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Senior Optical Engineer Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Senior Principal Optical Engineer to join our EO/IR Capability Group . This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical ...

Senior Optical DC Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

Responsibilities Collaborate with engineers from L1 optical engineering team, network design, delivery and AI Ops, DC Ops, and DC build teams and program/project managers to develop milestones and ...

Senior Optical DC Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

... optical transceivers for interconnects for leaf‑spine RDMA cluster networks at the L0/L1 physical layer1 and L2 protocol level coupled with troubleshooting and automation/programming skills. As OCI ...

Senior Optical Network Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Collaborate with engineers from L1 optical engineering team, network design, delivery and AI Ops, DC Ops, and DC build teams and program/project managers to develop milestones and deliverables ...

Optical Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$65 - $95/hr

Instead of traditional electronic circuits, we use silicon photonics and an active, programmable ... Hands‑on experience in an optics laboratory - undergraduate research, senior design, internship ...

Optical Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Instead of traditional electronic circuits, we use silicon photonics and an active, programmable ... Hands-on experience in an optics laboratory - undergraduate research, senior design, internship, or ...

Senior Optical DC Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Career Level - IC4 Collaborate with engineers from L1 optical engineering team, network design, delivery and AI Ops, DC Ops, and DC build teams and program/project managers to develop milestones and ...

Senior Optical Network Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Collaborate with engineers from L1 optical engineering team, network design, delivery and AI Ops, DC Ops, and DC build teams and program/project managers to develop milestones and deliverables ...

Senior Optical DC Engineer

Austin, TX

$103K - $141K/yr

Career Level - IC4 Collaborate with engineers from L1 optical engineering team, network design, delivery and AI Ops, DC Ops, and DC build teams and program/project managers to develop milestones and ...

Senior Optical Network Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Collaborate with engineers from L1 optical engineering team, network design, delivery and AI Ops, DC Ops, and DC build teams and program/project managers to develop milestones and deliverables ...

Senior Optical Network Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Collaborate with engineers from L1 optical engineering team, network design, delivery and AI Ops, DC Ops, and DC build teams and program/project managers to develop milestones and deliverables ...

Senior Optical DC Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Career Level - IC4 Collaborate with engineers from L1 optical engineering team, network design, delivery and AI Ops, DC Ops, and DC build teams and program/project managers to develop milestones and ...

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Laser Engineers to join our EO/IR Capability Group . This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical and Laser ...

Senior Perception Hardware Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$109K - $146K/yr

JOB SUMMARY As a Senior Perception Hardware Engineer focusing on Sensor Calibration , you will own ... You will be the resident expert on optical physics, 3D geometry, and sensor precision. ESSENTIAL ...

JOB SUMMARY As a Senior Perception Hardware Engineer focusing on Sensor Calibration , you will own ... You will be the resident expert on optical physics, 3D geometry, and sensor precision. ESSENTIAL ...

Senior Perception Hardware Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$109K - $146K/yr

JOB SUMMARY As a Senior Perception Hardware Engineer focusing on Sensor Calibration , you will own ... You will be the resident expert on optical physics, 3D geometry, and sensor precision. ESSENTIAL ...

Senior ASIC Design Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Atom Computing is seeking a Senior ASIC Designer to design and develop a digital signal processing ... Work closely with Atom Computing's quantum physicists, optical engineers, hardware and software ...

Atom Computing is seeking a Senior ASIC Designer to design and develop a digital signal processing ... Work closely with Atom Computing's quantum physicists, optical engineers, hardware and software ...

Atom Computing is seeking a Senior ASIC Designer to design and develop a digital signal processing ... Work closely with Atom Computing's quantum physicists, optical engineers, hardware and software ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Optical Engineer information

See Austin, TX salary details

$59K

$125.4K

$181.8K

How much do senior optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior optical engineer in Austin, TX is $125,414.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,600.00 and $142,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Austin, TX?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Austin, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Austin, TX?

For Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Austin, TX are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Senior Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Senior Optical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Optical Engineer job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 49% In-person, and 51% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,444 per year, or $60.3 per hour.

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX • On-site


BAE Systems
National Security and International Affairs • 10K+ employees

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$127K - $165K/yr

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description


Thank you for your interest in BAE Systems! This opening is included as part of our June 2026 Countermeasure & Electromagnetic Attack Solutions Engineering Hiring Event. While we encourage all interested professionals to apply, please note that this is a selection-based interview event for candidates whose skills and experience match our hiring needs. If your background and skill set match these needs, we will reach out with next steps. If selected for an interview, specific opportunities based on your interests, experience, and skill set will be discussed with the hiring team. For candidates not local to the southern NH or Austin, TX areas, virtual interviews will be accommodated.
BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Senior Principal Optical Engineer to join our EO/IR Capability Group. This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical and Laser specialists dedicated to developing innovative hardware solutions that drive the success of our program portfolio.
BAE Systems is experiencing continued growth in our Electro-optic/Infrared (EO/IR) markets, and we are seeking experienced, highly motivated Engineers to join our team. The qualified applicants will support assignments in EO/IR systems, precision pointing, Lens design and other complex EO/IR product design/development at our southern New Hampshire locations. At BAE Systems we design, develop and manufacture highly sophisticated EO/IR solutions that service a variety of product areas for government and commercial applications.
The Senior Principal Optical Engineer will develop and mature advanced EO system concepts. This will include the design, analysis, and measurement of optical subsystems. Responsibilities include the development of optical subsystem schedule/budgets, design and analysis of optical subsystems, and the testing and validation of prototype assemblies. The work environment is fast-paced and presents many technical challenges as well as significant growth opportunities. Successful technical contributors will be comfortable working in multi-disciplinary teams, present current program work to customers as well as contribute to proposals for new projects.
  • The successful candidate will have an in-depth understanding in one or more of the following: Optics, Laser, Material Science, Precision Pointing, Optical Lens Systems, Imaging Systems
  • Experience designing optical systems, specifically for lens designs and other complex EO/IR optical designs
  • Experience with sensitivity analysis and other optical system analysis
  • Experience Integrating and testing hardware and optical components in a laboratory environment
  • Experience/ability/knowledge working with Focal Plane Arrays (FPA), microbolometers, EO/IR cameras, thermal imaging or sensor technologies
  • Experience presenting proposals/designs to customers (internal and external)
  • Ability to collect, analyze, and document EO/IR hardware requirements
  • Ability to support proposals through labor estimations and written technical plans / architecture.
  • Experience allocating system requirements to subsystem requirements & creating supplier specifications for custom optical designs
  • Willingness to provide manufacturing support for optical imaging test equipment
  • Effective oral and written communication skills, strong interpersonal skills and a positive, can-do attitude

Hybrid: Onsite 3 days per week
About BAE Systems Electronic Systems
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and commercial electronics. Exploiting every electron, we push the limits of what is possible, giving our customers the edge and our employees opportunities to change the world. Our products and capabilities can be found everywhere - from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space. At our core are more than 14,000 highly talented Electronic Systems employees with the brightest minds in the industry, we make an impact - for our customers and the communities we serve.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Required Skills and Education
  • BS degree in Optical Engineering or a related technical field
  • Experience in designing optical subassemblies
  • Experience working with and designing for electro-optical systems
  • Understanding EO/IR Systems

Preferred Skills and Education
  • Ability to obtain a Secret Clearance

BAE Systems logo

About BAE Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world's most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions. We employ a skilled workforce of more than 93,000 in around 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to deliver military capability, protect national security and people, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.

Industry

National security and international affairs and it services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US


What BAE Systems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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