Embodiments of the invention are directed to a delivery device and method for deploying an optical analyte sensor. The delivery device comprises hollow tubes configured to operate telescopically. The optical sensor is configured to retract and extend from a distal end of the delivery device, by sliding the telescoping tubes with respect to one another. The delivery device may also have a locking mechanism such that the distal end portion of the sensor will extend to a preset locked position beyond the delivery device, e.g., during calibration and deployment. The device is capable of being used to ship, calibrate, and deploy the sensor while maintaining sterility and avoiding exposure to the external environment.