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Optical Alignment Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Luminit

Optical Engineer, Holography Lab

Torrance, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

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

Impulse Space

Optical Test Engineer II

Redondo Beach, CA

$136K - $176K/yr

Prior experience with optical alignment and precision metrology * Experience in a startup or agile development environment Additional Requirements: * Flexible schedule and willing to travel as needed ...

PsiQuantum

Associate Optical Packaging Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

Support the development, optimization, and validation of optical packaging and active alignment processes for photonic components and fiber attach assemblies. * Assist in process characterization ...

Impulse Space

Optical Test Engineer II

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

Prior experience with optical alignment and precision metrology * Experience in a startup or agile development environment Additional Requirements: * Flexible schedule and willing to travel as needed ...

PsiQuantum

Associate Optical Packaging Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$147K - $190K/yr

Support the development, optimization, and validation of optical packaging and active alignment processes for photonic components and fiber attach assemblies. * Assist in process characterization ...

Gooch & Housego PLC

Optical Assembler II

Fremont, CA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

... optical alignment setups under guidance • Applies adhesives (e.g., UV glue) and supports curing processes • Conducts visual inspection for defects and contamination • Follows standard work ...

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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 Engineer, Holography Lab

Optical Engineer, Holography Lab

Luminit

Torrance, CA • On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Role Overview

Luminit is seeking an early-career Optical Engineer to support hands-on holographic recording and optical-bench work across our aerospace, automotive, and display programs. 

Working under senior optical engineers, this person runs day-to-day recording, optical-table alignment, sample preparation, and characterization within Luminit’s established recording process. We are looking for a strong optics foundation and genuine bench instinct; someone intelligent and observant who can apply judgment as each new product presents its own recording challenge. 

Holographic recording experience is not required; it is trained. Optical-bench literacy and a track record of careful, resourceful lab work are essential. 

Key Responsibilities

Optical Bench & Recording

  • Set up, align, and operate optical benches and recording systems under engineer direction 

  • Perform holographic recording, sample preparation, and handling  

  • Characterize optical and holographic samples (efficiency, uniformity, basic optical metrology) and record results carefully 

Lab Execution & Improvement

  • Follow and help refine recording and test procedures; flag anomalies and propose improvements 

  • Maintain disciplined, traceable lab records and contribute to process documentation 

  • Troubleshoot setups and contribute to incremental process improvement

Prototype Development & Validation

  • Support prototype design, assembly, testing, and validation activities for holographic optical systems.
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to refine optical designs based on testing, characterization, and customer feedback.
  • Assist in transitioning prototype systems into pilot-line and production-ready manufacturing processes.
  • Document experimental results, process learnings, and performance improvements to support future product development.

Cross-Functional Engineering Collaboration

  • Work closely with senior optical engineers and the process and metrology team 

  • Support build and characterization activities tied to program milestones

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Optics, Optical Engineering, or a closely related field 

  • Hands-on optical-bench or laser-lab experience (coursework, research, or an optics/laser technical program), including operating and aligning optical tables 

  • Demonstrated lab judgment; evidence of troubleshooting, calibration, or process-improvement initiative in a lab setting 

  • Careful, methodical approach to measurement and record-keeping 

  • 0–2 years of experience; recent graduates with strong optics-lab experience are encouraged to apply 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with lasers, interferometry, optical alignment, or optical metrology 

  • Exposure to holography, diffractive optics, or photopolymer materials 

  • Cleanroom, thin-film, coating, or fabrication-process experience 

  • MATLAB or Python for data handling 

Work Environment & Logistics

  • On-site role based in Torrance, CA 

  • Customer and technical-partner interaction as required by active programs 

Export Control Eligibility

This position may involve access to information or technology subject to U.S. export control regulations (ITAR or EAR). Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under applicable U.S. export control regulations.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive compensation package
  • Comprehensive benefits
  • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge automotive and display technologies

Company Description

Luminit develops advanced optical technologies used across automotive, aerospace, defense, and industrial applications. Employees work on cutting-edge holographic and photonic systems in a collaborative, technically driven environment with opportunities to contribute directly to next-generation mobility and display technologies.