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Staff Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optikos

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the architecture, design, analysis, and delivery of advanced optical systems and technologies. This role drives ...

Optikos Corporation

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the architecture, design, analysis, and delivery of advanced optical systems and technologies. This role drives ...

Optikos, LLC.

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

Description The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the architecture, design, analysis, and delivery of advanced optical systems and technologies. This ...

Onto

Staff Optical Engineer

Budd Lake, NJ

$115K - $172K/yr

Job Summary & Responsibilities The Staff Optical Engineer will lead and support the design, development, and implementation of optical metrology solutions used in semiconductor manufacturing ...

Onto

Staff Optical Engineer

Budd Lake, NJ · On-site

$115K - $172K/yr

Job Summary & Responsibilities The Staff Optical Engineer will lead and support the design, development, and implementation of optical metrology solutions used in semiconductor manufacturing ...

Inversion

Staff Optical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$161K - $221K/yr

As a Staff Optical Engineer at Inversion, you will own major elements of the optical systems that enable our vehicles to sense, navigate, and perform in extreme environments. You will lead the ...

MicroVision

Staff Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · Hybrid

$120K - $155K/yr

To strengthen our team at the Orlando location, we are looking for a Staff Optical Engineer. As a key member of MicroVision's Optical Systems Engineering team, you will collaborate with various ...

MicroVision

Staff Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

To strengthen our team at the Orlando location, we are looking for a Staff Optical Engineer. As a key member of MicroVision's Optical Systems Engineering team, you will collaborate with various ...

MicroVision

Staff Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · Hybrid

$120K - $155K/yr

To strengthen our team at the Orlando location, we are looking for a Staff Optical Engineer. As a key member of MicroVision's Optical Systems Engineering team, you will collaborate with various ...

Inversion

Staff Optical Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$161K - $221K/yr

As a Staff Optical Engineer at Inversion, you will own major elements of the optical systems that enable our vehicles to sense, navigate, and perform in extreme environments. You will lead the ...

Muon Space

Staff Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site +1

$166K - $223K/yr

About the role Muon seeks a Staff Optical Engineer to act as a technical lead on our team in Mountain View, CA or Remote, developing infrared remote sensing instruments. The ideal candidate is a self ...

Nokia

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

As a Staff Optical Design Verification Test (ODVT) Engineer, you will lead the comprehensive testing, validation, and performance characterization of the next generation of coherent linecards and ...

Muon Space

Staff Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$166K - $223K/yr

About the role Muon seeks a Staff Optical Engineer to act as a technical lead on our team in Mountain View, CA or Remote, developing infrared remote sensing instruments. The ideal candidate is a self ...

Nokia

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$139K - $228K/yr

As a Staff Optical Design Verification Test (ODVT) Engineer, you will lead the comprehensive testing, validation, and performance characterization of the next generation of coherent linecards and ...

Muon Space

Staff Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site +1

$166K - $223K/yr

About the role Muon seeks a Staff Optical Engineer to act as a technical lead on our team in Mountain View, CA or Remote, developing infrared remote sensing instruments. The ideal candidate is a self ...

Veeco Instruments, Inc.

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$147K - $191K/yr

MS degree with 8+ years of experience in Optical Engineering or related field; or a PhD degree with 5+ years of related experience is required. Experience with ZEMAX is also required. Knowledge ...

Nokia

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$139K - $258K/yr

Individual contributor engineering position responsible for designing control algorithms for highly-integrated optical devices and implementing optical validation tests for digital coherent optical ...

Veeco Instruments, Inc.

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$147K - $191K/yr

MS degree with 8+ years of experience in Optical Engineering or related field; or a PhD degree with 5+ years of related experience is required. Experience with ZEMAX is also required. Knowledge ...

Nokia

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

Individual contributor engineering position responsible for designing control algorithms for highly-integrated optical devices and implementing optical validation tests for digital coherent optical ...

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All JobsStaff Optical Engineer Jobs

Staff Optical Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do staff optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for staff 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.

Are staff optical engineers in high demand?

Staff optical engineers are in high demand due to the growth of industries such as telecommunications, aerospace, and consumer electronics that rely on advanced optical systems. They often require specialized skills in optics design, simulation tools, and knowledge of manufacturing processes, making experienced professionals valuable in the job market.

How much do staff optical engineers make?

Staff optical engineers typically earn between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the industry sector. Advanced skills in optical design, laser systems, and proficiency with tools like Zemax or Code V can influence salary levels.

What is a staff optical engineer?

Staff Optical Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and test optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They often lead technical projects, solve complex optical problems, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring optical products from concept to production. Their work is critical in industries like telecommunications, medical devices, aerospace, and consumer electronics. Staff-level engineers typically have several years of experience and may mentor junior engineers or contribute to setting technical direction within their organizations.

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

To thrive as a Staff Optical Engineer, you need a strong background in optics, physics, and engineering, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in optical design. Proficiency with optical simulation software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and familiarity with industry standards are commonly required, along with certifications like SPIE or OSA membership being advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and attention to detail set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative optical systems, ensuring product quality, and collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

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

AspectStaff Optical EngineerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; experience in optical design and testingBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, manufacturing facilitiesDesign teams, manufacturing, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, aerospace, defense, medical devicesOptical design firms, tech companies, manufacturing

While both roles involve optical design and testing, a Staff Optical Engineer typically has more experience, takes on leadership responsibilities, and works on complex projects. An Optical Engineer is often an entry to mid-level role focused on supporting optical development tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by staff optical engineers when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Staff Optical Engineers often collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to develop complex optical systems. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across disciplines, as each team may use different technical language and have varying priorities. Additionally, integrating optical components within broader system constraints—such as size, weight, and power—can require creative problem-solving and compromise. Being proactive in cross-functional meetings and documenting requirements thoroughly can help mitigate these challenges and contribute to successful project outcomes.
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Staff Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Staff Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Staff Optical Engineer

Optikos

Wakefield, MA • On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the architecture, design, analysis, and delivery of advanced optical systems and technologies. This role drives innovation across imaging, illumination, and opto-mechanical systems while mentoring engineering teams and guiding complex product development from concept through manufacturing release.
The Staff Optical Engineer is recognized as a key technical expert and collaborates cross-functionally to influence product strategy, solve high-impact engineering challenges, and ensure world-class optical performance.
Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Lead the development of next-generation optical architectures, imaging systems, illumination systems, and custom opto-mechanical assemblies.
  • Define optical system requirements and translate them into detailed design specifications.
  • Serve as a subject-matter expert on geometrical optics, physical optics, laser systems, and optical metrology.
  • Drive innovation by evaluating emerging technologies, materials, and design methodologies relevant to product roadmap needs.
  • Perform advanced optical modeling, simulation, and optimization using industry tools such as Zemax, Code V, FRED, and LightTools.
  • Conduct complex tolerance analyses, sensitivity studies, stray-light analysis, and system performance modeling.
  • Lead root-cause investigations for optical performance issues across prototypes and production systems.
  • Establish optical design, best practices, quality standards, and review processes.
  • Oversee and participate in hands-on laboratory work, including optical assembly, alignment, and performance characterization.
  • Guide development of metrology methods and test stations using interferometers, autocollimators, spectrophotometers, lasers, and custom equipment.
  • Validate system performance through data analysis of MTF, wavefront error, distortion, noise, and other key metrics.
  • Partner with mechanical, electrical, systems, and manufacturing engineering teams to ensure robust opto-mechanical integration.
  • Provide strategic technical input during concept reviews, design trade studies, risk assessments, and product design reviews.
  • Work closely with vendors and suppliers to evaluate components, materials, and manufacturing capabilities.
  • Mentor junior and mid-level optical engineers in design methodology, laboratory techniques, modeling, and best practices.
  • Lead technical reviews, provide constructive feedback, and foster growth of optical engineering competencies across the organization.
  • Act as a technical representative during customer engagements, requirement discussions, and design presentations.
  • Support transition from prototype to high-throughput manufacturing, including tolerance optimization, process documentation, and production troubleshooting.

Skills and Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or related discipline; Master's or PhD strongly preferred.
  • 10+ years of experience in optical design, analysis, and testing.
  • Deep proficiency with optical simulation tools (Zemax, Code V, FRED, LightTools, or equivalent).
  • Extensive experience in imaging optics, illumination design, and opto-mechanical integration.
  • Proven ability to lead complex optical development programs with minimal oversight.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to create high-quality technical reports and documentation.
  • Hands-on laboratory experience with optical alignment, metrology equipment, and prototype testing.
  • Experience guiding products through full development lifecycle into manufacturing preferred.
  • Background in system-level engineering and multidisciplinary design preferred.
  • Demonstrated leadership of technical teams or project initiatives preferred.
  • Experience collaborating with customers, external vendors, and cross-functional stakeholders preferred.

About Optikos:
For more than 40 years, Optikos® has provided innovative applications of optical technology, both products and services, to commercial, government, and consumer products organizations worldwide. The Optikos engineering team is the largest independent optical engineering group in the world, managing all aspects of instrument design, including optics, mechanics, electronics, and software systems, in addition to our in-house IQ Lab™ Services to benchmark and assess the performance of customer lens or camera systems. We develop innovative products in the life sciences, aerospace and defense, industrial, and consumer markets, and our experience with a wide variety of applications has enabled our staff to generate creative solutions to some of the most challenging optical problems. Our team continues to improve existing metrology product lines and develop new products that Optikos manufactures and installs around the globe.
If you are an enthusiastic, team-oriented individual looking for a challenge and the opportunity to continue to develop professionally, send us your resume.
This is a 100% in-office position located in our headquarters in Wakefield, Massachusetts. We offer competitive compensation packages along with a challenging and stimulating environment.
Optikos is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status. We do not sponsor employment visas for this position.
Salary Description
$130-165k/Annually

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