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Optical Alignment Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NCSL International

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87.10 - $157.45/hr

Play a hands-on role in laboratory activities, including optical alignment, integration, testing, and characterization of components and prototype systems. * Evaluate and mature emerging optical ...

AEI-CIG

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$110K - $200K/yr

Support optical alignment, packaging, and assembly development * Troubleshoot optical system performance issues and implement improvements * Develop technical reports, specifications, and validation ...

Koitecc Solutions

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87.10 - $157.45/hr

Play a hands-on role in laboratory activities, including optical alignment, integration, testing, and characterization of components and prototype systems. * Evaluate and mature emerging optical ...

Atln

Sr. Principal Optical Design Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

$117.64 - $211.83/hr

Provide design input on optical alignment techniques and optical alignment tools and metrology (interferometers, spectrophotometers, autocollimators, theodolites, measuring/toolmaker microscope ...

KLA

Senior Optical Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$147K - $190K/yr

Your work will include optical system design, optical alignment methodology, and analysis of various optical modules. You will also lead the design of a custom metrology system to verify and adjust ...

Leidos

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

You will also play a hands-on role in laboratory activities, including optical alignment, integration, testing, and characterization of components and prototype systems. Working closely with senior ...

Orbotech

Senior Optical Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

Your work will include optical system design, optical alignment methodology, and analysis of various optical modules. You will also lead the design of a custom metrology system to verify and adjust ...

KLA Corporation

Senior Optical Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

Your work will include optical system design, optical alignment methodology, and analysis of various optical modules. You will also lead the design of a custom metrology system to verify and adjust ...

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Optical Alignment information

See California salary details

$10

$21

$36

How much do optical alignment jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical alignment in California is $21.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is optical alignment?

Optical alignment is the process of positioning and adjusting optical components, such as lenses, mirrors, or lasers, so that light travels accurately through an optical system. This ensures that the system achieves optimal performance, such as focusing light correctly or directing beams precisely. Optical alignment is critical in industries like telecommunications, manufacturing, medical devices, and scientific research, where precision is essential. Technicians use specialized tools and techniques to achieve this alignment, often working in cleanroom environments to maintain high standards.

What are some common challenges faced in an optical alignment role and how can they be managed?

Professionals in Optical Alignment often encounter challenges such as achieving precise tolerances under tight deadlines, managing environmental factors like vibration or temperature fluctuations, and troubleshooting alignment issues with complex optical systems. Success in this role requires strong attention to detail, patience, and the ability to follow meticulous procedures. Collaborating closely with engineers and technicians is essential to resolve issues efficiently and maintain quality standards. Continuous learning and adapting to new alignment technologies can also help overcome these challenges and support career advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in optical alignment, and why are they important?

To excel in Optical Alignment, you need a strong background in optics, precision measurement, and mechanical assembly, often supported by a degree or certification in optics, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with alignment tools such as interferometers, laser systems, autocollimators, and optical design software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure accurate alignment of optical components, optimal system performance, and the prevention of costly errors in high-precision environments.

What is the difference between Optical Alignment vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical AlignmentOptical Technician
CertificationsOften requires technical training or certifications in optics or laser systemsRequires certifications in optical manufacturing or lab procedures
Work EnvironmentInvolves precise setup in labs, manufacturing, or research facilitiesWorks in labs, manufacturing plants, or repair shops
Job FocusAligns optical components for precision systemsAssembles, tests, and repairs optical devices
Industry UsageCommon in aerospace, defense, and research sectorsUsed in optical manufacturing, repair, and production

Optical Alignment specialists focus on precisely aligning optical components within systems, requiring specialized skills and certifications. Optical Technicians handle the assembly, testing, and repair of optical devices, often working in manufacturing or repair environments. While both roles involve optics, Optical Alignment emphasizes precision setup, whereas Optical Technicians focus on device fabrication and maintenance.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Alignment jobs in California?

The most popular types of Optical Alignment jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Alignment jobs in California?

For Optical Alignment jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Alignment jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Alignment jobs in California are:

Optical Alignment jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Alignment job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,009 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Senior Optical Alignment Engineer - Optical Solutions R&D

Koch Industries

Fremont, CA • On-site

$180K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Koch Industries rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 542 rated manufacturers

Job description

Molex possesses a rich heritage in the optical industry, delivering high-performance, field-proven optical solutions spanning components, modules, and fully integrated line cards. We provide cutting-edge wavelength management and amplifier technologies, supported by deep optical, mechanical, electrical, and software integration capabilities. These strengths enable Molex to serve the evolving needs of high-density, high-bandwidth, and flexible optical networks.
The Senior Optical Alignment Engineer will lead the strategy and implementation of optical coupling of photonic components to laser diodes for advanced packages (e.g., CPO, ELSFP). This role is responsible for alignment equipment and processes to achieve sub-micron stability for long-term reliability. The position requires close collaboration with R&D and product design teams, manufacturing, suppliers, and customers to ensure laser components meet stringent optical, mechanical, and Telcordia reliability requirements.
What You Will Do
  • Provide technical leadership to design novel optical assemblies for coupling III-V laser diodes with high efficiency
  • Design corresponding fiber mounts/assembly that includes components (e.g., fiber lens, lenses, PICs, SOA, VBG); Specify requirements for optical alignment equipment
  • Develop processes for submicron alignment (x, y, z, f), solder or epoxy attach of components (e.g., laser diode, ceramic mounts)
  • Partner with R&D and operation teams to ensure alignment equipment/processes are compatible with manufacturable, high-yield assembly flows
  • Define and oversee pre-qualification testing to verify submicron optical stability for Telcordia qualification
  • Support failure analysis investigations and corrective actions associated with optical misalignment, working with internal teams, suppliers, and customers
  • Work intimately with laser diode experts to create optimized optical designs for high coupling efficiency

Who You Are (Basic Qualifications)
  • PhD in Optics, Photonics, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field
  • 10+ years of industry R&D experience developing optoelectronic packages transferred to manufacturing environments
  • Hands-on experience specifying the design of optical alignment equipment to achieve submicron tolerances
  • Experience running Optics software package/s (e.g., Zemax) to optimize optical designs
  • Knowledgeable of various optical components specifications (e.g., laser diodes, gratings, mirrors, lenses, PIC, SOA)
  • Experience with stable attachment methods (e.g., glass frit, solder, epoxy)
  • Experience with qualification methodologies (e.g., GR-468), reliability testing, and statistical analysis tools
  • Experience with optical-packaging failure modes, with a demonstrated track record in failure mode analysis and resolution
  • Experience with New Product Introduction (NPI) methodology: design, verification, qualification, release to manufacturing
  • Experience effectively communicating with suppliers, customers, and cross-functional internal teams

For this role, we anticipate paying $180,000- $250,000 per year. This role is eligible for variable pay, issued as a monetary bonus or in another form.
At Koch companies, we are entrepreneurs. This means we openly challenge the status quo, find new ways to create value and get rewarded for our individual contributions. Any compensation range provided for a role is an estimate determined by available market data. The actual amount may be higher or lower than the range provided considering each candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, and geographic location. If you have questions, please speak to your recruiter about the flexibility and detail of our compensation philosophy.
Hiring Philosophy
All Koch companies value diversity of thought, perspectives, aptitudes, experiences, and backgrounds. We are Military Ready and Second Chance employers. Learn more about our hiring philosophy here .
Who We Are
At Koch, employees are empowered to do what they do best to make life better. Learn how our business philosophy helps employees unleash their potential while creating value for themselves and the company.
Our Benefits
Our goal is for each employee, and their families, to live fulfilling and healthy lives. We provide essential resources and support to build and maintain physical, financial, and emotional strength - focusing on overall wellbeing so you can focus on what matters most. Our benefits plan includes - medical, dental, vision, flexible spending and health savings accounts, life insurance, ADD, disability, retirement, paid vacation/time off, educational assistance, and may also include infertility assistance, paid parental leave and adoption assistance. Specific eligibility criteria is set by the applicable Summary Plan Description, policy or guideline and benefits may vary by geographic region. If you have questions on what benefits apply to you, please speak to your recruiter.
Additionally, everyone has individual work and personal needs. We seek to enable the best work environment that helps you and the business work together to produce superior results.
Equal Opportunities
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. Except where prohibited by state law, some offers of employment are conditioned upon successfully passing a drug test. This employer uses E-Verify. Please click here for additional information. (For Illinois E-Verify information click here , aquí , or tu ) #LI-CL2

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