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Optical Alignment Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Raytheon

Principal Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$137K - $177K/yr

Hands-on assembly and alignment of optical sensors in cleanrooms. * Optical testing and troubleshooting in lab and field environments. * Work in both a collaborative environment and as an individual ...

Raytheon

Senior Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$137K - $177K/yr

Hands-on assembly and alignment of optical sensors in cleanrooms. * Optical testing and troubleshooting in lab and field environments. * Work in both a collaborative environment and as an individual ...

Raytheon Technologies

Senior Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$137K - $177K/yr

Hands-on assembly and alignment of optical sensors in cleanrooms. * Optical testing and troubleshooting in lab and field environments. * Work in both a collaborative environment and as an individual ...

Raytheon

Senior Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$137K - $177K/yr

Hands-on assembly and alignment of optical sensors in cleanrooms. * Optical testing and troubleshooting in lab and field environments. * Work in both a collaborative environment and as an individual ...

Raytheon

Principal Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$137K - $177K/yr

Hands-on assembly and alignment of optical sensors in cleanrooms. * Optical testing and troubleshooting in lab and field environments. * Work in both a collaborative environment and as an individual ...

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 ...

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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Optical Alignment information

See California salary details

$10

$21

$36

How much do optical alignment jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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

Optical Test Engineer II

Impulse Space

Redondo Beach, CA • On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description
As an Optical Test Engineer at Impulse, you will be responsible for designing, procuring, assembling, and operating optomechanical test setups while working closely with a fast paced, agile team that produces high-performance spacecraft from clean sheet designs.

Responsibilities
  • Design and build optical, mechanical, and electrical systems in support of spacecraft optomechanical components
  • Fully own key test assets and major test programs while collaborating with wide ranging teams across the company
  • Coordinate with external vendors and contractors to meet project technical and schedule objectives
  • Perform test setup, hardware inspections, checkouts and troubleshooting as needed
  • Conduct test operations geared toward rapidly developing hardware for spaceflight
  • Resolve technical issues with innovative and resourceful solutions 


Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, optical, aerospace, electrical engineering or related field
  • 3+ years of experience in hardware development testing
  • Strong engineering fundamentals in optical, mechanical, and electrical analysis
  • Prior hands-on operational experience working with test facilities
  • Previously demonstrated ownership of test stand design and build-up
  • Able to identify and procure appropriate test equipment 
  • Proficient with data acquisition and control methods
  • Demonstrated ability of taking project ownership and working well in small teams


Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Advanced degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related discipline
  • 4+ years of experience in hardware development testing
  • Demonstrated hardware testing experience with star trackers, cameras, lasers or other spacecraft optical components
  • Experience with Zemax OpticStudio, Code V, or similar optical modeling tools
  • Familiarity with environmental qualification testing for flight hardware
  • 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 

Additional Information:
Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan.
Impulse Space’s spacecraft manufacturing business is subject to U.S. export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). This position requires applicants to be either U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent U.S. resident (green card holder), an individual granted asylum in the U.S., or an individual admitted in U.S. refugee status) or persons eligible to obtain an export license from the U.S. Departments of State, Commerce, or other applicable U.S. government agencies. Learn more about the ITAR here.  
Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.