1

Senior Optical Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Hardware Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$107K - $143K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Hardware Engineer The Sr. Hardware Engineer designs and supports high‑reliability ... Fiber optic interface design experience, including optical transceivers and related circuitry.

New

Sr. Hardware Engineer SoC/CPU

Raleigh, NC

$107K - $143K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Hardware Engineer The Sr. Hardware Engineer designs and supports high‑reliability ... Fiber optic interface design experience, including optical transceivers and related circuitry.

New

Senior Electrical Engineer, Power Systems

Durham, NC · On-site

$103K - $135K/yr

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... Senior Electrical Engineer, Power Systems that may be located in Charlotte, NC; Durham, NC; or ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Apex, NC

$80K - $105K/yr

... casings, optical windows, displays, buttons, ambient light shields, and biocompatible skin ... S in Mechanical or Biomedical Engineering or a related field Eight or more years industry ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Apex, NC · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

... casings, optical windows, displays, buttons, ambient light shields, and biocompatible skin ... S. in Mechanical or Biomedical Engineering or a related field Eight or more years industry ...

ROCKWOOL is seeking a Sr. Electrical Engineer to join our Group Technology team! This position ... Optical network layout for below: * Rocknet * Process control system * Room schedule (together with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Senior Optical Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$57.8K

$123K

$178.4K

How much do senior optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior optical engineer in Raleigh, NC is $123,024.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,600.00 and $139,500.00 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.

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, and why are they important?

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 most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Senior Optical Engineer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Senior Optical Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Optical Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $123,024 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Applications Engineer - Senior

Job Description:

Our customer applications require high speed (GHz) ICs for optical media access and signal transport. These applications are characterized by international development, fast design cycles, and demanding analog performance. 

 

Specific Responsibilities:

 

Specialize in MACOM's High Performance Analog ICs and their specific applications. Provide expert level engineering support to customers, sales, FAEs, and marketing. Work with design engineering to produce product documentation and applications collateral.  As a product specialist, solve challenging problems through analysis and hands-on lab work.