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Internship Electro Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Electro-Optical (EO) Engineers at nLIGHT DEFENSE Systems, Inc. are the engine of execution. As a Senior EO Engineer, you are expected to serve as a technical authority and execution leader, not only ...

Electro-Optical (EO) Engineers at nLIGHT DEFENSE Systems, Inc. are the engine of execution. As a Senior EO Engineer, you are expected to serve as a technical authority and execution leader, not only ...

... internship, or academic experience in laser/optics and instrumentation. * Associates degree in Optics & Laser Technology, Physics Technician, Electro-Optics Technology, Engineering Technology or ...

Electro-Optical Software Engineers execute and lead final software and firmware integration for deliverable systems. EO-SW Engineers learn a wide range of multi-disciplinary tools in order to ...

... internship, or academic experience in laser/optics and instrumentation. * Associates degree in Optics & Laser Technology, Physics Technician, Electro-Optics Technology, Engineering Technology or ...

Electro-Optical Engineer Sr Stf

Goleta, CA

$116K - $151K/yr

You will be the Electro Optical Systems Engineer for the Electro Optical (EO/IR) development team at LockheedMartin.Our team creates state of the art infrared (IR) sensors and camera subsystems that ...

Electro-Optical Software Engineers execute and lead final software and firmware integration for deliverable systems. EO-SW Engineers learn a wide range of multi-disciplinary tools in order to ...

... internship, or academic experience in laser/optics and instrumentation. * Associates degree in Optics & Laser Technology, Physics Technician, Electro-Optics Technology, Engineering Technology or ...

... internship, or academic experience in laser/optics and instrumentation. * Associates degree in Optics & Laser Technology, Physics Technician, Electro-Optics Technology, Engineering Technology or ...

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Internship Electro Optical Engineer information

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How much do internship electro optical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship electro optical engineer in the United States is $21.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are optical engineers in demand?

Optical engineers, including those specializing in electro-optical systems, are in demand due to the growth of industries such as telecommunications, defense, and medical imaging. Skills in laser technology, optical design, and relevant software like Zemax or Code V enhance employability in this field.

How to get an internship as an electrical engineer?

To secure an internship as an electrical engineer, candidates should pursue relevant coursework, develop skills in circuit design and programming, and gain hands-on experience through projects or research. Applying to companies with strong engineering programs, preparing a tailored resume, and demonstrating proficiency in tools like MATLAB or CAD can improve chances. Internships often require a student status and may involve technical interviews to assess problem-solving abilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Electro Optical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Electro Optical Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and electrical engineering, typically supported by progress toward a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), lab measurement equipment, and programming languages like MATLAB or Python is highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help interns excel in both independent tasks and collaborative projects. These competencies are crucial for successfully contributing to innovative optical solutions and ensuring precise, high-quality engineering outcomes.

What does an Internship Electro Optical Engineer do?

An Internship Electro Optical Engineer assists in the design, development, and testing of optical and electronic systems, such as lasers, sensors, or imaging devices. Interns typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers, helping with experiments, data analysis, and technical documentation. Their tasks may involve using specialized software to model optical components, assembling prototypes, and participating in team meetings. This role provides hands-on experience and exposure to real-world engineering challenges in the field of electro-optics.

What is the difference between Internship Electro Optical Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectInternship Electro Optical EngineerOptical Engineer
CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of Electrical, Optical, or Physics programsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in R&D labs or manufacturing facilitiesFull-time professional roles in research, development, or manufacturing
Industry UsageUsed for training, entry-level positions, or internships in optics and photonics companiesFull professional roles in optics, photonics, telecommunications, or defense industries

The main difference between an Internship Electro Optical Engineer and an Optical Engineer lies in experience level and employment status. Internships are temporary training positions for students or recent graduates, focusing on gaining practical skills. Optical Engineers are full-time professionals responsible for designing, developing, and testing optical systems. Both roles require knowledge of optics, but the internship is a stepping stone toward a full engineering career in the field.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $500,000 or more annually. High-level roles often require advanced certifications, leadership responsibilities, and work in high-demand industries or companies with lucrative compensation packages.

Is a 3.0 GPA good for internships?

For an internship as an Electro Optical Engineer, a 3.0 GPA is generally considered acceptable, especially if complemented by relevant skills, coursework, or project experience. Many employers value practical experience and technical abilities alongside GPA, so demonstrating proficiency with tools like MATLAB or LabVIEW can enhance your application. However, highly competitive internships may prefer higher GPAs or additional qualifications.

What types of projects or tasks can an Electro Optical Engineering intern expect to work on during their internship?

As an Electro Optical Engineering intern, you can expect to assist with the design, testing, and analysis of optical systems such as lenses, lasers, sensors, or imaging devices. Interns often support senior engineers with prototyping, data collection, and troubleshooting experimental setups in laboratory settings. You may also be tasked with documenting results, preparing reports, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical and electrical engineers. This hands-on experience helps interns develop technical skills and gain insights into industry practices.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Electro Optical Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Electro Optical Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Internship Electro Optical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Internship Electro Optical Engineer jobs include:
Sr. Electro-Optical Engineer

Sr. Electro-Optical Engineer

nLIGHT

Longmont, CO

$170K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Location:Longmont, CO (onsite)
Experience: 10+ years of electro-optical experience
Minimum Education:Master's Degree in Engineering, Science or related field. PhD is preferred.
Compensation:$170,000-$210,000 depending on experience.

Who We Are
nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is one of the nation's leading developers of Directed Energy systems, which is a top modernization priority of the Department of Defense. Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment of high energy laser solutions to the United States military and our allies. Located in Longmont, Colorado, nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is a vertically integrated business that leverages internal capabilities - from semiconductor device through target identification - to develop systems that are both high-performance and cost-effective. We continue to invest in capabilities, facilities and technology to bring leading edge HEL solutions to the warfighter. This is a great opportunity to work at a company that is on the leading edge of the HEL industry and provides a culture of excellence and commitment to delivering solutions to the warfighter and our country.

Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).

Summary:
Electro-Optical (EO) Engineers at nLIGHT DEFENSE Systems, Inc. are the engine of execution. As a Senior EO Engineer, you are expected to serve as a technical authority and execution leader, not only problem-solving and aligning systems during system integration but leading the planning, coordination, and technical execution of complex, multi-disciplinary development and integration efforts.

Senior EO Engineers mentor and help technically guide other engineers and technicians, shaping best practices while learning and applying a broad set of multi-disciplinary tools and techniques ranging from opto-mechanical design and integration methods to software integration, controls, and advanced data analysis.

This role is designed for individuals who have progressed beyond disciplined bench execution and now routinely lead integrated product teams, own subsystem or system-level technical performance, influence programmatic decisions, and interface directly with internal stakeholders and external customers. If you want a career progression opportunity that leads from technical leadership to integrated product team lead and ultimately a technical program or system architect role, delivering complete EO systems to customers, then we are the right place for you.

All applicants must possess or be qualified to obtain a U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Preference will be given to candidates with an existing U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance.Further information on requirements to obtain a security clearance is available at:https://www.dcsa.mil/mc/pv/mbi/gicp/.Please review this information before applying.

Responsibilities:
  • Lead design, development, integration, and test of High Energy Laser (HEL) Weapon Systems and/or HEL Beam Control Systems (BCS).
  • Serve as a system or subsystem technical lead, driving architecture, interfaces, requirements flow-down, and verification strategies.
  • Responsibilities include hardware integration and test, definition of test strategies, data processing, and preparation of formal performance, qualification, and acceptance test documentation.
  • Define, design, and approve complex test setups to evaluate key system performance parameters.
  • Coordinate and technically direct team members to execute complex integration activities across optics, mechanics, electronics, firmware, and software.
  • Provide on-site and remote technical leadership during field tests, including troubleshooting, data analysis, and real-time decision-making.
  • Identify technical risks and develop mitigation plans in coordination with program management.
Required Experience / Capability:
  • Commitment to Excellence. Attention to Detail. Pride in Workmanship.
  • Ability to work in a dynamic environment and maintain composure and strong working relationships under pressure.
  • Ability to independently plan, prioritize, and execute work with minimal oversight, meeting mid- to long-term program milestones.
  • Advanced problem-solving capability, with the ability to synthesize information from multiple technical disciplines to reach sound engineering decisions.
  • Installation, alignment, and integration of optics, electro-optics, and mechanics (COTS and custom). Demonstrated leadership in enforcing cleanliness, contamination control, and process discipline, including cleanroom environments.
  • Recognized expertise in working with laser and electro-optical systems, including safety, reliability, and performance optimization.
  • Exhibit expert-level troubleshooting skills to solve complex and constrained opto-mechanical alignment problems, particularly for ruggedized systems.
  • Author, review, and approve technical reports, test plans, procedures, and customer-facing documentation.
  • Integration of auto-alignment algorithms and methods, including algorithm selection and performance trade studies.
  • Lead integration efforts for real-time control of electro-optical and mechanical components using LabVIEW, MATLAB, firmware, and/or C/C++/C# (normally involving code re-use).
  • Experience with electro-optical systems including acquisition, pointing, and tracking, with demonstrated ownership of system-level performance metrics.
  • Strong working proficiency in MATLAB and/or C/C++/C#; ability to review, modify, and guide software development.
  • Experience in specification and evaluation of optical coating requirements, particularly for high power applications.
  • Experience with optical fiber splicing, polishing, repair/service, and fiber management.
  • Experience mentoring engineers and technicians and providing technical direction across disciplines.
Additional Desired Experience / Capability:
  • Experience in rugged design for optical systems including kinematic, flexure mounting, and optical/structural adhesive mounting.
  • System-level understanding of electro-optical architecture and interface management.
  • Experience in optical system alignment and test methods, including tolerance analysis and alignment planning.
  • Experience in opto-mechanical assembly, including receiving and inspecting components, dry-assembly, and bonding.
  • Experience in thermal management systems and thermal performance trade-offs.
  • STOP analysis (structural, thermal, optical performance).
  • Experience in vibration test, analysis, and isolation methods, particularly jitter analysis for opto-mechanical systems.
  • Experience in finite element analysis (FEA) modeling of vibration and thermal effects.
  • Static structure, fatigue, random vibration, and modal analysis.
  • Experience in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis.
  • Advanced experience with MATLAB and LabVIEW.
  • Experience in Adaptive Optics (AO) Systems and/or High Energy Laser systems.
  • Exposure to MILSTD810 design, analysis, and/or qualification testing.
  • Experience with operation of machining, welding, or fabrication equipment.
Benefits Summary:
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
  • 11 paid Holidays
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents
  • Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100%
  • Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster:Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources atHR@nlightdefense.com.
Employment Type: Full-Time Regular