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Junior Opt Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

SHAZAM

Software Engineer

Johnston, IA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Conduct code reviews and provide constructive feedback to peers and junior engineers * Contribute ... J-1, OPT, CPT or any other employment-based visa). Please be aware that SHAZAM may use an ...

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Junior Opt Engineer information

What are some common challenges a Junior Opt Engineer might face when starting in the field?

As a Junior Opt Engineer, one common challenge is quickly learning to work with complex optical systems and precision instruments, often requiring hands-on troubleshooting and calibration. Adapting to strict documentation and quality standards in industries like telecommunications, defense, or medical devices can also be demanding. Additionally, collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical engineers, software developers, and project managers—requires good communication skills and a willingness to learn from more experienced colleagues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Opt Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Opt Engineer, you need a solid background in optics, physics, or engineering, often with a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laboratory measurement tools, and CAD systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for designing, analyzing, and improving optical systems while collaborating efficiently within multidisciplinary teams.

What is the difference between Junior Opt Engineer vs Optical Technician?

AspectJunior Opt EngineerOptical Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certification preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of optical systems in labs or officesAssembly, calibration, and maintenance of optical devices in labs or manufacturing settings
Employer & Industry UsageOptical engineering firms, tech companies, research institutionsManufacturers, labs, and service providers in optics and photonics

The Junior Opt Engineer typically focuses on designing and developing optical systems, requiring higher education and technical knowledge. In contrast, Optical Technicians mainly handle the assembly, calibration, and maintenance of optical equipment, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the optics industry but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

What are Junior Opt Engineers?

Junior Opt Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, and fiber optics. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, supporting tasks like system modeling, prototyping, and data analysis. Junior Opt Engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to help improve optical products or technologies used in industries like telecommunications, medical devices, and aerospace.
What are popular job titles related to Junior Opt Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Junior Opt Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Opt Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Opt Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Junior Opt Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Junior Opt Engineer job openings:
Junior Opt Engineer jobs near you
Software Engineer

Software Engineer

SHAZAM

Johnston, IA • On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

SHAZAM recognizes that financial institutions build better communities, and this drives our passion to strengthen financial institutions. We are a trusted partner to our valued customers providing answers, choice, and innovation with an impeccable level of customer service – a level unmatched in the industry.


And here’s the best part - we’re a national company that offers a small-company feel, a cultural balance that’s hard to come by but very real at SHAZAM. Your growth and development are top priorities and you’ll be surrounded by talented individuals and postured to make a real difference in the company. As a team member at SHAZAM, you’ll be an essential part of our mission as we work together strengthening financial institutions.


This is a hybrid position based out of our Johnston, IA office.


What we’re looking for:


SHAZAM is looking for a Software Engineer to join our team. As a Software Engineer, you will be responsible for supporting the development, maintenance and improvement of software applications with minimal guidance from more experienced engineers. This position focuses on executing complex foundational engineering practices, writing clear and reliable code, assisting with troubleshooting and contributing to well-defined tasks throughout the software development lifecycle (SDLC).



What you'll do:

  • Write clean, reliable, scalable, and testable code using Python and C++
  • Design production‑quality solutions with attention to maintainability, performance, and long‑term value
  • Participate in all phases of the SDLC: planning, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance
  • Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve moderately complex software issues
  • Collaborate with product partners and cross‑functional teams, clearly communicating technical details and tradeoffs
  • Conduct code reviews and provide constructive feedback to peers and junior engineers
  • Contribute to process and tooling improvements by identifying inefficiencies and proposing actionable solutions
  • Research and evaluate new technologies, tools, and approaches to solve engineering challenges
  • Create and maintain clear technical documentation for implemented features
  • Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) and help improve system reliability, scalability, and monitoring
  • Serve as a subject‑matter expert for a specific application, subsystem, or process
  • Participate in an on‑call rotation with support and guidance


What you need:

  • Minimum of 3 years of professional software development experience and proficiency with the programming languages Python and C++
  • Working knowledge of data structures, algorithms, and object‑oriented design principles
  • Familiarity with common software engineering practices including version control (Git), testing, and debugging
  • Experience using modern development tools and collaboration platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams).
  • Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to connect complex concepts and design effective solutions
  • Clear verbal and written communication skills, especially when discussing technical topics
  • Self‑motivated with a growth mindset and eagerness to learn new technologies


What’s in it for you:


  • A mission-driven company with a strong sense of purpose
  • A hybrid work environment that values flexibility and collaboration
  • Opportunities for professional development and career growth
  • A culture that values innovation, integrity, and community impact
  • Excellent benefits:
    • Health, dental, and vision insurance
    • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
    • Flexible spending and health savings accounts
    • Life insurance and short- and long-term disability provided at no cost
    • Time away from work – PTO, VTO, paid parental leave, and company holidays
    • Educational assistance


Actual compensation is based on various factors, such as geographic location, experience, education, and/or skill level, and is finalized at the time of offer.


SHAZAM is an equal opportunity employer, including those with disabilities or status as a protected veteran. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.


Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for employment-based visa sponsorship now or in the future; ITS, Inc./SHAZAM will not sponsor applicants for U.S. work visa status for this opportunity (no sponsorship is available for H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, F-1, J-1, OPT, CPT or any other employment-based visa).


Please be aware that SHAZAM may use an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool to assist in the review and screening of job applications for this position. The AI system is designed to help our team efficiently identify qualified candidates by identifying relevant skills and experience within submitted applications. All final hiring decisions are made by our hiring team.


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