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Staff Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KLA Corporation

Staff Optical Engineer(E)

Milpitas, CA

$125K - $212K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer will collaborate to develop next generation patterned wafer geometry metrology platform to produce comprehensive wafer warp, bow, dual-sided nanotopography, high-resolution ...

Orbotech

Staff Optical Engineer(E)

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$125K - $212K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer will collaborate to develop next generation patterned wafer geometry metrology platform to produce comprehensive wafer warp, bow, dual-sided nanotopography, high-resolution ...

Marvell

Staff Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$151K - $196K/yr

Knowledge of optical communications from system to component level * Capable programmer with experience in Python. Experience with automating instrument control. * Ability to validate hardware and ...

KLA Corporation

Staff Optical Engineer(E)

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$125K - $212K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer will collaborate to develop next generation patterned wafer geometry metrology platform to produce comprehensive wafer warp, bow, dual-sided nanotopography, high-resolution ...

Marvell

Senior Staff Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$151K - $196K/yr

... optical communication systems impairments and compensations, signal integrity along the data path, amplifiers, and tunable filters. * Solid understanding of RF/microwave engineering and photonics ...

Oclaro

Staff Optical Design Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$108K - $155K/yr

Staff Optical design engineer Lumentum is seeking a candidate for the position of a Sr. optical design engineer. The position will be responsible formodeling optical trains in high-speed optical ...

Nokia

Staff Optical Test Development Engineer

San Jose, CA

$151K - $195K/yr

We are looking for a staff optical engineer to develop optical test solutions for our optical products. You will be empowered to make decisions and implement your creative ideas to advance Nokia ...

Nokia

Staff Optical Test Development Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$105K - $195K/yr

We are looking for a staff optical engineer to develop optical test solutions for our optical products. You will be empowered to make decisions and implement your creative ideas to advance Nokia ...

Rydberg Technologies

Optical Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$126K - $163K/yr

... support staff. • Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in optical metrology and optical engineering. Other Skills: • Optical Design and Simulation ...

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All JobsStaff Optical Engineer Jobs

Staff Optical Engineer information

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$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do staff optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 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.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior optical engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually in high-paying industries such as defense, aerospace, or semiconductor manufacturing. These roles often require expertise in optical design, systems engineering, and proficiency with tools like Zemax or Code V, along with leadership responsibilities. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

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 optics simulation and CAD tools, makes them valuable in technology-driven industries with steady growth prospects.

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 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 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 and leadership responsibilities.

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.

How much do fiber optic engineers get paid?

Fiber optic engineers, including staff optical engineers, typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in optical design or testing may earn higher salaries, often supplemented with benefits and bonuses.
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Staff Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Staff Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Locum Tenens, 72% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Staff Optical Engineer

Staff Optical Engineer

Becton, Dickinson and Company

Milpitas, CA

$150K - $194K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life

Posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain system-level optical designs for components, subassemblies, and integrated flow cytometry platforms.

  • Perform Zemax (OpticStudio) modeling including performance prediction, tolerance analysis, sensitivity studies, and design trade-off evaluation.

  • Define and execute optical integration, alignment, and calibration procedures to meet system-level performance requirements.

BD rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 137 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

270th of 421 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

As a result of the combination of the BD Biosciences and Diagnostic Solutions business with Waters Corporation (NYSE: WAT), by applying to this role, you will be applying for a position with Waters. Waters is a global leader in life sciences, dedicated to accelerating the benefits of pioneering science through analytical technologies, informatics, and service. With a focus on regulated, high-volume testing environments, Waters' innovative portfolio harnesses deep scientific expertise across biology, chemistry, and physics. Waters collaborates with analytical laboratories around the world to advance the release of effective, high-quality medicines, assure the safety of food and water, and drive better patient outcomes by detecting diseases earlier, managing routine infections, and combatting growing antibiotic resistance. Through a shared culture of relentless innovation, Waters' passionate team of approximately 16,000 colleagues partner with customers to turn scientific challenges into breakthroughs that improve lives worldwide. We are the people who give possibilities purpose

BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world. Advancing the world of health is our Purpose, and it's no small feat. It takes the imagination and passion of all of us-from design and engineering to the manufacturing and marketing of our billions of MedTech products per year-to look at the impossible and find transformative solutions that turn dreams into possibilities.

Job Description

Job Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain system-level optical designs for components, subassemblies, and integrated flow cytometry platforms

  • Perform Zemax (OpticStudio) modeling including performance prediction, tolerance analysis, sensitivity studies, and design trade-off evaluation

  • Define optical performance requirements and acceptance criteria at system and subsystem levels in collaboration with Systems Engineering

  • Define and execute optical integration, alignment, and calibration procedures to meet system-level performance requirements

  • Analyze optical performance data to drive design optimization, improve system robustness, and reduce manufacturing and field variability

  • Support root cause investigations for system- and subsystem-level optical and laser alignment issues

  • Evaluate, test, and qualify optical components and modules, establishing acceptance criteria and improving incoming quality

  • Lead technical evaluation and qualification of optical suppliers (lasers, filters, lenses, fiber optics, detection modules)

  • Contribute across the full product lifecycle including concept, design, verification, and qualification in compliance with ISO 13485 and 21 CFR Part 820

  • Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams on design changes, NPI, and product transfers

  • Support development of next-generation optical architectures and platform strategies across flow cytometry systems

  • Provide support to Corrective and Preventative Actions (CAPA), End-of-life (EOL) component selection, and cost reduction activities.

  • Lead technical initiatives to resolve performance and supplier-related issues

  • Travel domestically and internationally up to approximately 5% as required

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree (minimum),Master'sdegree (preferred), or PhD (desired) in Optics, Physics, or Optical/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering.

  • Relevant industry experience typically includes:

  • Bachelor's degree: 10+ years

  • Master's degree: 8-9+ years

  • PhD: 4-7+ years

Knowledge and Skills

  • Strong foundationin physics or engineering with an analytical and inquisitive mindset.

  • Ability to apply disciplined, repeatable methods to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues.

  • Experience with optical systems, alignment, and calibration processes.

  • Proficiencyin data analysis and statistical tools for process improvement.

  • Ability to interpret system models, including error budgets, sensitivity analyses, and throughput considerations related to optical performance.

  • Strong problem-solving, cross-functional collaboration, and communication skills.

At BD, we prioritize on-site collaboration because we believe it fosters creativity, innovation, and effective problem-solving, which are essential in the fast-paced healthcare industry. For most roles, we require a minimum of 4 days of in-office presence per week to maintain our culture of excellence and ensure smooth operations, while also recognizing the importance of flexibility and work-life balance.

For certain roles at BD, employment is contingent upon the Company's receipt of sufficient proof that you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. In some locations, testing for COVID-19 may be available and/or required. Consistent with BD's Workplace Accommodations Policy, requests for accommodation will be considered pursuant to applicable law.

Why Join Us?

To find purpose in the possibilities, we need people who can see the bigger picture, who understand the human story that underpins everything we do. We welcome people with the imagination and drive to help us reinvent the future of healthcare. At BD, you'll discover a culture in which you can learn, grow and thrive.

We believe that when people connect in person, we learn faster, collaborate more deeply, and build a stronger culture. Join us and enjoy a culture where face-to-face collaboration supports your learning, your progress, and your success.

To learn more about BD visit https://bd.com/careers.

Becton, Dickinson, and Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, disability, military eligibility or veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

Required Skills

Optional Skills

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Primary Work LocationUSA CA - Milpitas 155Additional LocationsWork Shift

At BD, we reward, support and develop our associates through our comprehensive Total Rewards program. We are committed to attracting and retaining high quality talent by providing reward and recognition opportunities that promote a performance-based culture, as well as a competitive package of compensation and benefits programs. You can learn more on our career site under "Our Commitment to You."

Our salary or hourly rate ranges reward associates fairly and competitively. We regularly review these ranges and factors, such as location, contribute to the range displayed.

Our pay is based on the role and the necessary skills and education to perform it successfully. The salary or hourly rate offered is determined by the role's specific requirements, including any applicable step rate pay system at the work location. Salary or hourly pay ranges are influenced by labor laws and Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) requirements applicable to the work location which may also affect the workplace arrangement of the role.

Salary Range Information

$135,500.00 - $216,800.00 USD Annual

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About BD

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world and is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics and the delivery of care. We have over 65,000 employees and a presence in virtually every country around the world to address some of the most challenging global health issues.

Industry

Medical equipment and supplies manufacturing and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Franklin Lakes, NJ, US

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