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Staff Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Trialon Corporation

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

Our experienced Account Managers and Recruiters are available to meet all your technical staffing ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering (in optics/physics) or Engineering/Mathematics background or ...

Trialon Corporation

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Our experienced Account Managers and Recruiters are available to meet all your technical staffing ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering (in optics/physics) or Engineering/Mathematics background or ...

Nokia

Staff-Optical Test Engineer

Allentown, PA · On-site

$118K - $220K/yr

Evaluate emerging optical testing technologies and integrate industry advancements into platform strategies. * Mentor junior and mid-level engineers, leading design reviews and establishing technical ...

Ephemeris Net

Optical Engineer II

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$137K - $177K/yr

You will own optical hardware end to end, across both the transceiver and the free-space link. On ... Staff Engineer: $200,000 - $250,000 * Generous equity package (early team member level) * 401k ...

Nokia

Staff-Optical Test Engineer

Allentown, PA

$127K - $164K/yr

Master's degree or PhD in Engineering, Physics, or related field (or equivalent industry experience) * 8+ years of experience in optical and/or electrical test engineering, with a focus on complex ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Provide optical subject matter expertise to program managers and manufacturing staff. * Assist in ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field * 10+ years of experience in ...

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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 Jul 22, 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 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.
More about Staff Optical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Staff Optical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Staff Optical Engineer job openings:
What job categories do people searching Staff Optical Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Staff Optical Engineer jobs are:
Staff Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Staff Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Optical Engineer

Optical Engineer

Trialon Corporation

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 hours ago

Job description

Company Description

Founded in 1982, Trialon Corporation was established to assist companies with their technical staffing needs. Trialon understands our clients have different needs and we take pride in our ability to adapt accordingly. We will successfully match candidates to your company culture and technical requirements. We maintain a track record of proven accomplishments in providing solutions for excess workloads by supplying qualified contract personnel, as well as direct placements. Trialon provides people throughout North America in many technical fields including Automotive, Aerospace and Telematic Industries. Our experienced Account Managers and Recruiters are available to meet all your technical staffing needs. 

***U.S. citizenship or permanent resident alien status is required. 

***Criminal Background and Drug Test completed on all candidates prior to start.

Job Description



BRIEF DESCRIPTION:     

  • Design optical surfaces for lens and reflector systems for forward and rearward automotive illumination systems.
  • Validate design via internal and external optical ray tracing software
  • Create tools to assist in optical product development
  • Review final product for correlation and product sign-off
  • Attend night drives for headlamp evaluations
  • Support program quoting, feasibility

    MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Define feasibility of lamp assemblies per function and deliver feasibility reports
  • Attend customer meetings for lamp feasibility and performance issues
  • Create optical surfaces on lens and reflectors to meet regulatory and customer requirements
  • Give input to optical  program software development for enhancements as needed
  • Validate/correlate product with photometric testing equipment
  • Assist in program night drive evaluations including analysis of product
  • Solve photometry issues with mfg. plant locations
  • Define hardware and software requirements



Qualifications

Educational Requirement



  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (in optics/physics) or Engineering/Mathematics background or equivalent work experience

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

  • Experience with LED properties
  • Knowledgeable of regulatory specifications
  • 3-5 years optic design experience in Exterior Automotive Lighting
  • Experience with CAD systems



Additional Information

Background check and drug screening required.  No Corp to Corp.  NO H1B Visa  sponsorship.

Must be US Citizen or have valid US Green Card. 

Apply