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Entry Level Opt Engineer Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Opt Engineer information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$29.1K

$67.3K

$114.6K

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

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level opt engineer in Pittsburgh, PA is $67,338.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $76,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Opt Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA?

The most popular types of Opt Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:

Entry Level Opt Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Opt Engineer job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,338 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Construction Engineer - Entry Level

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT)

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson rating

9.8

Company rating: 9.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 450 rated engineering

Job description

Job Description

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson is a dynamic, 100% employee-owned consulting firm of more than 2,400 professionals that provides a full range of multi-disciplined engineering, architecture, information technology, and related services to public agencies and private clients throughout the United States. JMT is currently ranked #45 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 Design Firms.

JMT's Pittsburgh Construction Management Team is seeking an Entry Level Roadway Construction Engineer to be responsible for engineering design using knowledge of general engineering principles and practices to interpret, organize, execute and coordinate assignments. Immigration sponsorship or support (e.g. H1B, F-1 CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) is not available for this position, except for qualified candidates eligible for the TN visa classification.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Review and interpret plans, site layouts, specifications and construction methods to ensure compliance to legal requirements and safety regulations
  • Performs routine tests on concreate, soils and other materials
  • Measure dimensions and verify level, alignment, and elevation of structures, fixtures, grades and/or pavement to ensure compliance to plans and codes
  • Gathers and maintains record documents
  • Makes field notes and computations

Nonessential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Perform other related duties as assigned

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