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Sr Optical Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Optical Engineers

East Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$122K - $159K/yr

Optical Engineers - Electro-optic systems * Software Engineers - Embedded, EO/IR (electro-optical ... we have senior level roles as well that require 12+ years experienced with a Bachelor's degree)

Optical Engineers

Scottsville, NY ยท On-site

$121K - $157K/yr

Optical Engineers - Electro-optic systems * Software Engineers - Embedded, EO/IR (electro-optical ... we have senior level roles as well that require 12+ years experienced with a Bachelor's degree)

Optical Engineers

Victor, NY ยท On-site

$123K - $160K/yr

Optical Engineers - Electro-optic systems * Software Engineers - Embedded, EO/IR (electro-optical ... we have senior level roles as well that require 12+ years experienced with a Bachelor's degree)

Optical Engineers

Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

Optical Engineers - Electro-optic systems * Software Engineers - Embedded, EO/IR (electro-optical ... we have senior level roles as well that require 12+ years experienced with a Bachelor's degree)

SR R&D/PRODUCT DVL ENGINEER

Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Join TE Connectivity's innovative Passive Optics organization as a Senior Mechanical Engineer and help design the next generation of precision optical connector systems powering AI and hyperscale ...

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... a Sr. Staff Engineer, Optomechanical at our technology center in Rochester, NY . This role ...

Optical Technician

Victor, NY ยท On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... Follow engineering drawings, manufacturing instructions, procedures, process specifications ... We are open to hiring entry level, mid-level, or senior level candidate. Benefits: Medical, Dental ...

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... a Sr. Staff Engineer, Optomechanical at our technology center in Rochester, NY . This role ...

Senior Process & Systems Engineer

Fairport, NY ยท On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... an experienced Senior Process & System Engineer to lead the development, scale-up, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Sr Optical Engineer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$81.9K

$141.7K

$166.3K

How much do sr optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr optical engineer in Rochester, NY is $141,696.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $164,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Sr Optical Engineers?

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, and why are they important?

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 Rochester, NY? For Sr Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sr Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Sr Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
Infographic showing various Sr Optical Engineer job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $141,696 per year, or $68.1 per hour.
Optical Engineers

Optical Engineers

L3Harris Technologies

East Rochester, NY โ€ข On-site

$122K - $159K/yr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customersโ€™ mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customersโ€™ mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

L3Harris Engineering Hiring Event in Rochester, New York.

Overview:

Join our team that's not merely aiming for the stars โ€” we're actively sculpting the future of space, cyber, air, and sea technology! Our expanding teams in Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Project Engineering are dedicated to influencing the trajectory of these critical domains. We engage with every product and service provided, fostering a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that harnesses problem-solving skills, creativity, and data analytics to confront the industry's most thrilling challenges, all while contributing to the security of our nation.

Date: Wednesday, August 12 

Time: 2:00 - 5:30pm

Location: Will be provided in invite

Please note, this event is not for recent or new college graduates.

Opportunities at L3Harris:

  • Optical Engineers โ€“ Electro-optic systems
  • Software Engineers โ€“ Embedded, EO/IR (electro-optical/infra-red) solutions, control system modeling, Linux
  • Systems Engineers โ€“ System Architectures, model-based systems engineering
  • Electrical Engineers โ€“ FPGA, multi-spectral imaging systems, circuit card design support
  • Mechanical Engineers - CAD design, EO/IR (electro-optical/infra-red) solutions, exp with electromechanical and opto-mechanical components and systems, engineering analysis for both structural/thermal
  • Manufacturing Engineers
  • Program Managers: prior A&D experience
  • Project Engineers
  • Engineering Technicians

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of a Bachelorโ€™s degree 3+ years experience in your field OR an additional 4 years in lieu of a degree (we have senior level roles as well that require 12+ years experienced with a Bachelorโ€™s degree)
  • An active DoD Security Clearance or ability to obtain one which requires US Citizenship and a detailed background investigation
  • Relevant experience within aerospace, defense, or technology industries.

Benefits of Joining L3Harris:

  • Innovative Projects: Contribute to pioneering advancements in space systems technology.
  • Global Impact: Work on projects with far-reaching global influence.
  • Professional Development: Thrive in a collaborative workplace that promotes career advancement.
  • Compensation & Flexibility: Receive robust compensation, flexible work arrangements, and a full spectrum of benefits.
  • Dedication to Excellence: Join a team dedicated to innovation where your work contributes to the greater good in defense, aerospace, and beyond.
  • 9/80 work schedule: Every other Friday off!

Click 'APPLY NOW' to register for this event. Should we have opportunities that align with your background weโ€™ll send you an invite with details about the event.

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.