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Senior Optical Imaging Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Alcon MX

Sr. Optical Engineer

Belmont, CA · On-site

$102.85 - $133.10/hr

Senior Optical Engineer** team member. This role is part of Alcon's Engineering function, a team ... imaging performance. You will assist in simulations, validate prototypes, and optimize optical ...

Leidos

Senior Optical Engineer

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging ... imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Leidos

Senior Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging ... imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Leidos

Senior Optical Engineer

Rancho Santa Fe, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging ... imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Leidos

Senior Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging ... imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Leidos

Senior Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging ... imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Leidos

Senior Optical Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging ... imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Leidos

Senior Optical Engineer

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging ... imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Leidos

Senior Optical Engineer

Cardiff By The Sea, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging ... imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Wilcox Industries

Senior Optical Engineer

Portsmouth, NH · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer is a pivotal part of the Wilcox engineering team and is responsible for ... Experience with both laser and imaging optics. * Previous experience in a lead/principal design ...

Leidos

Senior Optical Engineer

National City, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging ... imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Wilcox Industries

Senior Optical Engineer

Newington, NH · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer is a pivotal part of the Wilcox engineering team and is responsible for ... Experience with both laser and imaging optics. * Previous experience in a lead/principal design ...

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Senior Optical Imaging Engineer information

See salary details

$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior optical imaging engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior optical imaging 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 is the difference between Senior Optical Imaging Engineer vs Optical Systems Engineer?

AspectSenior Optical Imaging EngineerOptical Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; experience in optical design and imaging systemsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related; focus on optical system integration
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, medical device companies, imaging technology firmsManufacturing, product development, systems integration in optics and electronics
Industry UsageMedical imaging, defense, scientific instrumentationConsumer electronics, aerospace, industrial inspection

The Senior Optical Imaging Engineer specializes in designing and optimizing imaging systems, often focusing on medical or scientific applications. In contrast, the Optical Systems Engineer has a broader role in integrating optical components into larger systems across various industries. Both roles require strong optical knowledge, but the Senior Optical Imaging Engineer emphasizes imaging performance and quality, while the Optical Systems Engineer concentrates on system integration and functionality.

What are some common challenges a senior optical imaging engineer faces when working on interdisciplinary teams?

Senior Optical Imaging Engineers often collaborate with professionals from fields such as software development, electronics, and mechanical engineering. One common challenge is bridging the communication gap between disciplines, as each team may have different technical vocabularies and priorities. Additionally, aligning project timelines and integrating complex optical systems with hardware and software components require strong project management and problem-solving skills. Successfully navigating these challenges leads to more innovative solutions and personal growth within the role.

What does a senior optical imaging engineer do?

A Senior Optical Imaging Engineer designs, develops, and tests advanced optical systems used in imaging applications, such as cameras, microscopes, or medical devices. They work on the integration of optical components, evaluate system performance, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to meet project requirements. Their expertise helps ensure the optimal function and quality of imaging devices, often involving tasks like lens design, image processing, and troubleshooting complex optical issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior optical imaging engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Optical Imaging Engineer, you need a deep understanding of optical physics, imaging system design, and experience with photonic devices, typically supported by an advanced degree in optics, physics, or engineering. Proficiency with optical modeling software (such as Zemax or Code V), image processing tools, and familiarity with laboratory instrumentation is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure the successful development, optimization, and implementation of advanced imaging solutions in research or commercial environments.
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Senior Optical Imaging Engineer jobs near you

Sr. Optical Engineer

Malin Space Science Systems, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

$140/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 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 

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