Apple
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60 Apple Optical Engineer Jobs Hiring Near You

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$147.40K - $272.10K/yr

Optical Engineer Apple's display technology team features a collaborative environment with creative and elite products & pioneering technologies. Our team provides opportunities for individuals to ...

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$147.40K - $272.10K/yr

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great ... The team is looking for an Optical Engineer to work on the development of custom illumination and ...

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159.20K - $206K/yr

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great ... The team is looking for an Optical Engineer to work on the development of custom illumination and ...

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$147.40K - $272.10K/yr

Apple's display technology team features a collaborative environment with creative and elite ... Description As an optical engineer focused on novel instrumentations, you will be responsible for ...

Display Module Optical Engineer Apple is seeking a highly motivated Display Module Optical Engineer with a strong passion for next-generation display technologies. Explore optics and develop module ...

Display Optical Engineer Do you have a passion for invention and self-challenge? Do you thrive on ... Through touch and sight, these displays are how millions of Apple customers connect with our ...

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159.20K - $206K/yr

Apple's display technology team features a collaborative environment with creative and elite ... As an optical engineer focused on novel instrumentations, you will be responsible for designing and ...

Display Module Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$181.10K - $318.40K/yr

Apple is seeking a highly motivated Display Module Optical Engineer with a strong passion for next-generation display technologies. Explore optics and develop module-level integration processes for ...

Description Apple's display team is searching for a candidate on the optical simulation, design ... A broad engineering background encompassing display technologies, optical simulation (LightTools ...

Display Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159.20K - $206K/yr

Apple's display team is searching for a candidate on the optical simulation, design, and validation ... Experience using programming languages (MATLAB, Python etc) and statistic tools (JMP etc) to solve ...

Display Module Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$151.40K - $196K/yr

Apple is seeking a highly motivated Display Module Optical Engineer with a strong passion for next-generation display technologies. Explore optics and develop module-level integration processes for ...

Optical System Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159.20K - $206K/yr

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great ... The team is looking for a Camera Optical Engineer to develop and support custom lens design and ...

Optical System Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159.20K - $206K/yr

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great ... The team is looking for a Camera Optical Engineer to develop and support custom lens design and ...

Optical System Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$147.40K - $272.10K/yr

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great ... The team is looking for a Camera Optical Engineer to develop and support custom lens design and ...

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great ... The team is looking for an Optical Engineer to work on advanced optical technology development.

Optical System Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$126.80K - $190.90K/yr

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great ... The team is looking for a Camera Optical Engineer to develop and support custom lens design and ...

Optical System Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$147.40K - $272.10K/yr

Optical System Engineer Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great work. Every new product we build, service we create, or Apple Store ...

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great ... The team is looking for an Optical Engineer to work on advanced optical technology development ...

Optical Design Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$147.40K - $272.10K/yr

Optical Design Engineer Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great work. Every new product we build, service we create, or Apple Store ...

Optical Science Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$147.40K - $220.90K/yr

At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer ... As an Optical Science Engineer, you will have the following responsibilities: All aspects of ...

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Apple Jobs Information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and laboratory equipment is commonly required, along with relevant certifications like SPIE or OSA membership. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this field. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing precise optical systems, solving complex technical challenges, and collaborating on innovative projects.

What are some typical challenges Optical Engineers face when working on new product development?

Optical Engineers involved in new product development often encounter challenges such as balancing optical performance with manufacturability and cost constraints. They must collaborate closely with mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure system integration meets all technical requirements. Additionally, they need to troubleshoot issues that arise during prototyping, such as unexpected aberrations or alignment difficulties, and iterate designs rapidly to meet project timelines. Effective communication and creative problem-solving are essential in overcoming these hurdles.

What does an optical engineer do?

An optical engineer designs and develops devices and systems that use the properties of light, such as lenses, lasers, microscopes, and fiber optics. They use principles of physics and engineering to solve problems related to the generation, transmission, and detection of light. Optical engineers work in a variety of industries, including telecommunications, aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing. Their work often involves research, testing, and improving optical components and systems to enhance performance and efficiency.

What is the difference between Optical Engineer vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical EngineerOptical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in optics or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of optical systems in labs or R&D settingsAssembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical equipment in manufacturing or labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, aerospace, defenseManufacturers, optical labs, production facilities

Optical Engineers focus on designing and developing optical systems, requiring higher education and involved in R&D. Optical Technicians handle the assembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical devices, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the optics industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What is it like to work at Apple?

Apple is known for its innovative and collaborative culture, prioritizing creativity, simplicity, and customer satisfaction. The company's flat organizational structure and cross-functional teams allow employees to work closely with experts from various fields, fostering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where employees can contribute to groundbreaking projects. Working at Apple may appeal to those who value the opportunity to be part of a mission-driven organization that combines technology, design, and user experience to create innovative products that make a positive impact on people's lives.

Do workers at Apple get paid breaks?

Yes. Most people get paid breaks.
77% of people say they get paid breaks.
Based on data from 97 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Does Apple pay people when they’re sick?

Yes. Most people get paid when they’re sick.
71% of people say they would get paid if they were sick but scheduled to work.
Based on data from 93 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

At Apple, are sick days and vacation days separate paid time off?

Sick days and vacation days are separate paid time off.
78% of people say they don’t have to use vacation days when they’re out sick.
Based on data from 86 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Are part-time workers able to get health insurance from Apple?

Most people who work part-time can get health insurance.
90% of people who work fewer than 30 hours a week say they can get health insurance
Based on data from 31 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and March 2025.

Do part-time workers get paid time off at Apple?

Most people who work part-time get paid time off.
84% of people who work part-time say they get paid time off
Based on data from 64 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between June 2025 and May 2026.

Is the health insurance from Apple affordable enough for their workers?

Most people say the health insurance costs are okay.
95% of people say the health insurance costs are okay
Based on data from 86 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Do people get paid time off at Apple?

Most people get paid time off work.
92% of people say they get paid time off.
Based on data from 99 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

How far ahead of time do people find out their work schedule?

Most people find out their schedule less than four weeks ahead of time.
  • 3% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts one week or less ahead of time.
  • 47% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts two weeks ahead of time.
  • 33% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts three weeks ahead of time.
  • 17% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts four weeks or more ahead of time.

Based on data from 66 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Do workers at Apple worry about hours?

Most people don’t worry about getting enough hours.
81% of people report they don’t worry about getting enough hours.
Based on data from 68 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Do Apple workers get to choose the shifts they work?

Some people don’t get to choose which shifts they work.
52% report that they don’t have enough control over which shifts they work.
Based on data from 64 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

How easy is it for Apple workers to change shifts?

Some people find it hard to change shifts.
57% of people report that it’s hard to change shifts if they need to.
Based on data from 244 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and May 2026.

How easy is it to get time off at Apple?

Most people find it easy to get time off.
80% of people report it’s easy to get time off.
Based on data from 90 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Do Apple managers change schedules at the last minute?

Most managers don’t change people’s schedules at the last minute.
92% of people say their manager doesn’t change their shift schedule at the last minute.
Based on data from 61 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Do workers at Apple do extra work that they don't get paid for?

Rarely. Most people don’t do unpaid extra work.
85% of people report that they don’t do extra unpaid work.
Based on data from 67 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

How easy is it to take sick days at Apple?

Most people find it easy to take sick days.
91% of people report that it’s easy to take time off if they are sick.
Based on data from 88 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Is a Apple job good for students?

Most students say this is a good place to work if you’re studying.
90% of students report this is a good place to work if you’re studying.
Based on data from 71 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and May 2026.

Is working at Apple good if you’re a parent or caregiver?

Only some parents and caregivers say this is a good place to work.
35% of people who care for a child or other relative report this isn’t a good place to work.
Based on data from 84 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between April 2025 and April 2026.

Do people at Apple feel treated with respect by their managers?

Most people feel treated with respect by their managers.
82% of people say they’re treated with respect by their managers.
Based on data from 88 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Do people at Apple get to take their breaks without interruption?

Most people get breaks without interruption.
92% of people report that they get to take their breaks without interruption.
Based on data from 98 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Is it stressful to work at Apple?

Most people feel stressed out here.
70% of people say they often feel stressed out at work.
Based on data from 98 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Do people at Apple enjoy their jobs?

Most people enjoy their job.
67% of people report they enjoy their job.
Based on data from 86 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Do people at Apple recommend working with their team?

Only some people recommend working with their team.
48% of people report that they wouldn’t recommend working with their immediate team to a friend.
Based on data from 105 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Do people get enough training when they start at Apple?

Most people got enough training when they started.
88% of people report they got enough training when they started working here.
Based on data from 101 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Do people get support to advance at Apple?

Most people are given support to advance their career here.
In the last year, 69% of people report being given support to advance their career here.
Based on data from 94 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Do people think Apple’s headquarters understands what’s happening where they work?

Most people think headquarters doesn’t understand what’s happening where they work.
79% of people think that this employer’s headquarters or owners don’t have a good understanding of what’s really happening where they work.
Based on data from 80 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.

Do workers feel well informed about how Apple is doing?

Most people feel well informed about how the company is doing.
76% of people feel that they are kept well informed about how the company is doing as a whole.
Based on data from 96 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2025 and May 2026.
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings at Apple in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Optical Engineer

$147.40K - $272.10K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 661 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Optical Engineer

Apple's display technology team features a collaborative environment with creative and elite products & pioneering technologies. Our team provides opportunities for individuals to give across a spectrum of areas. Outstanding engineering excellence and thoroughness are expected and encouraged. Innovation, IP and patent creation are highly supported and valued. Opening the boundaries to design and ship innovative products with outstanding technologies and user experiences are the goals of our team. Join us in crafting solutions the world doesn't know of yet. To be successful, you thrive in a dynamic, agile, multi-disciplinary, and hands-on environment that values engineering excellence, creativity, and innovation.

Description

As an optical engineer focused on novel instrumentations, you will be responsible for designing and developing industry leading optical instruments for metrology systems. These optical instruments are for calibrating and testing optical display modules, across multiple product lines (e.g. vision, phone, watch, mac, pad ...), in NPI (new product introduction) stage.

Responsibilities

  • Design and specify optical architecture of metrology system and key instruments, e.g. imaging and non-imaging optics, image sensing module, photodetectors, light sources, ...
  • Design novel methods for optical instruments calibration.
  • Derive instruments' requirements from metrology needs, and design metrics to quantify optical instruments' performance.
  • Conduct effective FA (failure analysis) & CA (corrective action) for optical instruments and metrology systems, through analytics, numerical modeling, and bench-top testing.
  • Lead optical instrument vendors for customization. Develop performance verification protocol to ensure the instrument performance complies with defined requirements.
  • Provide crisp and rigorous presentation and report, on subjects listed above. And communicate with a broad range of cross-functional teams.
  • Require domestic and international travel for work (up to 20%)

Minimum Qualifications

  • BS and a minimum of 3 years relevant industry experience in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Biophysics, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Thorough understanding and experiences in optical instruments (imaging and non-imaging) design, modeling and performance quantification.
  • Strong analytical model building and problem-solving capability
  • Proficiency in one or more optical modeling tools for imaging optics (e.g. Zemax, LightTools, etc.), and/or physical optics (e.g. FDTD, RCWA, etc.)
  • Ability to communicate clearly and efficiently across a range of technical subject areas with a broad slate of partners, including management, peers, and suppliers.
  • Deep experience in any of the following fields is a plus: AR/VR display, camera lens, camera, OCT, LIDAR, microscopy, spectroscopy, optical wavefront metrology, semiconductor laser, optical grating, prescription glasses, tunable light source, or integrating sphere.

Pay & Benefits

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $147,400 and $272,100, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation.


What Apple employees say

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Benefits

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Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976