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Virtual Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Optomechanical Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

This position offers a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence. You will have the ... Bachelor'sdegree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering ...

Senior Optomechanical Engineer

Livermore, CA

$122K - $168K/yr

This position offers a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence. You will have the ... Evaluate system performance through integrated optical and mechanical analyses and collaborate with ...

Senior Optomechanical Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

This position offers a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence. You will have the ... Evaluate system performance through integrated optical and mechanical analyses and collaborate with ...

Product Engineer 4 (Optical)

Fremont, CA · On-site

$104K - $231K/yr

Master's degree in Material Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optics ... Virtual Flex. 'On-site Flex' you'll work 3+ days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier ...

Showing results 41-60

Virtual Optical Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do virtual optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual 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 is a virtual optical engineer?

A Virtual Optical Engineer is a professional who designs, simulates, and analyzes optical systems—such as lenses, lasers, or fiber optics—using computer-aided design (CAD) and simulation software, often working remotely. They collaborate with teams to develop and optimize optical components for industries like telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics. Their work may involve using specialized tools to model light propagation, assess system performance, and troubleshoot design issues before physical prototypes are built.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a virtual optical engineer?

To thrive as a Virtual Optical Engineer, you need a strong background in optics, photonics, and physics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Proficiency in simulation tools such as Zemax, LightTools, or CODE V, and familiarity with CAD software are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are vital soft skills for collaborating on complex projects. These abilities enable the design and optimization of advanced optical systems in virtual environments, ensuring innovation and precision in product development.

What are some common challenges faced by virtual optical engineers when collaborating with remote teams?

Virtual Optical Engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams located in different regions, which can introduce challenges such as coordinating across time zones and ensuring clear communication about technical specifications. Working remotely requires strong documentation skills and the ability to use simulation and collaboration tools effectively to share design files, test results, and feedback in real time. Proactive communication and regular virtual meetings help to bridge gaps, but it's important to be adaptable to diverse working styles and maintain detailed records to ensure everyone stays aligned on project goals.

What is the difference between Virtual Optical Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectVirtual Optical EngineerOptical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optics, physics, or engineering; certifications like Optics CertificationBachelor's or higher in optics, physics, or engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentRemote or virtual settings, collaborating with teams onlineOn-site labs, manufacturing facilities, or office environments
Industry UsageTechnology companies, research firms, remote consultingManufacturing, R&D labs, aerospace, telecommunications
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for remote optical engineering roles or virtual positionsSeeking traditional, on-site optical engineering jobs

While both Virtual Optical Engineers and Optical Engineers require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, Virtual Optical Engineers primarily work remotely, collaborating online, whereas Optical Engineers often work on-site in labs or manufacturing settings. The choice depends on your preferred work environment and industry focus.

More about Virtual Optical Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Virtual Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Virtual Optical Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Virtual Optical Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Virtual Optical Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Virtual Optical Engineer jobs?

For Virtual Optical Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Virtual Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 34% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 65% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Senior Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Irvine, CA • On-site

MKS Instruments, Inc.
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$95K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Are you naturally curious? So are we at MKS. Our collective curiosity drives us to be an innovation leader in many industries. Our products drive technology advancements across a wide range of applications such as 5G, augmented/virtual reality, autonomous vehicles, clean drinking water and space exploration. We are a team of collaborators who value fresh thinking and believe in mutual respect, constructive candor, diversity and inclusion. As a valued and trusted partner to our customers, we are continually pushing the boundaries of possibility. We believe in creating technology that transforms our world and are looking for like-minded individuals to join our team. If this is appealing to you, we want to meet you.
We are looking for an exceptional Senior Optical Manufacturing Engineer to provide overall engineering support to optical fabrication, specifically lens manufacturing using various methods. You will provide independent review of processes, lead improvement efforts and drive process improvements to closure. In addition, an important aspect of your role will be to interact with technicians to provide sound technical guidance. What you will do:
  • Maximize performance efficiency in various areas of optical manufacturing
  • Plan, direct, and coordinate manufacturing processes in a production and clean room environment: develop, evaluate, improve and monitor manufacturing methods
  • Utilize your knowledge of product design, materials and parts, fabrication processes, tooling and production equipment capabilities, assembly methods and quality control standards
  • Implement statistical process control tools
  • Conduct cross functional reviews to ensure collaboration and cohesive manufacturing and measurement processes for new designs

What will you bring to the team, along with your passion for engineering is:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Optical Engineering or relevant technical degree
  • Organizational, analytical and communication skills
  • 5+ years of experience in optical fabrication
  • Experience with optical metrology using Zygo Interferometers and other metrology equipment
  • Experience with SPC, FMEA, CAD/CAM software(G-Code), and programming languages.
  • Familiarity with LEAN principles

We are interested in a qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we will not be sponsoring work visas for this position, at this time.
Compensation and Benefits:
Salary Pay Range: $95,000 to $140,000 per year. This range is a good faith estimate of the expected salary range for this position, based on a wide range of factors including qualifications, experience and training, operational and business needs and other considerations permitted by law. At MKS, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for the role.
Bonus: This position is eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, in an amount to be determined by MKS [or as applicable].
Benefits: MKS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision), 401(k) with company match, life and disability insurance, 12 paid holidays, sick time, 15 paid vacation days, [6 weeks fully paid] parental leave, adoption assistance and tuition reimbursement [and for participation in any stock programs, signing bonus, etc.].
MKS is an equal opportunity employer, including disability, veteran status and all categories protected by law. Please review our EOE statements for additional details.
MKS will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act and the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers.
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Globally, our policy is to recruit individuals from wide and diverse backgrounds. However, certain positions require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. persons." "U.S. persons" are generally defined as U.S. citizens, noncitizen nationals, lawful permanent residents (or, green card holders), individuals granted asylum, and individuals admitted as refugees.
MKS Inc. and its affiliates and subsidiaries ("MKS") is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer: diverse candidates are encouraged to apply. We win as a team and are committed to recruiting and hiring qualified applicants regardless of race, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions), religion, age, ancestry, physical or mental disability or handicap, marital status, membership in the uniformed services, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other category protected by applicable law. Hiring decisions are based on merit, qualifications and business needs. We conduct background checks and drug screens, in accordance with applicable law and company policies. MKS is generally only hiring candidates who reside in states where we are registered to do business.
MKS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process due to a disability, please contact us at: accommodationsatMKS@mksinst.com .
If applying for a specific job, please include the requisition number (ex: RXXXX), the title and location of the role