As of May 18, 2021, the average salary for an Optical Engineer III in the United States is $139,992 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $67.
However, an Optical Engineer III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Optical Engineer III's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Optical Engineer III's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Optical Engineer I | 2-4 years | $94,189 |
| Optical Engineer II | 4-7 years | $120,288 |
| Optical Engineer III | 7+ years | $139,992 |
| Optical Engineer IV | 7-10 years | $182,697 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Optical Engineer IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how an Optical Engineer III's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 18, 2021For an Optical Engineer III, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Optical Engineer IV role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $182,697 - a projected growth of 31% over your current level.
Salaries for an Optical Engineer III can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $116,877 in 2023 to around $115,032 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Optical Engineer III salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $116,877 |
| 2024 | $116,987 |
| 2025 | $115,032 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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An Optical Engineer III's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, an Optical Engineer III earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of an Optical Engineer III is $176,572.
The highest pay for Optical Engineer III is $154,311.
The lowest pay for Optical Engineer III is $123,937.
Designs and tests optical technologies, systems, and components. Conducts research and development on system specifications, designs, and testing methodologies to optimize, control, or manipulate light for imagery. Utilizes a variety of measuring instruments to test and assess the performance and quality of optical systems or components. Troubleshoots, modifies, and demonstrates design prototypes. Utilizes optical design software and modeling tools such as Zemax and FRED. Requires a bachelor's degree in optical engineering, electrical engineering, physics. Typically reports to a manager. Work is highly independent. May assume a team lead role for the work group. A specialist on complex technical and business matters. Typically requires 7+ years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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