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Internship Optical Engineer Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Neuralink

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$86K - $143K/yr

We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which includes ... Temporary Employees & Interns excluded

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$115K - $145K/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.

Onto

Staff Optical Engineer

Budd Lake, NJ · On-site

$115K - $172K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer will contribute to system development, testing, and continuous ... internship, or industry experience) * Familiarity with at least one optical simulation or design ...

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

$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.

Onto

Staff Optical Engineer

Budd Lake, NJ · On-site

$115K - $172K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer will contribute to system development, testing, and continuous ... internship, or industry experience) * Familiarity with at least one optical simulation or design ...

Advantest

Optical Engineering Intern

San Jose, CA · On-site

We are seeking an Optical Engineering intern to lead the optical validation of our automated mating system for optical connectors used for Silicon Photonic (SiPh) and Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) devices.

ASML

Co-Op - Optical Engineer (Internship)

Wilton, CT · On-site

Using Optical engineering expertise the candidate is expected to perform work in some of these general area of Optical Engineering: * Perform Optical design, optical tolerancing and modeling with ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK) The Starlink Space Lasers team develops, produces, and ... internship experience qualifies) * 1+ years of experience in a computer programming language (e.g.

SpaceX

Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK) The Starlink Space Lasers team develops, produces, and ... internship experience qualifies) * 1+ years of experience in a computer programming language (e.g.

SpaceX

Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK) The Starlink Space Lasers team develops, produces, and ... internship experience qualifies) * 1+ years of experience in a computer programming language (e.g.

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Internship Optical Engineer Intern information

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

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship optical engineer intern in the United States is $19.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectInternship Optical Engineer InternOptical Engineer
CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of optical engineering, physics, or related programBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in R&D labs or manufacturing facilitiesFull-time professional setting, including design, testing, and development
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies offering entry-level or training roles in opticsEstablished role in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, and consumer electronics

The Internship Optical Engineer Intern is a temporary, entry-level position designed for students or recent graduates gaining practical experience. In contrast, an Optical Engineer is a full-time professional responsible for designing, testing, and implementing optical systems. The internship provides foundational exposure, while the optical engineer role involves advanced responsibilities and career development.

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

To thrive as an Optical Engineer Intern, you need a solid understanding of optics, physics, and mathematics, generally supported by progress toward a bachelor's or master's degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laboratory equipment, and data analysis tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies enable you to contribute to precise optical designs, effective teamwork, and successful project outcomes in a fast-paced engineering environment.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an Optical Engineer Intern expect during their internship?

As an Optical Engineer Intern, you can expect to work on tasks such as assisting with optical system design, conducting laboratory experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and helping with the assembly and testing of optical components. Interns often collaborate closely with senior engineers and multidisciplinary teams to solve real-world optical challenges. The work environment is typically hands-on and fast-paced, offering valuable opportunities to develop technical skills and gain exposure to advanced optical technologies. Regular meetings and feedback sessions help interns grow professionally and integrate into the team.

What does an Optical Engineer Intern do?

An Optical Engineer Intern assists in the design, development, and testing of optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, and fiber optics. They work under the guidance of experienced optical engineers to analyze optical performance, conduct experiments, and help solve technical challenges. Their tasks may include using simulation software, assembling optical setups, collecting data, and preparing technical reports. This internship provides hands-on experience and exposure to real-world projects in the field of optics.
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What cities are hiring for Internship Optical Engineer Intern jobs? Cities with the most Internship Optical Engineer Intern job openings:
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Internship Optical Engineer Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Internship Optical Engineer Intern job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,174 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Neuralink

Austin, TX • On-site

$86K - $143K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

About Neuralink:
We are creating devices that enable a bi-directional interface with the brain. These devices allow us to restore movement to the paralyzed, restore sight to the blind, and revolutionize how humans interact with their digital world.
Team Description:
The Robot Optics Team is seeking Optical Engineers passionate about shaping the future of operating rooms. We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which includes working on our surgical robotics, supporting operating room equipment, and manufacturing custom consumables. The core device we work on is the robotic system that performs implant insertions. Key subsystems include 2D and 3D machine vision cameras, optical coherence tomography, and surgical site illuminators.
Our team oversees the entire product lifecycle of all optical subsystems across multiple robot versions, from ideation and design through production, testing, and maintenance. We also design hardware for producing and inspecting consumables, such as laser-machined needle cartridges. As we manufacture a significant portion of our hardware in-house, our core activities include bring-up testing, designing hardware acceptance testers, and overseeing manufacturing processes.
Job Description and Responsibilities:
As an Optical Engineer at Neuralink, you will develop custom optics and imaging systems used directly in our surgical robot and associated consumables-manufacturing systems. These systems impact everything from sub-micron conventional imaging and laser scanning imaging to non-imaging optical power delivery. You will have the opportunity to work closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers on the Robotics Team and collaborate with neuroscientists and biologists in the rest of the company. You will be responsible for designs from conception through to implementation as well as prototyping and building these optical systems quickly with the rest of the team. Other job responsibilities will include:
  • Designing and simulating optical imaging systems
  • Testing, verification, and maintenance of robot vision systems
  • Designing and developing custom laser interferometry systems and manufacturing systems
  • Testing and verification of optics consumables
  • Building and testing of beam-scanning instruments
  • Developing image acquisition and processing software
  • Researching and developing new imaging technologies for robotic surgeries
  • Preparing relevant documentation and SOPs for robot optics

Required Qualifications:
  • Evidence of exceptional ability in optical engineering or a related field
  • Bachelor of Science or higher-level degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering
  • 3+ years of optical engineering experience
  • 2+ years of experience simulating and designing optics in Zemax or equivalent software
  • Practical experience in designing, testing, and reliability hardening optical systems
  • Basic computer skills and proficiency in Google Docs, Google Drive, and Gmail

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in designing and testing of in-vivo imaging systems
  • Experience in handling high power laser instruments
  • Basic understanding in laser interferometry or optical coherence tomography
  • Hands-on experience in fabricating, terminating, and splicing optical fibers
  • Software engineering experience in developing scripts for instrument testing

Expected Compensation:
The anticipated base salary for this position is expected to be within the following range. Your actual base pay will be determined by your job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. We also believe in aligning our employees' success with the company's long-term growth. As such, in addition to base salary, Neuralink offers equity compensation (in the form of Restricted Stock Units (RSU)) for all full-time employees.
Base Salary Range:
$86,000-$143,000 USD
What We Offer:
Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits listed below.
  • An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and most talented experts from different fields
  • Growth potential; we rapidly advance team members who have an outsized impact
  • Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan
  • Paid holidays
  • Commuter benefits
  • Meals provided
  • Equity (RSUs) *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded
  • 401(k) plan *Interns initially excluded until they work 1,000 hours
  • Parental leave *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded
  • Flexible time off *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded

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