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Sr Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Optical Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$82K - $205K/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 ...

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in developing optical payload systems for the Space Force, including missions ...

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in developing optical payload systems for the Space Force, including missions ...

Senior Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in developing optical payload systems for the Space Force, including missions ...

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in developing optical payload systems for the Space Force, including missions ...

Sr Optical Engineer

Denville, NJ ยท On-site

$123K - $160K/yr

This position will report directly to the Sr. Manager, Optical Engineering. Our Special Optics team is a design, development and manufacturing group located in Denville, New Jersey. As an Optical ...

SR. OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts.While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial ...

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in developing optical payload systems for the Space Force, including missions ...

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

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in developing optical payload systems for the Space Force, including missions ...

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in developing optical payload systems for the Space Force, including missions ...

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in developing optical payload systems for the Space Force, including missions ...

Sr. Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$131K - $169K/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 ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Odon, IN ยท Hybrid

$104K - $143K/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. We can accommodate a hybrid ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Sr Optical Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do sr optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr optical engineer in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 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.

More about Sr Optical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Sr Optical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Sr Optical Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Sr Optical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Sr Optical Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Sr Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Senior Optical Engineer

Senior Optical Engineer

Draper

Cambridge, MA โ€ข On-site

$82K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Overview:
Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.
Job Description Summary:
The Senior Optical Engineer designs, develops, and tests optical technologies and systems. Develops and implements test procedures while selecting appropriate test instrumentation. Interacts with hardware and software design teams to determine the qualification and manufacturability of new technologies.
Job Description:
Duties/Responsibilities
โ€ข Designing, analyzing, integrating components with optical devices, and demonstrating device prototypes.
โ€ข Develops, builds and tests systems and products based on optic, photonic and laser technologies.
โ€ข Interacts with device, hardware and software design teams to develop optical systems; specifying, selecting and qualifying active and passive optical components, developing and benchmarking system performance models.
โ€ข Develop and implement test procedures and/or evaluating and selecting appropriate test instrumentation.
โ€ข Provides multi-discipline support to instrumentation production by resolving technical issues associated with components, parts, products or systems.
โ€ข Testing of new and existing designs and documentation of changes through a formal engineering change notification process.
โ€ข Provides recommendations for cost reduction efforts.
โ€ข Applies quantitative analysis in determining root cause of highly technical problems and propose, develop and implement solutions for corrective action.
โ€ข Develops and maintain effective internal/external relationships.
โ€ข Drives solutions to complex problems with limited direction - contribute to requirements development, propose ways forward, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements
โ€ข Able to provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes, and to apply analysis techniques across a range of technical disciplines.
โ€ข Identify program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies for them.
โ€ข Actively mentor less experienced engineers and provide thoughtful, constructive feedback.
โ€ข Performs other related duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
โ€ข Proficiency in digital and analog electronics circuit design, high-performance, real-time embedded firmware development.
โ€ข Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
โ€ข Excellent mathematical skills.
โ€ข Excellent mechanical skills.
โ€ข Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
โ€ข Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
โ€ข Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
โ€ข Ability to prioritize tasks.
โ€ข Thorough understanding of engineering theories and procedures.
Education
Requires a bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field. Masters or PhD degree preferred.
Experience
5-10 years experience Optical Engineering experience or related field required.
Additional Job Description:
Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.
Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.
Job Location - City:
Cambridge
Job Location - State:
Massachusetts
Job Location - Postal Code:
02139-3563
The US base salary range for this full-time position is
$82,300.00 - $205,750.00
Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.
Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.
Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.