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Entry Level Opt Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Genesis10

Entry Level Software Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K/yr

... including OPT, CPT, EAD, H-1B, or TN. The only exceptions are for Asylees, Refugees, and TPS Bachelor's degree Programming experience (minimum 6 months), shown on your resume, from academic ...

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Software Engineer (C#/React)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

We do not provide sponsorship or hire students who are currently on OPT, F-1 or J-1 student visas ... Bachelor's degree (Computer Science or Engineering) or related experience * 2 - 4 years of ...

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Software Engineer (C#/React)

Chicago, IL · On-site

We do not provide sponsorship or hire students who are currently on OPT, F-1 or J-1 student visas ... Bachelor's degree (Computer Science or Engineering) or related experience * 2 - 4 years of ...

Reply

Software Engineer (C#/React)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

We do not provide sponsorship or hire students who are currently on OPT, F-1 or J-1 student visas ... Bachelor's degree (Computer Science or Engineering) or related experience * 2 - 4 years of ...

All JobsOpt Engineer JobsEntry Level Opt Engineer JobsEntry Level Opt Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Opt Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$71.5K

$121.6K

How much do entry level opt engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level opt engineer in Chicago, IL is $71,453.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $80,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Entry Level Opt Engineers?

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, and why are they important?

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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Opt Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Opt Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,453 per year, or $34.4 per hour.
Hiring F1 OPT Network Engineers/H1 B with CCNA or CCNP

Hiring F1 OPT Network Engineers/H1 B with CCNA or CCNP

Gms

Schaumburg, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Hello All,
Hope you are doing good.
Global Mobility Solutions Inc is hiring F1 OPT - MS Students in Electrical Engineering / Have Knowledge in Networking .
Hiring is on first come first serve
We file H1B for our employees and GC Processing.
If You are a Experience - Network Engineer / CCNA / CCNP Certified - We will Hire You Directly .and market your profiles.
If your are fresher/ Entry level - We provide you Training based on certain conditions.
Guest House Accommodation is Provided
Training and Lab Facilities are available
Excellent Pay Package
24*7 On Job Support.
For more info - please send your updated resume to : pawani@gmobility.com with your OPT /H1 Status and Salary Expectations.
Once we review your profile - we will reach out to you.
Thanks.
Pawani
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About GMS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

GMS is the leading North American distributor of gypsum wallboard, acoustical ceiling products and other specialty building materials. Founded in 1971, GMS now operates a network of more than 250 distribution centers nationwide. For more information about GMS, visit www.gms.com or any one of our subsidiary company websites.

Industry

Specialty trade contractors

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tucker, GA, US

Year founded

1971

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