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Internship Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in California

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$131K - $169K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch ... internship experience qualifies) * 1+ years of experience in a computer programming language (e.g.

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$130K - $169K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch ... internship experience qualifies) * 1+ years of experience in a computer programming language (e.g.

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch ... internship experience qualifies) * 1+ years of experience in a computer programming language (e.g.

PsiQuantum

Optical Packaging Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

The Associate Engineer will build fiber-coupled optical packages with photonic chips and work ... internships and research experience may be considered). * Basic understanding of optical alignment ...

PsiQuantum

Optical Packaging Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

The Associate Engineer will build fiber-coupled optical packages with photonic chips and work ... internships and research experience may be considered). * Basic understanding of optical alignment ...

PsiQuantum

Optical Packaging Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$147K - $190K/yr

The Associate Engineer will build fiber-coupled optical packages with photonic chips and work ... internships and research experience may be considered). * Basic understanding of optical alignment ...

KLA Corporation

Optics Research Scientist

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

The successful candidate will work closely with experienced optical engineers and multi-functional ... Internship or research experience related to optics or imaging systems Minimum Qualifications ...

KLA

Optics Research Scientist

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

The successful candidate will work closely with experienced optical engineers and multi-functional ... Internship or research experience related to optics or imaging systems Minimum Qualifications ...

KLA Corporation

Optics Research Scientist

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

The successful candidate will work closely with experienced optical engineers and multi-functional ... Internship or research experience related to optics or imaging systems Minimum Qualifications ...

Orbotech

Optics Research Scientist

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

The successful candidate will work closely with experienced optical engineers and multi-functional ... Internship or research experience related to optics or imaging systems Minimum Qualifications ...

Actalent

Thermal Test Engineer (Entry Level)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Thermal Test Engineer 30-35/hourly Entry level mechanical/electrical/comp sci grads please apply ... At least one internship or practical experience with a focus on testing is preferred. * Experience ...

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Internship Optical Engineer Entry Level information

What does an internship optical engineer entry level do?

An entry-level internship optical engineer assists in designing, testing, and analyzing optical systems like lenses, lasers, and fiber optics. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping with laboratory experiments, simulations, and data analysis. Typical tasks include building prototypes, running tests, documenting results, and supporting the development of new optical technologies. This internship is a great way to gain hands-on experience and learn about the practical applications of optics in industries such as telecommunications, imaging, and manufacturing.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an internship optical engineer entry level expect?

As an entry-level Optical Engineer intern, you can expect to work on a variety of hands-on projects such as assisting with optical system design, running simulations, assembling prototypes, and conducting laboratory experiments. Interns often collaborate closely with senior engineers and multidisciplinary teams to troubleshoot optical components and optimize performance. You’ll also likely participate in data analysis and documentation, gaining exposure to industry-standard tools and practices. These experiences help build a strong foundation for a career in optical engineering and provide valuable networking opportunities within the organization.

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

To thrive as an Internship Optical Engineer at the entry level, you typically need a background in optical engineering or physics, with knowledge of optics fundamentals and laboratory techniques. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), MATLAB, and data analysis tools is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong teamwork and communication skills help interns stand out. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively supporting optical design projects, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with experienced engineers.

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

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

Internship Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs near you

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$131K - $169K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIELD)
Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use, Starshield is designed for government use, with an initial focus on earth observation, communications, and hosted payloads.
The SpaceX satellite engineering teams develop, produce, and deploy the most cutting-edge satellite free-space optical communication systems and observation payloads in the world. We are looking for engineers to contribute to the development of laser communications terminals and imaging products for the groundbreaking constellation of Starshield satellites. All SpaceX optical systems (laser communication terminal and other optical products) require a blend of theoretical expertise, practical implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex problems in real-time, resource-constrained systems.
As a Starshield optical engineer, you will be responsible for free-space optical system design, validation, and operation. You will shape the future of laser communication systems and directly contribute to mission-critical applications such as next-generation star tracking system for precise navigation in space environments.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Apply optics and photonics knowledge to optical system development, including design, analysis, and validation
  • Represent the optical system in program-level, cross-disciplinary trades and issue resolution
  • Define requirements for high-performant optical systems in challenging environmental conditions
  • Lead optical architecture definition through internal trade studies, concept of operations definition, and risk reduction testing
  • Participate in verification testing, including environmental qualification, performance characterization, reliability testing, and fault injection testing
  • Define and lead field testing of optical experiments and laser communication systems
  • Review test data and lead anomaly investigation and resolution
  • Maintain link budgets, design specifications, and system capabilities data
  • Interface with manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure final designs can be manufactured in accordance with overall project goals
  • Collaborate with software and automation teams to develop tools and protocols for automated optical testing
  • Represent laser communications systems for reliability and risk discussions with internal reliability teams, management, customers, and vendors

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in optical engineering, physics, or other engineering/STEM discipline
  • 2+ years of hands-on laboratory or work experience in optics, photonics, laser technology, or electrical/mechanical design or testing (university lab, student project, or internship experience qualifies)
  • 1+ years of experience in a computer programming language (e.g. C++, MATLAB, and/or Python)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering discipline
  • Proficiency with optical analysis tools such as Zemax
  • Hands-on experience in optical design or system design, integration, and test of laser communication systems
  • Experience with mixed-signal circuits, processors, FPGAs, Ethernet, SERDES, DRAM interfaces (DDR4), I2C, SPI, operational amplifiers, analog to digital and digital to analog converters, and power supply components
  • Opto-mechanical design and analysis experience with precision mounting and steering mechanisms
  • Knowledge of and experience in lasers, photodiodes, fiber optics, optics testing/troubleshooting techniques, and signal integrity principles
  • Knowledge of and experience in free-space optical principles, optical component testing/troubleshooting techniques, precision metrology techniques, manufacturing and integration processes
  • Experience leading development of commercial communications products
  • Experience with hardware development for high-reliability applications
  • Experience with pointing, acquisition, and tracking
  • Knowledge of and experience in atmospheric optical effects
  • Ability to assess risk and make design and development decisions without all available data
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphere
  • Competence with optical test equipment (power meters, interferometer, laser sources)
  • Experience with infrared system alignment and characterization
  • Competence with Python scripting and a Linux operating system environment
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Working extended hours and weekends as needed
  • Note that an active clearance may provide the opportunity for you to work on sensitive SpaceX missions. If so, you will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 1: $105,000.00 - $140,000.00
Level 2: $120,000.00 - $170,000.00
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
Those with an active clearance will receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $20,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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About SpaceX

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Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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