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Optical Communication Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lumilens

Optical Systems Engineer Lead

San Jose, CA · On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

Familiarity with direct-detection and coherent optical communication architectures. * Expertise in modeling optoelectronic components (e.g., lasers, modulators, photodiodes, DAC, ADC, driver, TIA ...

Supermicro

Optical Manufacturing Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Participate in testing, validation, and troubleshooting of photoelectric conversion, fiber-optic communication systems, silicon photonics, and signal integrity issues. * Collaborate with cross ...

Supermicro

Optical Manufacturing Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Participate in testing, validation, and troubleshooting of photoelectric conversion, fiber-optic communication systems, silicon photonics, and signal integrity issues. * Collaborate with cross ...

Super Micro Computer

$120K - $150K/yr

Participate in testing, validation, and troubleshooting of photoelectric conversion, fiber-optic communication systems, silicon photonics, and signal integrity issues. * Collaborate with cross ...

Latent AI

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$130K - $169K/yr

All SpaceX optical systems (laser communication terminal and other optical products) require a blend of theoretical expertise, practical implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex ...

Socket.dev

Staff Engineer, Optics & RF

San Carlos, CA · On-site

Design RF driver and receiver circuitry for optical communication links supporting data rates upto 50 Gbps * Develop end-to-end RF signal chain architecture for laser diode drivers, modulators, and ...

CACI

Optical Test Engineer

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$86K - $181K/yr

Communicate cross-functionally to develop and design project plans. Qualifications: Required: Must have a minimum bachelor's degree in physics or engineering (optical, electrical, mechanical) and 5 ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$131K - $169K/yr

All SpaceX optical systems (laser communication terminal and other optical products) require a blend of theoretical expertise, practical implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$130K - $169K/yr

All SpaceX optical systems (laser communication terminal and other optical products) require a blend of theoretical expertise, practical implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

All SpaceX optical systems (laser communication terminal and other optical products) require a blend of theoretical expertise, practical implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex ...

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All JobsOptical Communication JobsOptical Communication Jobs in California

Optical Communication information

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How much do optical communication jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical communication in California is $17.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is optical communication?

Optical communication is the transmission of information using light as the carrier, typically through optical fibers. This technology is widely used in telecommunications and networking, enabling high-speed data transfer over long distances with minimal loss. Optical communication systems offer advantages such as large bandwidth, immunity to electromagnetic interference, and high security. Common applications include internet backbone infrastructure, cable television, and data centers.

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

To excel in Optical Communication, you need a solid background in physics, electronics, and telecommunications, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with fiber optic systems, optical network design tools, and certifications such as FOA or Cisco Optical Specialist are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork help professionals address complex technical challenges and collaborate on large-scale projects. These competencies are vital for ensuring reliable, high-performance data transmission systems that meet industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in optical communication roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Optical Communication often encounter challenges such as maintaining signal integrity over long distances, troubleshooting network disruptions, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies. These obstacles can be addressed through continuous training, proactive system monitoring, and collaboration with cross-functional teams, including network engineers and hardware specialists. Staying updated on industry best practices and participating in knowledge-sharing sessions also play a crucial role in overcoming these challenges and ensuring reliable optical networks.

What is the difference between Optical Communication vs Optical Engineer?

AspectOptical CommunicationOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or related fields; certifications like CCNA, Cisco certificationsBachelor's or higher in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Physics; certifications like Cisco or industry-specific optical certifications
Work EnvironmentTelecom companies, network providers, research labs; focus on network infrastructureResearch labs, manufacturing, R&D departments; focus on design and development of optical systems
Employer & Industry UsageTelecommunications, internet service providers, data centersOptical component manufacturers, research institutions, tech companies

Optical Communication primarily involves the transmission of data through optical fibers and network infrastructure, focusing on deployment and maintenance. In contrast, Optical Engineers design and develop optical systems and components, emphasizing research and innovation. Both roles require technical knowledge of optics but differ in their focus areas and work environments.

Are optical communication engineers in high demand?

Optical communication engineers are in high demand due to the expanding need for high-speed data transmission and fiber optic networks. They often work in telecommunications, network infrastructure, and research environments, with skills in fiber optics, signal processing, and network design being highly valued.

What is an optical communication system?

An optical communication system is a technology that transmits information using light signals through optical fibers or free space. It involves components like lasers, photodetectors, and optical fibers, and is used in telecommunications, data centers, and networking to achieve high-speed data transfer. Optical communication specialists often work with signal modulation, fiber optics, and network infrastructure to ensure efficient data transmission.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Optical Communication jobs?

Cities in California with the most Optical Communication job openings:

Optical Communication jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Communication job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,095 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Optical Systems Engineer Lead

San Jose, CA • On-site

Lumilens
See more jobs at Lumilensexternal

$151K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Vision

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

About Lumilens
At Lumilens we are building the critical photonics infrastructure that powers tomorrow's AI supercomputing. From chip-to-chip optical interconnects to scalable photonic engines, Lumilens is unlocking a new era of computing - faster, cooler, and massively more efficient.
We're a well-funded startup backed by Mayfield and led by veterans who've built and scaled some of the most transformative technologies in the industry. At Lumilens, we're developing high-speed photonics products purpose-built to power the future of AI infrastructure and high-performance computing.
This isn't incremental innovation, it's a ground-floor opportunity to rethink the optical layer from the silicon up. You'll work alongside a team of world-class engineers solving some of the hardest challenges in scaling optical systems. Every line of code, every design decision, every breakthrough you help deliver will shape the infrastructure of tomorrow. If you're looking for mission, momentum, and the chance to make an outsized impact, jump on the rocket ship. We're just getting started.
About the Role
As the Optical Systems Engineer Lead at Lumilens, you will drive the development of next-generation optical-transceiver-based interconnect solutions for data center and AI applications. You will provide technical leadership, overseeing the design, modeling, and optimization of high-speed optical links-spanning laser and modulator selection, receiver performance, fiber-coupling strategies, and system-level tolerance analysis-to deliver exceptional bandwidth, efficiency, and reliability. Collaborating across IC, packaging, and reliability teams, you will ensure system requirements are translated into robust, manufacturable transceiver architectures scalable to the demands of hyperscale and AI-accelerated computing. Your leadership will directly influence how future systems move data at unprecedented speeds and power efficiencies, and you will mentor and guide a team of engineers to achieve these goals.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
  • Lead and mentor a team in the design of optical transceiver products from concept through implementation.
  • Define system-level specifications and oversee the development of comprehensive end-to-end optical system models, including digital signal processing (DSP), drivers, transimpedance amplifiers (TIA), and optical components such as lasers, Mach-Zehnder modulators (MZMs), and photodetectors.
  • Guide and review signal integrity analysis and the implementation and simulation of digital equalization techniques such as FFE, DFE, MLSD, and pre-emphasis for signal integrity optimization.
  • Set and drive the definition of verification testing requirements for both transceivers and components.
  • Oversee analysis of the impact of impairments such as noise, crosstalk, non-linearity, and reflections on system performance.
  • Support the team in conducting both numerical and analytical simulations to assess optical system behavior under realistic operating conditions.
  • Ensure simulation models are correlated with experimental data at module and component levels.

Minimum Qualification Required
  • Demonstrated leadership experience in transceiver design and high-speed optical communication systems and components.
  • Familiarity with direct-detection and coherent optical communication architectures.
  • Expertise in modeling optoelectronic components (e.g., lasers, modulators, photodiodes, DAC, ADC, driver, TIA) using tools such as VPIphotonics, MATLAB, or Python.
  • Familiarity with advanced DSP techniques, such as linear and decision-feedback equalization (FFE/DFE).
  • Knowledge of modeling on common impairments in high-speed optical links.
  • Hands-on experience with high-speed optical component measurements using oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and other relevant equipment.
  • Strong communication and team leadership skills.
  • Willingness to travel (~20% of the time).

Education & Experience
  • MS or Ph.D. in Engineering, Physics, Optics, or a related technical field

What We Offer
  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance
  • Professional development and certification opportunities
  • Access to cutting-edge optical/photonics test environments and tools
  • A collaborative, cross-functional team dedicated to solving some of the hardest challenges in photonics
  • Equal opportunity employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, identity, orientation, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status

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