Optical Engineer
$120K - $200K/yr
The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance. Responsibilities: * Design ...
Optical Engineer
$120K - $200K/yr
The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance. Responsibilities: * Design ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Lorton, VA · On-site
Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Lorton, VA · On-site
Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Lorton, VA · On-site
$130K - $168K/yr
QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense-oriented programs through ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Lorton, VA · On-site
$130K - $168K/yr
QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense-oriented programs through ...
Optical Engineer
$120K - $200K/yr
The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance. Responsibilities: * Design ...
Optical Engineer
$120K - $200K/yr
The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance. Responsibilities: * Design ...
The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance. Responsibilities: * Design ...
Quick apply
The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance. Responsibilities: * Design ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Lorton, VA · On-site
Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Lorton, VA · On-site
Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...
Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...
Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...
Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...
Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...
Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...
Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...
Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...
Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...
Principal Optical Engineer - Optronics (Onsite)
Carlsbad, CA · On-site
$133K - $173K/yr
Not Required Principal Optical Engineer - Optronics (Onsite) At RTX, the world largest aerospace ... This role serves as a senior technical leader within a multidisciplinary environment, working ...
Principal Optical Engineer - Optronics (Onsite)
Carlsbad, CA · On-site
$133K - $173K/yr
Not Required Principal Optical Engineer - Optronics (Onsite) At RTX, the world largest aerospace ... This role serves as a senior technical leader within a multidisciplinary environment, working ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Los Alamos, NM · On-site
We are seeking to hire an established principal engineer who would strengthen NNSS leadership in all aspects of optical design and optical engineering in our Nevada National Security Sites (NNSS) Los ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Los Alamos, NM · On-site
We are seeking to hire an established principal engineer who would strengthen NNSS leadership in all aspects of optical design and optical engineering in our Nevada National Security Sites (NNSS) Los ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Irvine, CA · On-site
$175K - $195K/yr
To manufacture these products, Systems Irvine is seeking individuals like you to join our team as Principal Optical Engineer. In this position, you will provide technical leadership in the design and ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Irvine, CA · On-site
$175K - $195K/yr
To manufacture these products, Systems Irvine is seeking individuals like you to join our team as Principal Optical Engineer. In this position, you will provide technical leadership in the design and ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Irvine, CA · Hybrid
$175K - $195K/yr
To manufacture these products, Systems Irvine is seeking individuals like you to join our team as Principal Optical Engineer. In this position, you will provide technical leadership in the design and ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Irvine, CA · Hybrid
$175K - $195K/yr
To manufacture these products, Systems Irvine is seeking individuals like you to join our team as Principal Optical Engineer. In this position, you will provide technical leadership in the design and ...
Eng Sr Prin - Optical
Merrimack, NH · On-site
$132K - $226K/yr
BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Senior Principal Optical Engineer II to join our EO/IR Capability Group . This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto ...
Eng Sr Prin - Optical
Merrimack, NH · On-site
$132K - $226K/yr
BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Senior Principal Optical Engineer II to join our EO/IR Capability Group . This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto ...
Principal Optical Engineer
El Segundo, CA · On-site
$137K - $177K/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 ...
Principal Optical Engineer
El Segundo, CA · On-site
$137K - $177K/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 ...
Principal Optical Engineer
El Segundo, CA · On-site
$137K - $177K/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 ...
Principal Optical Engineer
El Segundo, CA · On-site
$137K - $177K/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 ...
Principal Optical Engineer
El Segundo, CA · On-site
$137K - $177K/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 ...
Principal Optical Engineer
El Segundo, CA · On-site
$137K - $177K/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 ...
Senior AI&T Engineer II/Principal - Optical
$118K - $163K/yr
SENIOR AI&T ENGINEER II/PRINCIPAL - OPTICAL Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) challenges for ...
Quick apply
Senior AI&T Engineer II/Principal - Optical
$118K - $163K/yr
SENIOR AI&T ENGINEER II/PRINCIPAL - OPTICAL Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) challenges for ...
Optical Engineer Level 5
San Diego, CA · On-site
$137K - $177K/yr
Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Senior Principal Optical Engineer. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands-on role ...
Quick apply
Optical Engineer Level 5
San Diego, CA · On-site
$137K - $177K/yr
Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Senior Principal Optical Engineer. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands-on role ...
Senior Principal Optical Engineer information
See salary details
$82K - $94K
7% of jobs
$94K - $106.1K
4% of jobs
$106.1K - $118.1K
5% of jobs
$127.8K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$118.1K - $130.2K
10% of jobs
$130.2K - $142.2K
6% of jobs
The median wage is $152.9K / yr.
$142.2K - $154.3K
19% of jobs
$154.3K - $166.3K
20% of jobs
$169.3K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$166.3K - $178.4K
13% of jobs
$178.4K - $190.4K
6% of jobs
$190.4K - $202.5K
5% of jobs
$202.5K - $214.5K
4% of jobs
$82K
$155.4K
$214.5K
How much do senior principal optical engineer jobs pay per year?
As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior principal optical engineer in the United States is $155,430.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are Senior Principal Optical Engineers?
Senior Principal Optical Engineers are highly experienced professionals who design, develop, and oversee complex optical systems and technologies, such as lenses, lasers, fiber optics, and imaging devices. They typically lead advanced research projects, mentor junior engineers, and provide technical leadership in their organizations. Their expertise is crucial in industries like aerospace, telecommunications, defense, and consumer electronics, where precision and innovation in optics are essential. In addition to technical design, they often collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure product performance and reliability.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Principal Optical Engineer, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Senior Principal Optical Engineer, you need deep expertise in optical design, physics, and engineering principles, typically backed by an advanced degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as Zemax, Code V, MATLAB, and proficiency in simulation, modeling, and prototyping is essential. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for overseeing complex projects and mentoring junior engineers. These abilities ensure the delivery of innovative optical solutions and successful project outcomes in highly technical environments.
What are some of the main challenges a Senior Principal Optical Engineer faces when leading cross-functional projects?
A Senior Principal Optical Engineer often leads complex projects that require coordinating with diverse teams, such as mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing engineers. One common challenge is aligning differing technical requirements and timelines across departments while ensuring that optical performance meets stringent specifications. Effective communication and problem-solving are crucial, as unexpected integration issues or shifting project priorities can arise. Successfully navigating these challenges not only ensures project success but also positions the engineer as a key technical leader within the organization.
What is the difference between Senior Principal Optical Engineer vs Optical Systems Engineer?
| Aspect | Senior Principal Optical Engineer | Optical Systems Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Bachelor's/Master's/PhD in Optical Engineering or related field, professional certifications | Bachelor's/Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field |
| Work Environment | Research labs, R&D departments, product development teams | Design, integration, testing of optical systems in various industries |
| Industry Usage | High-tech, aerospace, defense, telecommunications | Consumer electronics, medical devices, industrial equipment |
The Senior Principal Optical Engineer typically holds advanced degrees and leads complex optical projects, focusing on innovation and technical leadership. Optical Systems Engineers often work on designing and testing optical components and systems, supporting product development. While both roles require strong optical knowledge, the Senior Principal Optical Engineer is more senior, strategic, and research-oriented, whereas the Optical Systems Engineer is more hands-on and implementation-focused.
What cities are hiring for Senior Principal Optical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Principal Optical Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Optical Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Principal Optical Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Principal Optical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Principal Optical Engineer jobs include:
Job description
Overview:
The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance.
Responsibilities:
- Design Metasurface for light manipulation
- Troubleshoot optical issue and provide solution
Requirements:
- Experience of Metasurface structure design or similar
- Experience of diffractive optical device design or similar.
- Proficient in FDTD simulation, and optimization.
- Knowledge of Wave, Fourier and Geometrical optics.
- Good Image/Data analysis skill, by like Matlab, or Python, Excel etc.
- Good communication skills, good at team work.
- Graduate degree and above in the area of optics, physics, EE or related
Annual base salary for this role in California, US is expected to be between $120,600 - $200,200.
Actual pay will be determined on a number of factors such as relevant skills and experience, and
the pay of employees in the similar role.
Actual pay will be determined on a number of factors such as relevant skills and experience, and
the pay of employees in the similar role.
EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability
About Omnivision Technologies
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Software development
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Santa Clara, CA, US
Year founded
1995