Log InSign Up
Article

What does an Optical Engineer do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

An optical engineer is someone who designs and builds optical systems. This can include anything from telescopes to microscopes to lasers. They use their knowledge of physics and mathematics to figure out how to make these devices work correctly.

Optical Engineer job duties include:

  • Research, design, develop, and test optical systems and components
  • Analyze images and data to determine the best way to improve optical systems
  • Select materials and coatings for optical elements to minimize reflection, scattering, and other optical losses
  • Design experiments to test the performance of optical systems and components
  • Model the propagation of light through optical systems using computer software
  • Use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create models and drawings of optical systems
  • Conduct research on the properties of light and materials to develop new ways to improve optical systems
  • Present findings and recommendations to clients or managers
  • Write reports detailing the research, design, development, and testing of optical systems

Optical Engineer Job Requirements

An optical engineer is someone who designs and develops optical systems. This can include anything from microscopes to telescopes. In order to become an optical engineer, one must have at least a bachelor's degree in engineering. It is also beneficial to have experience working with optics. There are many different types of certification that an optical engineer can get, but it is not required.

Optical Engineer Skills

  • Design
  • Optics
  • Fabrication
  • Testing
  • Packaging
  • Alignment
  • Tolerances
  • CAD
  • Zemax
  • Matlab
  • Asphere

Related: Top Optical Engineer Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Optical Engineer

An optical engineer is someone who designs and builds devices that use or control light. This can include things like lasers, telescopes, and fiber optic cable. If you’re interested in a career in optical engineering, there are a few things you need to know.

First, you’ll need to get a good education. A bachelor’s degree in engineering is a good start, but many optical engineers have advanced degrees. You’ll also need to be good at math and science, since a lot of optical engineering involves physics and calculus.

Second, you should try to get some experience working with optics. This can be through an internship or a job in a related field. It will give you a better understanding of how optics work and how to design devices that use them.

Third, it’s important to keep up with new developments in optics. Technology is always changing, and new materials and methods are constantly being developed. As an optical engineer, you need to be aware of these changes so you can incorporate them into your designs.

If you’re interested in becoming an optical engineer, the best way to start is by getting a good education and gaining some experience in the field. Keep up with new developments, and you’ll be on your way to success in this exciting field.

Related: Optical Engineer Resume Example

Related: Optical Engineer Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

Similar articles