ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Opt Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

QinetiQ

Associate Quality Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Position Overview QinetiQ Inc. is looking to hire an entry-level Quality Assurance Engineer to work ... QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 1 and let us know the nature of your request and contact ...

Sonsoft Inc

Microstrateg Developer

Los Angeles, CA

Note: - * Strong MSTR developer with experience in creating reports, documents and dashboards ... No OPT-EAD & H1B Consultants please. * Please mention your Visa Status in your email or resume

ATR International

Solder Assembler

Poway, CA · On-site

$25.96 - $27.26/hr

Please Note: This is not an entry-level or learn-on-the-job position. We are looking for ... ATR International, Inc. cannot sponsor work visas (H-1B, F-1 STEM OPT with I-983, or similar)

ATR International

Electronic Bench Technician

Poway, CA · On-site

$25.96 - $27.26/hr

Please Note: This is not an entry-level or learn-on-the-job position. We are looking for ... ATR International, Inc. cannot sponsor work visas (H-1B, F-1 STEM OPT with I-983, or similar)

CSI Professionals

Be Seen First

IT Technical Support (Entry-Level)

Glendale, CA · On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

The role supports troubleshooting, system maintenance, basic programming, and day-to-day technical ... S. work authorization, including F-1 CPT/OPT, EAD, and other applicable employment authorization.

New

previous page

Showing results 21-34

All JobsOpt Engineer JobsEntry Level Opt Engineer JobsEntry Level Opt Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Opt Engineer information

What is an entry level opt engineer?

Entry Level Opt Engineers are professionals who have recently started their careers in optical engineering. They typically work on the design, testing, and integration of optical systems such as lenses, lasers, and fiber optics for various industries, including telecommunications, healthcare, and manufacturing. These engineers often assist senior team members, perform experiments, collect data, and help troubleshoot optical components. They usually hold a bachelor's degree in optical engineering, physics, or a related field, and may receive on-the-job training to develop their skills further.

What is the difference between Entry Level Opt Engineer vs Optical Technician?

AspectEntry Level Opt EngineerOptical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in optics, physics, or engineeringAssociate's degree or technical certification in optics or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and development in labs or engineering settingsAssembly, calibration, and maintenance in manufacturing or lab environments
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, research labs, optical device manufacturersOptical labs, manufacturing plants, healthcare facilities

Entry Level Opt Engineers focus on designing and testing optical systems, requiring a degree in engineering or physics. Optical Technicians handle assembly and calibration of optical devices, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the optics industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level opt engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Opt Engineer, you need a strong background in optics, physics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laboratory measurement tools, and CAD systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with teams and presenting technical findings. These skills and qualifications enable precise optical system design, efficient troubleshooting, and successful integration into multidisciplinary engineering projects.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level opt engineers when transitioning from academia to industry?

Entry Level Opt Engineers often find that industry projects require faster turnaround times and more collaboration compared to academic work. Adapting to the use of commercial optical design software, learning company-specific protocols, and effectively communicating technical details with cross-functional teams can be challenging at first. Additionally, balancing multiple projects simultaneously and aligning design solutions with customer requirements are key aspects that may differ from academic research. Proactively seeking mentorship and being open to feedback can help ease this transition.

What are the most commonly searched types of Opt Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Opt Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs in California?

For Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Opt Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Opt Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Associate Quality Engineer

QinetiQ

Novato, CA • On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Company Overview
We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).
QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.
Why Join QinetiQ US?
If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.
Position Overview
QinetiQ Inc. is looking to hire an entry-level Quality Assurance Engineer to work at our busy production facility in Franklin, MA.The selected candidate will be responsible for the following:
Responsibilities
  • Quality Assurance position working in an AS9100 environment
  • Responsible for creation of Quality Assurance Data Packages
  • Review Quality Assurance Data packages for accuracy and completeness
  • Verify product documentation meets all drawing, quality clause and specification requirements
  • Responsible for supporting incoming, in-process, and final inspections of electromechanical hardware, textiles, and composites
  • Verify product conformance to program specifications, drawings and acceptance tests
  • Contribute to Material Review Board (MRB) activities, perform root cause analysis and participate in corrective action process
  • Coordinate problem resolution with the engineering, manufacturing and program teams
  • Capture and combine inspection data and supplier data packages for maintenance and distribution to customer per requirements
  • Perform First Article Inspections per AS9102
  • Support Quality Management System (QMS), AS9100 and CMMI processes and perform audits
  • Assist with development and review of procedures & work instructions
  • Support assigned programs in accordance with detailed Quality Plans
  • Interface with engineering, manufacturing, program office and configuration management
  • Support source inspection at supplier facility (less than 10% travel)
  • Review and approve Engineering Changes per assigned programs
  • Perform all other related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications
  • BS degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field
  • Must be proficient in Windows, MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint
  • Possess good technical communications and team building skills
  • Ability to problem solve and critically think
  • Self-starter able to prioritize tasks and work independently
  • Excellent communications skills
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a DOD security clearance if required.

Preferred Qualifications
  • 1-2 years of Quality Engineering Experience preferred
  • Experience with MIL SPEC paint, plating and finish systems
  • Certified Internal auditor
  • Certified IPC-A-610/620 Inspector
  • Recent experience working in an ISO9000 or AS9100 environment
  • Experience working on DOD electromechanical products
  • Experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing in accordance with ANSI/ASME Y14.5

Pay Transparency
The salary range for this role is $64,400 - $95,800 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. QinetiQ US considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Company EEO Statement
Accessibility/Accommodation:
If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to staffing@us.QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 1 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.
QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.

Apply