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Senior Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Draper

Senior Optical Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$82.30K - $220K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer designs, develops, and tests optical technologies and systems. Develops and implements test procedures while selecting appropriate test instrumentation. Interacts with ...

SpaceX

Sr. Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$131.10K - $169.80K/yr

Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. SR. OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX ...

SpaceX

Sr. Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA

$130.60K - $169.10K/yr

Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. SR. OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX ...

Amentum

Senior Optical Engineer

Odon, IN

$120K - $160K/yr

We are currently looking for a Senior Optical Engineer to support our research and development efforts for the advancement of electro-optical and infrared systems. This position will support the ...

Pae

Senior Optical Engineer

Odon, IN

$104.70K - $143.80K/yr

We are currently looking for a Senior Optical Engineer to support our research and development efforts for the advancement of electro-optical and infrared systems. This position will support the ...

Amentum

Senior Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$104.70K - $143.80K/yr

We are currently looking for a Senior Optical Engineer to support our research and development efforts for the advancement of electro-optical and infrared systems. This position will support the ...

Intellectt INC

Senior Optical Engineer

Princeton, NJ · On-site

MS or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field. * 5+ years of experience in optical system design (or equivalent PhD research experience). * Strong knowledge of Zemax (or similar optical ...

Amentum

Senior Optical Engineer

Odon, IN

$104.70K - $143.80K/yr

We are currently looking for a Senior Optical Engineer to support our research and development efforts for the advancement of electro-optical and infrared systems. This position will support the ...

Raytheon

Senior Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$137.40K - $177.90K/yr

Raytheon in El Segundo, CA seeks an Optical Engineer willing to apply their interest, training, and knowledge to optical design, analysis, assembly, integration, and test. Our Space Optics Department ...

Raytheon Technologies

Senior Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$137.40K - $177.90K/yr

Raytheon in El Segundo, CA seeks an Optical Engineer willing to apply their interest, training, and knowledge to optical design, analysis, assembly, integration, and test. Our Space Optics Department ...

Leidos

Senior Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA

$110.90K - $152.40K/yr

The Emerging Space Systems division at Leidos currently has an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to work in our San Diego, CA office. This is an exciting opportunity to use your experience to ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr - Optical

Merrimack, NH · On-site

$97.01K - $164.91K/yr

The Senior Optical Design Engineer will develop and mature advanced EO/IR system concepts. Work will support development of next-generation Precision Pointers, Laser Systems, Imaging Systems, and ...

Google

Senior Optical Engineer, XR

San Jose, CA · On-site

$122.50K - $168.20K/yr

About the job As a Senior Optical Engineer with experience in optics and display hardware development, you will lead the development and manufacturing of cutting-edge optical systems. You will be ...

Onto

Senior Optical Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$128K - $192K/yr

Build and align prototype optical systems in the lab, including laser and detector characterization. * Collaboration:Work with mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering teams to transition ...

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All JobsSenior Optical Engineer Jobs

Senior Optical Engineer information

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$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior optical engineer 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 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 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 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.

More about Senior Optical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Optical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Optical Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Optical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Optical Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Senior Optical Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Optical Engineer jobs are:
Senior Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 47% Physical, and 53% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.
Sr. Optical Engineer (San Diego, CA)

Sr. Optical Engineer (San Diego, CA)

Malin Space Science Systems

San Diego, CA • On-site

$140/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Malin Space Science Systems (MSSS) is a private technology company that designs, develops and operates space camera systems for government and commercial aerospace customers and provides services in spacecraft instrument operations and space science research. The Camera Systems Group (CSG) seeks a Sr. Optical Engineer with experience designing and building visible, infrared, and UV optics for camera systems, managing optics subcontracts, developing and executing optical calibration and metrology procedures, and solving challenging optics measurement problems.
The Sr. Optical Engineer works with Project Managers, Systems Engineers, and customer teams to specify, scope, design, produce, and verify optics to mission requirements. They identify and help solve design challenges associated with the harsh environments of launch and operation in interplanetary space and during encounters with celestial bodies for both robotic and human spaceflight. The Sr. Optical Engineer manages subcontracts for optical parts, materials, coatings, and assemblies and the development of in-house production and test capabilities.
Essential Functions
  • Specifies optical systems for high-level mission requirements
  • Completes initial conceptual and detailed flight designs of camera optics
  • Manages glass availability through production lifecycles
  • Designs for athermalization and stray light minimization
  • Completes Structural-Thermal-Optical-Performance (STOP) Analysis
  • Develops calibration plans to verify mission requirements, including but not limited to focus/MTF, flat field imaging, radiometry and spectral response, distortion/camera models, boresight alignment
  • Writes performance specification and statements of work for optical subcontracts
  • Manages subcontractors for performance of optical processing, fabrication, and assembly
  • Presents at design reviews
  • Prior to entering assembly, test, storage or development areas within the Camera Systems Group unescorted, receive initial and ongoing annual training in the fundamentals of Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)

Pay Range: $140-165K
Non-Essential Functions
  • Performs other duties as required which may become essential functions

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Physics; Masters or PhD preferred
  • 8-10 years minimum of relevant experience
  • Must have extensive experience using ZEMAX optical design software
  • Familiarity with optics assembly techniques for space-based optical systems
  • Experience with radiation-hardened optical design
  • Experience with collimation measurement techniques
  • Experience with laser interferometric measurement of wavefront error
  • Experience with radiometric calibration
  • Knowledge of visible and infrared sensor physics and performance limitations
  • Experience with boresight alignment and metrology
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of clearly explain technical issues and ideas to peers, management, and customer representatives

Physical Requirements
Must be able to comprehend and communicate complex technical and engineering concepts. Must be able to remain in a stationary position while operating a computer for prolonged periods of time. Ability to work and move around in a cleanroom environment, wearing required outer garments including smock/coveralls, shoe covers, mask, hood and gloves. Moves in and around a lab space. Ability to handle high stress levels in connection with multiple conflicting priorities and deadlines. High tolerance for ambiguity and shifting expectations. Strong analytical and organizational skills with ability to prioritize workload.
Disclaimer
The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. The Employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.
View MSSS Benefits
MSSS is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of any protected status, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided to individuals who are unable to use this online system due to a disability.
To request a reasonable accommodation, please contact egomez@msss.com
Department: Camera Systems Group
This is a non-management position
This is a full time position
Pay Range: $140-165K

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