvine, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.