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Optical Alignment Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

JPL

Optical Engineer IV

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$140K - $181K/yr

Practical advanced knowledge in hardware integration, optical alignment, state-of-the-art measurement techniques. * Ability to apply for a clearance Preferred Skills: * Extensive knowledge of JPL ...

Luminit Inc.

Optical Engineer, Holography Lab

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Set up, align, and operate optical benches and recording systems under engineer direction * Perform holographic recording, sample preparation, and handling * Characterize optical and holographic ...

PsiQuantum

Manager, Optical Process Engineering

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$147K - $190K/yr

Troubleshoot manufacturing issues related to optics, fiber optics alignment, and length matching, or photonics assembly. Engineering Leadership * Lead and mentor a team of process, manufacturing, and ...

PsiQuantum

Manager, Optical Process Engineering

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

Troubleshoot manufacturing issues related to optics, fiber optics alignment, and length matching, or photonics assembly. Engineering Leadership * Lead and mentor a team of process, manufacturing, and ...

PsiQuantum

Manager, Optical Process Engineering

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

Troubleshoot manufacturing issues related to optics, fiber optics alignment, and length matching, or photonics assembly. Engineering Leadership * Lead and mentor a team of process, manufacturing, and ...

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All JobsOptical Alignment JobsOptical Alignment Jobs in California

Optical Alignment information

See California salary details

$10

$21

$36

How much do optical alignment jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,009 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
Optical Assembly Technician- TEMP

Optical Assembly Technician- TEMP

Coherent

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

  • Clean optical components under microscope
  • Set up optical alignment stations
  • Manually handle, align and install diverse optical components using adjustment fixtures while monitoring diverse optical parameters, and continue to adjust alignment optimize and balance all optical parameters until these parameters reach optimal and meet specs.
  • Do optical performance test for WSS optical assembly
  • Apply and cure UV glues to fix optical components
  • Inspect own work according to quality specifications
  • Produce work that meets workmanship standards and strict quality criteria
  • Perform incoming inspections
  • Cross-trained for upstream and downstream operations
  • Load and unload alignment stations   
  • Correctly enter numerical data
  • Documentation and communication of suggestions for continuous improvement
  • Maintains a good record concerning absenteeism and tardiness

Education & Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Basic reading and math skills (add, subtract, multiply and divide)
  • 3+ years of experience in fiber optics related field
  • Experience in optical alignment and assembly using fixtures, hand tools and test equipment preferred
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a team based environment
  • Demonstrated ability to achieve results independently and work with others 
  • Ability to recommend and implement improvements
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills

Skills

  • Good manual dexterity
  • Ability to visually inspect optics for cleanliness/defects using a microscope 
  • Ability to clean optical components
  • Ability to manually handle, align and install diverse optical components
  • Ability to monitor diverse optical parameters and to align optical components to optimize and balance all optical parameters until these parameters reach optimum and meet specs.
  • Ability to provide feedback in the development of new processes, tools and techniques working with the Engineering team
  • Ability to work independently with minimal guidance from the supervisor 
  • Ability to solve problems & make correct decisions in short timeframes, oftentimes with minimal supervision
  • Ability to excel in a cross-organizational, cross cultural, global team environment
  • Handle special assignments with speed and effectiveness

Working Conditions

  • R&D engineering lab and manufacturing cleanroom

Physical Requirements

  • Able to wear plastic/latex gloves or finger cots.

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work


 

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.


 

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.


 

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.

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