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

NCSU

Post-Award Specialist

Raleigh, NC

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... and Engineering About the Department The Department of Materials Science and Engineering at NC ... dielectric, optical, magnetic, energy and structural materials, metallurgy, nanoscience ...

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All JobsSr Optical Engineer JobsSr Optical Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Sr Optical Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$80.7K

$139.6K

$163.8K

How much do sr optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr optical engineer in Raleigh, NC is $139,601.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,400.00 and $162,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Sr Optical Engineer?

Sr Optical Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and test optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They often lead projects involving optics for industries like telecommunications, aerospace, medical devices, and consumer electronics. Senior Optical Engineers also collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams, oversee the integration of optical technologies, and provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior staff. Their work ensures the performance, reliability, and innovation of optical products and systems.

What types of projects and cross-functional collaboration can a Sr Optical Engineer expect in their role?

As a Sr Optical Engineer, you can expect to work on projects involving the design, testing, and integration of optical systems for products such as imaging devices, sensors, or communication equipment. Collaboration with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers is common to ensure that optical components seamlessly integrate with other subsystems. You may also interact with product managers and manufacturing teams to meet technical requirements and production timelines. Regular communication and teamwork are essential, especially when troubleshooting system-level issues or optimizing performance across disciplines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sr Optical Engineer?

To thrive as a Sr Optical Engineer, you need deep expertise in optical design, physics, and engineering principles, typically supported by an advanced degree in optics or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Zemax, Code V, MATLAB, and optical simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards and certifications, is essential. Strong problem-solving, project management, and collaboration skills help drive innovation and effective teamwork. These competencies are vital for delivering high-performance optical systems and leading complex projects to successful outcomes.

What is the difference between Sr Optical Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectSr 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, telecommunicationsOptical component manufacturers, research institutions

The main difference between a Sr Optical Engineer and an Optical Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and seniority. A Sr Optical Engineer typically has more years of experience, takes on leadership roles, and oversees complex projects, whereas an Optical Engineer is often in the early to mid-career stage focusing on design and testing tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Sr Optical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Sr Optical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sr Optical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Sr Optical Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Sr Optical Engineer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Sr Optical Engineer job openings:
Sr Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sr Optical Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,601 per year, or $67.1 per hour.

Post-Award Specialist

NCSU

Raleigh, NC

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

458th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Information
Posting Number PG194108EP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Post-Award Specialist Anticipated Hiring Range $57,403 - $62,830 Work Schedule Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM -5:00 PM Job Location Raleigh, NC Department Department of Materials Science and Engineering About the Department
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering at NC State is recognized as one of the premier national and international academic and research programs. The Department contains 24 tenure/tenure-track faculty members, 3 teaching faculty, 21 postdoctoral scholars and senior researchers, and about 250 graduate and undergraduate students. The faculty perform cutting- edge research, teach and provide international leadership in broad areas of materials research, including electronic, dielectric, optical, magnetic, energy and structural materials, metallurgy, nanoscience/nanotechnology, soft matter, biological materials, structural characterization, energy storage and computational materials.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being.

What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!
Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community. 
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
As a Post-Award Contracts and Grants Specialist, you will play a vital role in supporting groundbreaking research by managing the financial and administrative side of sponsored projects-from grant setup through closeout.
In this role, you will ensure the integrity and compliance of research funding by working closely with faculty, department staff, and central university offices. Your attention to detail and ability to navigate complex regulations will directly support the department's mission to drive discovery and collaboration at the highest level.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Oversee the full post-award lifecycle for grants and contracts in the MSE department.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, university, and sponsor-specific regulations.
  • Monitor project expenditures and reconcile accounts to maintain fiscal accuracy.
  • Prepare financial reports and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Coordinate and process award modifications, no-cost extensions, and budget revisions.
  • Serve as a resource for PIs, providing guidance on allowable costs and project budgeting.
  • Liaise with the Office of Contracts and Grants and other university units to resolve issues and support best practices in research administration.
If you're excited by the opportunity to support high-impact research and ensure its success behind the scenes, we encourage you to apply.
You Belong Here! At NC State, our goal is for all employees to reach their fullest potential at work. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition (https://news.hr.ncsu.edu/you-belong-here/) and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

Other Responsibilities
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree and one year of experience related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience
Other Required Qualifications
  • Proven ability to analyze financial data and monitor budgets to ensure accurate spending and compliance with award terms.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of federal, state, university, and sponsor regulations to ensure grant management meets all compliance standards.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills to clearly convey complex information to faculty, staff, and funding agencies.
  • Experience resolving complex post-award issues, including budget revisions, cost transfers, and award modifications.
  • Ability to manage 10+ active projects simultaneously while maintaining organized and accurate financial records.
  • Effective team collaborator with a track record of building strong working relationships across departments.
  • Strong commitment to providing timely, solution-focused support to faculty and research staff.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience managing post-award grant and contract activities in a university setting to ensure compliance and timely reporting.
  • Proficiency in using financial and research systems (e.g., PeopleSoft Financials, PINS, Research.gov) to manage awards and track spending accurately.
  • Experience preparing for and responding to audits, ensuring documentation is complete and aligned with sponsor and institutional requirements.
  • Experience using research administration platforms such as NSF FastLane, NIH ASSIST, or NC State's RED system.
Required License(s) or Certification(s)
NA
Valid NC Driver's License required No Commercial Driver's License required No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date 05/23/2025 Anticipated Close Date Open Until Filled Special Instructions to Applicants
Please include a resume, cover letter and contact information for at least three professional references. 
Position Details
Position Number 00102164 Position Type EPS/SAAO Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.0 Appointment 12 Month Recurring Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Non Mandatory - Emergency Event Department ID 140801 - Materials Science &Engineering EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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About North Carolina State University

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North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887

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