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Staff Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OMNIVISION

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$120K - $200K/yr

The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance. Responsibilities: * Design ...

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

$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 ...

Nokia

Staff-Optical Test Engineer

Allentown, PA · On-site

$127K - $164K/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 ...

Wilcox Industries

Senior Optical Engineer

Portsmouth, NH · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer (OE) serves as the company's technical authority for optical systems ... Must be able to maintain composure in dealing with executives, and staff, occasionally under ...

Wilcox Industries

Senior Optical Engineer

Newington, NH · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer (OE) serves as the company's technical authority for optical systems ... Must be able to maintain composure in dealing with executives, and staff, occasionally under ...

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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 8, 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Electro-Optical Engineer Staff

Electro-Optical Engineer Staff

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 59 rated aerospace companies

Job description

You will be the Electro-Optical Engineer Staff for the Electro Optical Infrared Team, which is responsible for developing and maturing EOIR solutions for the Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Fort Worth (LM Aero).


What You Will Be Doing


As the Electro-Optical Engineer Staff, you will support activities associated with the development and maturation of EOIR solutions, including defining, reviewing, and documenting engineering requirements, performing engineering document reviews, and coordinating with Principal Engineers and other key stakeholders.


"Your responsibilities will include:



  • Defining, reviewing, and documenting engineering requirements for EOIR systems.

  • Performing engineering document reviews and reviewing specifications to ensure compliance with contract requirements.

  • Coordinating with Principal Engineers, other key stakeholders, and internal and external customers to support the development and integration of EOIR systems.

  • Employing education and experience in engineering to plan, develop, integrate, and validate Electro Optic, Infrared Optic, and Laser Optic systems on military fighter aircraft.

  • Preparing and giving briefings to customers, technical leads, and Lockheed Martin management as required.


What's In It For You


We are committed to supporting your work-life balance and overall well-being, offering flexible scheduling options. Learn more about Lockheed Martin's comprehensive benefits package here.
Do you want to be part of a company culture that empowers employees to think big, lead with a growth mindset, and make the impossible a reality? We provide the resources and give you the flexibility to enable inspiration and focus - if you have the passion and courage to dream big, work hard, and have fun doing what you love then we want to build a better tomorrow with you.


Who You Are


The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated and experienced engineer with a strong background in electro-optical engineering and system engineering. You will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with stakeholders to meet deadlines.


Further Information About This Opportunity


MUST BE A U.S. CITIZEN -This position is located at a facility that requiresspecial access. The selected candidate must possess an active Secretclearance to start.


This position is in Fort Worth, TX Discover Fort Worth.

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912

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