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Adaptive Optics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Firmware Engineer

Gardena, CA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

... optical hardware to its limits. You will own everything from bootloaders and device initialization to timing-critical signal control, adaptive link training, and production firmware validation.

Firmware Engineer

Gardena, CA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

... optical hardware to its limits. You will own everything from bootloaders and device initialization to timing-critical signal control, adaptive link training, and production firmware validation.

As pioneers of co-packaged optics (CPO), we are using light instead of electricity to move data ... Proven experience implementing calibration algorithms (factory and adaptive/in-field) * Strong ...

As pioneers of co-packaged optics (CPO), we are using light instead of electricity to move data ... Proven experience implementing calibration algorithms (factory and adaptive/in-field) * Strong ...

Sr. Financial Analyst

Morgan Hill, CA · On-site

$165K - $190K/yr

Anritsu engages customers as true partners to help develop wireless, optical, microwave/RF, and ... Design and maintain reports in Adaptive, SAC as well as enhance the content and create intuitive ...

Showing results 41-60

Adaptive Optics information

See California salary details

$14

$19

$22

How much do adaptive optics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for adaptive optics in California is $19.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is adaptive optics?

Adaptive optics are systems used to improve the performance of optical devices by correcting distortions in real-time. They are most commonly used in astronomy to compensate for the blurring effects of the Earth's atmosphere, allowing telescopes to capture sharper images of celestial objects. Adaptive optics systems use sensors to detect wavefront distortions and employ deformable mirrors or other devices to adjust the optical path and counteract these distortions. This technology is also used in other fields like vision science and laser communications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in adaptive optics engineering, and why are they important?

To excel in Adaptive Optics engineering, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and mathematics, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), wavefront sensors, and control systems is typically required, along with experience in laboratory instrumentation. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for developing and maintaining complex optical systems that improve imaging performance in fields like astronomy and vision science.

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

Professionals in adaptive optics often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise system alignment, mitigating the effects of rapidly changing atmospheric conditions, and integrating complex hardware and software solutions. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills and close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including optical engineers, astronomers, and software developers. Staying current with technological advancements and participating in regular system calibrations can help address these issues, ensuring optimal performance and reliability of adaptive optics systems.

What is the difference between Adaptive Optics vs Optical Engineer?

AspectAdaptive OpticsOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in optics, physics, or engineering; specialized training in adaptive systemsRequires a degree in optics, physics, or engineering; may include certifications in optical design
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, observatories, aerospace, military applicationsManufacturing, research, product development, telecommunications
Industry UsagePrimarily in astronomy, aerospace, military, and scientific researchBroad industry use including tech, healthcare, manufacturing, and defense

Adaptive Optics specialists focus on developing and implementing systems that correct optical distortions in real-time, often in scientific and aerospace settings. Optical Engineers design and develop optical components and systems across various industries. While both roles require a strong foundation in optics, Adaptive Optics professionals specialize in real-time correction systems, whereas Optical Engineers work on a broader range of optical devices and systems.

What are popular job titles related to Adaptive Optics jobs in California?

For Adaptive Optics jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Adaptive Optics jobs?

Cities in California with the most Adaptive Optics job openings:

Infographic showing various Adaptive Optics job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,969 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Staff Software Engineer - Level 5

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Redondo Beach, CA • On-site

$177K - $265K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
*Please be aware that this position will be contingent upon capturing program award(s), obtaining and maintaining customer and/or business funding, and holding final clearances prior to start date.*
Northrop Grumman's Space Sector is seeking a Staff Software Engineer - Level 5 to join our team of highly qualified, diverse professionals within the Western Region Software Engineering Directorate. This position is located onsite in Redondo Beach, CA.
The job responsibilities of the Staff Software Engineer - Level 5 include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Design, develop, document, integrate, test, and debug software solutions for end-user customers.
• Support the architecture, development, and lifecycle management of embedded and real-time systems.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams-including Systems Engineering, Digital Engineering, Hardware, and Integration & Test-within an Agile development environment.
• Analyze system capabilities to troubleshoot and resolve issues related to program intent, output requirements, data acquisition, programming methods, and control strategies.
• Work in a fast-paced lab environment with rapid development cycles.
*Please be aware that this position will be contingent upon capturing program award(s), obtaining and maintaining customer and/or business funding, and holding final clearances prior to start date.*
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with 12+ years of software development experience; Master's degree in a STEM discipline with 10+ years of software development experience; Ph.D. in a STEM discipline with 8+ years of software development experience.
  • Active U.S. Government Secret security clearance required at the time of application.
  • Strong proficiency in C and C++ development.
  • Extensive experience with VxWorks Real-Time Operating System.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior experience supporting Directed Energy programs
  • Image processing experience
  • Linux/Red Hawk Linux experience
  • Experience with low-level development
  • Experience with Curtis-Wright VPX processors
  • Experience with Acromag AcroPack interface VPX cards
  • Prior experience with MATLAB
  • Experience with adaptive optics processing

Curious about all the exciting developments with the Northrop Grumman Space Sector? Click the link below: https://www.northropgrumman.com/space.
Working at Northrop Grumman is more than just a paycheck. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive at work and in life. For more information on our Total Rewards package, please visit our Total Rewards site: Northrop Grumman Total Rewards.
#LosAngelesSpace
#LI-DB1
Primary Level Salary Range: $177,000.00 - $265,600.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939