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

Syntec Optics

Optics Designer

Rochester, NY · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Optical Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and ... Take a leadership role in guiding technical staff and making significant contributions to project ...

Corning

Senior Staff Scientist - Optics

Fairport, NY · On-site

$139K - $191K/yr

Master's Degree in physics, optical engineering or electrical engineering and 10 years of relevant experience. * Strong working knowledge of optics and optical properties of materials * Ability to ...

Corning

Senior Staff Scientist - Optics

Fairport, NY · On-site

$139K - $191K/yr

Master's Degree in physics, optical engineering or electrical engineering and 10 years of relevant experience. * Strong working knowledge of optics and optical properties of materials * Ability to ...

Corning

Senior Staff Scientist - Optics

Fairport, NY

$139K - $191K/yr

Master's Degree in physics, optical engineering or electrical engineering and 10 years of relevant experience. * Strong working knowledge of optics and optical properties of materials * Ability to ...

Corning

Senior Staff Engineer, Optomechanical

Fairport, NY · On-site

$139K - $191K/yr

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 ...

Syntec Optics

Coating Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

This role working closely with other engineers and manufacturing staff. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Provide engineering support for PVD optical coating production, spanning development ...

QuidelOrtho

Staff Electrical Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

Join our mission as our next Staff Electrical Engineer. This role is for in vitro diagnostic ... optical systems preferred. * Must have strong customer focus to ensure that the experience ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsStaff Optical Engineer JobsStaff Optical Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Staff Optical Engineer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$81.9K

$141.7K

$166.3K

How much do staff optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for staff 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.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to advancements in fields like telecommunications, aerospace, and medical devices. Their expertise in designing and developing optical systems, along with skills in laser technology and optical simulation tools, makes them valuable in various high-tech industries.

What are Staff Optical Engineers?

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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior optical engineers, including staff optical engineers, can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in optical design and simulation, and working in high-demand industries like aerospace, defense, or telecommunications. Achieving this salary often requires specialized certifications, a strong track record, and working in senior or leadership roles.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced optical engineers, such as senior staff optical engineers working in advanced research, development, or leadership roles in industries like aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. These roles typically require specialized skills, advanced degrees, and extensive industry experience. Compensation at this level often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior optical engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced skills in optical design, and certifications, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles in industries like aerospace, defense, or specialized research often offer such compensation, particularly for engineers with expertise in laser systems, imaging, or photonics.

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.
What are popular job titles related to Staff Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY? For Staff Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Staff Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Staff Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
Staff Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Staff Optical Engineer job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,696 per year, or $68.1 per hour.
Optics Designer

Optics Designer

Syntec Optics

Rochester, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job summary:

We are seeking an experienced Optical Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and optimization of optical systems for a variety of applications and advanced technologies. This role involves using industry-standard software (Zemax, Code-V, or equivalent) to model, simulate, and optimize optical designs. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical systems with mechanical, electrical, and software components while ensuring designs meet performance requirements and industry standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Design, analyze, and optimize optical systems using industry-standard software tools such as Zemax OpticStudio, Code-V, or equivalent.
  • Lead the design and execution of optical system and component testing, ensuring alignment with performance requirements.
  • Apply a deep understanding of optical principles, theories, and concepts to solve complex design challenges.
  • Analyze data sets and create tools for effective data visualization and manipulation.
  • Take a leadership role in guiding technical staff and making significant contributions to project outcomes.
  • Collaborate in a small, fast-paced team environment, bringing creativity and technical expertise to each project.
  • Utilize operating systems like Linux and Windows, and be proficient in MS Office (PowerPoint, Excel) and MATLAB.
  • Present technical results to internal teams, customers, and at workshops/conferences.
  • Performs other related duties and assignments as required.
Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk and/or hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle or feel. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch and/or crawl. The employee must also occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision and color vision. Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete and abstract variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.

The noise level in the work environment may range from low, moderate to loud.

Education, Skills, and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
  • 5-10 years of experience in optical design, modeling, and simulation.
  • Proficiency with optical design software (Zemax, Code V, LightTools, etc.).
  • Strong understanding of optical principles, including ray tracing, diffraction, and wave optics.
  • Experience with optical system testing and validation.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
  • Flexibility with working hours may be required to meet business needs and deadlines.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. He/she will be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other responsible duties as requested by his/her supervisor.

Syntec Technologies is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other reason prohibited by law.