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Aerospace Optics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optical Metrology Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

Knowledge of ISO 10110, MIL specifications, aerospace optical standards, or other industry standards. * Experience with automation and programming, including scripting and integration of metrology ...

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Optics, Photonics, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience) * 2-5 years of experience in optical components, aerospace, optical communications ...

Aerospace Engineer Position Type: Full-time (ON-SITE) Position Location: Chantilly, VA Clearance ... Conduct sensor phenomenology studies, including optical, infrared, or radar modeling for detection ...

Previous experience in Aerospace preferred although not required. We are searching for someone with ... optical devices. HEICO Corporation is a New York Stock Exchange listed company (NYSE: HEI and HEI.A ...

Previous experience in Aerospace preferred although not required. We are searching for someone with ... optical devices. HEICO Corporation is a New York Stock Exchange listed company (NYSE: HEI and HEI.A ...

Previous experience in Aerospace preferred although not required. We are searching for someone with ... optical devices. HEICO Corporation is a New York Stock Exchange listed company (NYSE: HEI and HEI.A ...

Previous experience in Aerospace preferred although not required. We are searching for someone with ... optical devices. HEICO Corporation is a New York Stock Exchange listed company (NYSE: HEI and HEI.A ...

Previous experience in Aerospace preferred although not required. We are searching for someone with ... optical devices. HEICO Corporation is a New York Stock Exchange listed company (NYSE: HEI and HEI.A ...

Previous experience in Aerospace preferred although not required. We are searching for someone with ... optical devices. HEICO Corporation is a New York Stock Exchange listed company (NYSE: HEI and HEI.A ...

Senior Optics Technician

Victor, NY · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Fabricate prototype optical components of exceptional quality for use in aerospace, medical, defense, semi-conductor, and energy industries. Expectations:Produce high quality, complex optical ...

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Optics, Photonics, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience) * 2-5 years of experience in optical components, aerospace, optical communications ...

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aerospace optics information

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$44K

$90.2K

$146K

How much do aerospace optics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace optics in the United States is $90,170.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is aerospace optics?

Aerospace optics refers to the design, development, and application of optical systems and components used in aerospace environments, such as satellites, aircraft, and spacecraft. These systems include lenses, mirrors, sensors, and imaging devices that enable functions like navigation, communication, surveillance, and scientific observation. The field requires specialized knowledge to ensure optical components can withstand extreme temperatures, vibrations, and radiation present in aerospace settings. Aerospace optics professionals work to optimize performance and reliability for missions ranging from Earth observation to deep space exploration.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in aerospace optics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Aerospace Optics often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision under extreme environmental conditions, integrating optical systems with rapidly evolving avionics, and managing strict regulatory requirements. Addressing these issues typically involves rigorous testing, continuous collaboration with multidisciplinary teams (such as engineers and quality assurance specialists), and staying updated with the latest advancements in optical materials and sensor technologies. Proactive communication and adaptability are key to successfully navigating these challenges and ensuring the reliability of aerospace optical components.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerospace optics engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as an Aerospace Optics Engineer, you need a solid background in optical engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and experience with cleanroom environments and quality standards like ISO are essential. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are crucial for developing precise optical systems that meet stringent aerospace requirements for safety, reliability, and performance.

What is the difference between Aerospace Optics vs Optical Engineer?

AspectAerospace OpticsOptical Engineer
CredentialsDegree in optics, physics, or engineering; certifications in optical designDegree in optical engineering, physics, or related field; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aerospace manufacturing, satellite and spacecraft developmentResearch labs, manufacturing, telecommunications, defense, and aerospace sectors
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace applications like satellite optics, missile guidance, and space telescopesBroadly in industries including aerospace, defense, telecommunications, and consumer electronics

While both Aerospace Optics and Optical Engineers work with optical systems, Aerospace Optics specialists focus specifically on designing and developing optical components for aerospace applications such as satellites and spacecraft. Optical Engineers have a broader scope, working across various industries that require optical system design, testing, and implementation. The roles often overlap in skills and credentials but differ mainly in application focus and industry specialization.

More about aerospace optics jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Optics jobs?

The most popular types of Aerospace Optics jobs are:

What states have the most Aerospace Optics jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aerospace Optics jobs include:

Infographic showing various Aerospace Optics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,170 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Optical Metrology Engineer

Syntec Optics

Rochester, NY • On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Optical Metrology Engineer to support the testing, characterization, and validation of precision optical systems and components. The ideal candidate will have extensive hands-on experience with Zygo Max interferometer systems and Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) measurements for evaluating optical performance throughout development and production.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Perform interferometric testing using Zygo Max interferometer systems to evaluate optical surface quality, transmitted wavefront error, and system alignment.
  • Conduct MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) testing to verify optical imaging performance and ensure compliance with customer and engineering specifications.
  • Develop, optimize, and document optical test procedures for production and engineering environments.
  • Analyze interferometric data, wavefront measurements, and MTF results to identify optical defects and recommend corrective actions.
  • Support optical alignment, troubleshooting, and root-cause investigations during prototype and production builds.
  • Collaborate with optical design, manufacturing, quality, and engineering teams to improve product performance and manufacturing yield.
  • Maintain calibration and preventive maintenance schedules for optical metrology equipment.
  • Generate detailed technical reports documenting measurement results, statistical analysis, and product acceptance criteria.
  • Ensure compliance with ISO, customer, and internal quality standards.
  • Contributes to assigned special projects that support departmental or organizational objectives.
  • Completes additional duties assigned to support business needs.
Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk and/or hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle or feel. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch and/or crawl. The employee must also occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision and color vision. Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete and abstract variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. The noise level in the work environment may range from low, moderate to loud.

Education, Skills and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 3+ years of experience in optical metrology, optical testing, or optical test engineering.
  • Hands-on experience operating Zygo Max interferometer systems and performing wavefront error analysis, interferometry, MTF measurement and interpretation, optical alignment, and precision optical testing.
  • Experience using optical metrology and test equipment, including autocollimators, alignment telescopes, collimators, and other precision measurement instruments.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis skills, with the ability to identify, diagnose, and resolve optical system performance issues.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly document test results and collaborate across cross-functional teams.
  • Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with optical manufacturing processes and precision optical assembly.
  • Familiarity with Zemax, Code V, or equivalent optical design software.
  • Experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Measurement System Analysis (MSA).
  • Programming experience with MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW to automate optical testing and analyze measurement data.
  • Knowledge of ISO 10110, MIL specifications, aerospace optical standards, or other industry standards.
  • Experience with automation and programming, including scripting and integration of metrology systems into automated manufacturing environments