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

L3HHCM20

Senior Manager, Image Science Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site +1

$133K - $247K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsible for staffing, talent development, training, and overall team leadership to meet ... Experience in image science, remote sensing, electro-optical/infrared systems, sensor phenomenology ...

Kodak

Coating Technician

Rochester, NY · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

... etc.) 4. Assist engineering staff with basic measurements of coated substrates(thickness, coat weight, uniformity, optical clarity, haze, etc) 5. Assist engineering staff with quality system ...

Corning

Manufacturing Department Head

Fairport, NY · On-site

$136K - $187K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead the PO operations teams (Optical Fabrication, Coating, Assembly & Test) consisting of ... Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline, Science, Business, or related field. * 10+ years in ...

Corning Inc.

Manufacturing Department Head

Fairport, NY · On-site

$136.24 - $187.34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead the PO operations teams (Optical Fabrication, Coating, Assembly & Test) consisting of ... Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline, Science, Business, or related field. * 10+ years in ...

Corning

Manufacturing Department Head

Fairport, NY

$136K - $187K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead the PO operations teams (Optical Fabrication, Coating, Assembly & Test) consisting of ... Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline, Science, Business, or related field. * 10+ years in ...

Corning

Manufacturing Department Head

Fairport, NY · On-site

$136K - $187K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead the PO operations teams (Optical Fabrication, Coating, Assembly & Test) consisting of ... Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline, Science, Business, or related field. * 10+ years in ...

Pierson Wireless Corp.

Low Voltage Foreman

Rochester, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Management of installation teams and field service engineering teams. Familiar with, or willing to ... Coax/Fiber Optic/Category Cabling, splitters, combiners, patch panels, cross-connects, antennas ...

IDEX

Manufacturing Supervisor, Systems

West Henrietta, NY

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Staffing Assignment activities for the LSO Systems value streams. Focused on high precision optical ... Process Engineering involvement, seeking process improvement suggestions that display clear ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 12, 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 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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,696 per year, or $68.1 per hour.

Senior Manager, Image Science Engineer

L3HHCM20

Rochester, NY • On-site, Remote

$133K - $247K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Senior Manager, Image Science Engineering

Job Code: 40203

Job Location: Rochester, NY

Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday Off)

Job Description:

Leads a team of 15-25 engineers and scientists in the development of advanced image science, remote sensing, and data exploitation solutions. Provides technical leadership, mentorship, and oversight across image science activities including image formation, sensor phenomenology, calibration, algorithm development, image quality analysis, testing, integration, and sustainment. Responsible for staffing, talent development, training, and overall team leadership to meet business and program objectives. Manages departmental priorities, operating needs, and budgets, and works cross-functionally with software, systems, operations, and other engineering teams to deliver high-quality technical solutions. Drives continuous improvement in engineering processes, system performance, and technical execution while ensuring alignment with company goals, schedules, and customer requirements.

Essential Functions:

  • Lead and support Image Science personnel across multiple programs and technical efforts.
  • Provide functional oversight for image science activities including analysis, calibration, image quality, and algorithm support.
  • Partner with program leaders to align staffing, priorities, and technical resources with business needs.
  • Conduct performance reviews, provide coaching, and support employee development and retention.
  • Support recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and workforce planning for the Image Science function.
  • Contribute to proposal efforts, including technical input, staffing plans, and basis of estimates.
  • Support technical reviews, risk assessments, and root cause/corrective action activities.
  • Mentor team members and encourage knowledge sharing and skill development.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, Imaging Science, Remote Sensing, Applied Mathematics, or a related technical field and relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Experience in image science, remote sensing, electro-optical/infrared systems, sensor phenomenology, or related technical disciplines
  • Experience leading or managing technical teams, projects, or functional engineering groups
  • Knowledge of image science principles such as image quality analysis, calibration, validation, exploitation, or algorithm development
  • Ability to support multiple programs and balance staffing, technical priorities, and business needs
  • Experience working with cross-functional teams including systems, software, hardware, and program management
  • Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills
  • Experience with performance management, coaching, mentoring, and employee development
  • ActiveTop SecretClearance with SCI or SCI eligibility 

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Prior functional management experience in an engineering or scientific organization
  • Experience supporting proposal, capture, and business development activities, including staffing plans and basis of estimates
  • Experience with EO/IR imaging systems, ISR systems, geospatial imagery, or sensor data exploitation
  • Familiarity with image formation, phenomenology, modeling and simulation, or calibration methodologies
  • Experience supporting root cause investigations and corrective action efforts for technical or program issues
  • Knowledge of engineering processes, technical reviews, and lifecycle development activities
  • Experience working in a defense, aerospace, or government-contractor environment

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in the state of New York is $133,000-$247,000. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

The application window for this position will close on 9/24/2026.

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