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Junior Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Junior Optical Technician

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Every product is part of a robust developer platform for space data applications. Observable Space ... Role Summary We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Junior Optical Technician to ...

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

Mentor junior and mid-level optical engineers in design methodology, laboratory techniques, modeling, and best practices. * Lead technical reviews, provide constructive feedback, and foster growth of ...

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

Mentor junior and mid-level optical engineers in design methodology, laboratory techniques, modeling, and best practices. * Lead technical reviews, provide constructive feedback, and foster growth of ...

Mentor junior and mid-level optical engineers in design methodology, laboratory techniques, modeling, and best practices. * Lead technical reviews, provide constructive feedback, and foster growth of ...

Jr Optical Engineer

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$82K - $91K/yr

Provide technical direction and guidance to optical technicians and junior engineers as needed. * Support multiple projects simultaneously while meeting project schedules, cost objectives, and ...

Optical Engineer Level 2

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Will mentor junior engineers. * Execute complex engineering tasks involving planning, preparation ... A bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. * Minimum of 2 years of ...

Optical Engineer Level 2

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Will mentor junior engineers. * Execute complex engineering tasks involving planning, preparation ... A bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. * Minimum of 2 years of ...

Optical Engineer Level 2

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Will mentor junior engineers. * Execute complex engineering tasks involving planning, preparation ... A bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. * Minimum of 2 years of ...

Principal Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

We are seeking a Principal Optical Engineer. As a technical lead, you will define and implement ... Mentor junior team members and generate internal training documents and procedures * Contribute as ...

New

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$139K - $258K/yr

Lead complex technical investigations, drive innovative solutions, and mentor junior engineers. * Verify and enhance optical performance, including testing aspects such as OSNR, signal quality, and ...

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA

$151K - $195K/yr

Lead complex technical investigations, drive innovative solutions, and mentor junior engineers. * Verify and enhance optical performance, including testing aspects such as OSNR, signal quality, and ...

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA

$151K - $195K/yr

Lead complex technical investigations, drive innovative solutions, and mentor junior engineers. * Verify and enhance optical performance, including testing aspects such as OSNR, signal quality, and ...

Principal Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

We are seeking a Principal Optical Engineer. As a technical lead, you will define and implement ... Mentor junior team members and generate internal training documents and procedures * Contribute as ...

New

We are seeking a Principal Optical Engineer. As a technical lead, you will define and implement ... Mentor junior team members and generate internal training documents and procedures * Contribute as ...

New

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$139K - $228K/yr

Lead complex technical investigations, drive innovative solutions, and mentor junior engineers. * Verify and enhance optical performance, including testing aspects such as OSNR, signal quality, and ...

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Junior Optical Engineer information

See salary details

$33.5K

$71.8K

$109.5K

How much do junior optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior optical engineer in the United States is $71,799.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Junior Optical Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Optical Engineer, you need a solid background in optics, physics, and mathematics, often supported by a bachelor's degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or CODE V), basic laboratory equipment, and CAD tools is commonly expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you work efficiently within engineering teams and present findings clearly. These skills ensure precise design, troubleshooting, and collaborative project development in this technically demanding role.

What are some typical projects or tasks a Junior Optical Engineer might work on?

As a Junior Optical Engineer, you may assist in designing, testing, and evaluating optical systems such as lenses, imaging devices, or sensors under the supervision of senior engineers. Your responsibilities often include running simulations, performing hands-on experiments in the lab, analyzing data, and contributing to technical reports. You’ll also collaborate closely with colleagues in mechanical and electrical engineering to integrate optical components into larger systems. This role often provides opportunities to learn from mentors and gain hands-on experience with real-world applications, which is valuable for long-term career growth in the optical engineering field.

What is a Junior Optical Engineer job?

A Junior Optical Engineer is an entry-level engineering professional specializing in optical systems, components, and technologies. They assist in designing, testing, and optimizing optical devices such as lenses, lasers, and imaging systems. Their responsibilities may include conducting experiments, analyzing data, and supporting senior engineers in research and development. Strong analytical skills, knowledge of optics principles, and proficiency with simulation tools are often required. This role provides foundational experience for growing into more advanced optical engineering positions.

More about Junior Optical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Junior Optical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Junior Optical Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Junior Optical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Junior Optical Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Junior Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,799 per year, or $34.5 per hour.
Junior Optical Engineer or Physicist with Security Clearance

Junior Optical Engineer or Physicist with Security Clearance

Valkyrie Enterprises

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position:  Junior Optical Engineer or Physicist (Job ID:4338)
Location:  Huntsville, AL Job Id:  4338
# of Openings:  2 Junior Optical Engineer or Physicist Purpose: Valkyrie Enterprises is seeking a Junior Optical Engineer or Physicist * At Huntsville, AL and Redstone Arsenal, AL for weapon system sensor/seeker simulation, testing, and evaluation, development, planning and analysis, which may include: * Optical system requirements, design, development and analysis * Scene projector optics and integration with seeker/sensor * Laser and infrared radiometry and testing of cameras and sources. * The ideal candidate will have experience in optical systems, optical engineering, sensors/seeker testing, and hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) simulation. * The successful candidate will play a role in expanding our technology solutions to customers and stakeholder satisfaction. * Development support activities will include design, assembly, alignment, and testing of optical systems, illumination systems, and laser systems. Operational support activities will include configuration, radiometric calibration, and operation of specialized equipment in support of the testing of missile sensors/seekers and other electro-optical sensors. Job Description: * Provide optical engineering design, development, integration, test, verification and analysis expertise to activities for scene projection and weapon system integration and test. * Serve as an optical engineering team member and coordinate with other optics subject matter experts (SMEs) * Design and develop laser and optical solutions for testing with seekers/sensors * Development support activities will include design, assembly, alignment, and testing of optical systems, illumination systems, and laser systems * Operational support activities will include configuration, radiometric calibration, and operation of specialized equipment in support of the testing of missile sensors/seekers and other electro-optical sensors * Position requires comprehensive knowledge to resolve complex problems and provide solutions * Collaborate continuously and mentor team members and others. * Support the preparation of regular program status reports for senior leadership and government customers * Identify and mitigate program risks while developing contingency plans Qualifications: * Must have a BA/BS in optical engineering, physics or related area and at least 0-10 years of related experience. * Must have the ability to conduct research and perform analysis on optical requirements and designs. * Must have optical design software experience for optical system design and ray tracing. * Must have higher level language programming (Matlab, Python, or equivalent) for data analysis and visualization. * Must have passion for solving problems and providing workable solutions. * Must have strong analytical and reasoning skills and ability to visualize optical/laser systems. * Must have all-round communication skills and ability to work individually and collaboratively. * Must be self-motivated and directed, with keen attention to detail. * Must have analytical and creative problem-solving abilities. * Must have customer service orientation. Desired Qualifications: * Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree or PhD in Optic Engineering,Physics and/or related degree, preferred. * Experience with optical design, assembly, ray tracing and/or HWIL testing, preferred. * Experience with HWIL equipment, such as Laser and/or Electro-optical Infrared (EOIR) Scene Projectors, sources, sensors and/or optics, preferred. * Experience in ZEMAX, Code V, OSLO, or equivalent software languages, preferred. * Experience with Department of Defense (DoD) programs, preferred. * Prefer an Active Secret clearance  Security Requirements: * Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance. Travel Requirements: * None to occasional travel; 10-25% or less * If position requires travel by domestic flight or access to secure federal facilities/military bases, candidate must be able to obtain (by start of position) and maintain appropriate identification credentials, such as REAL ID. (More information regarding REAL ID can be found: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id). Physical Requirements: * Remaining in a stationary position, often standing, or sitting for prolonged periods * Able to sit and work on a computer for long periods of time * Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another * Communicating with others to exchange information * Light work that includes moving objects up to 25 pounds Valkyrie strictly adheres to a policy of equal employment opportunity. This policy is based on Valkyrie’s commitment to hire and retain qualified employees consistent with position requirements; and to seek, employ, promote and treat all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, pregnancy, childbirth, physical disability, mental disability, age, military status or protected veteran status, marital status, registered domestic partner or civil union status, gender (including sex stereotyping and gender identity or expression), medical condition, genetic information or sexual orientation or other protected characteristics. Additionally, Valkyrie Enterprises provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid life and disability insurances, 401k with match, education reimbursement, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO). Apply for this Position