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Optical Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Optical Design Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

... Design Engineers interacting closely with Production, Sales and Process Engineering to help create, test and refine Acousto- and Electro-Optic Products through release-to-Manufacturing. Because of ...

Why You'll Love This Role Lumentum is seeking a candidate for the position of a Sr. optical design engineer. The position will be responsible formodeling optical trains in high-speed optical modules ...

Optical Design Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

... Design Engineers interacting closely with Production, Sales and Process Engineering to help create, test and refine Acousto- and Electro-Optic Products through release-to-Manufacturing. Because of ...

We're looking for a Senior Optical Design Engineer to take true end-to-end ownership of critical optical subsystems--from first sketch and simulation, through prototyping and test, all the way to ...

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process. Sr. Principal Optical Design Engineer ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$78.5K

$138.1K

$185K

How much do optical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical design engineer in California is $138,084.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $156,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical design engineer?

Optical Design Engineers are professionals who design and develop optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They use principles of physics and engineering to create products used in industries like telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics. Their work often involves computer-aided design (CAD) software and optical simulation tools to ensure that optical systems meet specific performance requirements. Optical Design Engineers collaborate with other engineers and scientists throughout the development and testing process. They play a key role in advancing technologies that rely on light manipulation and imaging.

What are some common challenges optical design engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Optical Design Engineers often collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing engineers to bring complex optical systems to life. A common challenge is ensuring that the optical specifications are maintained while accommodating constraints from other disciplines, such as size, thermal management, and manufacturability. Effective communication and a strong understanding of both optical principles and broader engineering requirements are crucial to balancing these sometimes competing demands. Regular team meetings and clear documentation help keep projects aligned and facilitate successful integration across all engineering domains.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Design Engineer, you need strong knowledge of optics, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Proficiency in optical design software such as Zemax, Code V, or LightTools is essential, along with familiarity with CAD tools and simulation systems. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in cross-functional teams and address complex design challenges. These skills ensure the creation of high-performance optical systems that meet technical requirements and client needs.

What is the difference between Optical Design Engineer vs Optical Test Engineer?

AspectOptical Design EngineerOptical Test Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, CAD software, collaboration with R&D teamsTesting labs, measurement equipment, quality assurance teams
Industry UsageOptical product development, lens design, imaging systemsProduct validation, quality control, performance testing
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Optical Design Engineers focus on creating and optimizing optical systems using design software, while Optical Test Engineers verify and validate these designs through testing and measurements. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work closely in optical product development, but their core responsibilities differ in design versus testing.

Are optical design engineers in high demand?

Optical design engineers are in high demand due to the growth of industries such as telecommunications, consumer electronics, and aerospace that rely on advanced optical systems. Their expertise in lens design, optical simulations, and proficiency with tools like Zemax or Code V makes them valuable in developing innovative optical solutions, especially as technology continues to advance.

What do optical design engineers do?

Optical design engineers develop and optimize optical systems and components, such as lenses, microscopes, and cameras, using specialized software like Zemax or Code V. They analyze light behavior, perform simulations, and ensure designs meet performance specifications, often collaborating with manufacturing and testing teams. Strong knowledge of optics, physics, and CAD tools is essential for this role.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Optical Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Optical Design Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Design Engineer jobs in CA?

For Optical Design Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Optical Design Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,084 per year, or $66.4 per hour.

Senior Optical Design Engineer

Google Inc.

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$159 - $231/hr

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago


Google rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 247 rated software companies


Job description

corporate_fare Google place Mountain View, CA, USA

Apply

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or a specialized field (e.g., Optics, Sensors, Audio/DSP, etc.), or equivalent practical experience.
  • 4 years of experience working in optical design.
Preferred qualifications:
  • Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, or a related field (e.g., Optics, Sensors, Audio/DSP).
  • Specialized experience in optical design.
  • Proven proficiency in Python for automating optical simulations, data post-processing, and generating design reports.
  • Familiarity with camera systems, sensors, and display technologies.
About the job

Join the innovative Pixel Optics team as a Senior Optical Design Engineer. In this role, you will be instrumental in the end-to-end development of advanced optical systems for future Pixel products, specializing in high-fidelity optical modeling and opto-mechanical performance analysis. Your role requires deep expertise in non-sequential ray trace analysis and sequential optical design. You will lead cross-functional efforts to define optical architectures and ensure manufacturability, leveraging your knowledge of Augmented Reality (AR) optical systems to solve complex, ambiguity-driven design challenges. Individual pay is determined by factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

About the job

Join the innovative Pixel Optics team as a Senior Optical Design Engineer. In this role, you will be instrumental in the end-to-end development of advanced optical systems for future Pixel products, specializing in high-fidelity optical modeling and opto-mechanical performance analysis. Your role requires deep expertise in non-sequential ray trace analysis and sequential optical design. You will lead cross-functional efforts to define optical architectures and ensure manufacturability, leveraging your knowledge of Augmented Reality (AR) optical systems to solve complex, ambiguity-driven design challenges. Individual pay is determined by factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

US: $159000 - $231000 (USD) + 15% bonus target + equity + benefits

Learn more about benefits at Google .

  • Conduct advanced optical system modeling and simulation.
  • Conduct non-sequential straylight simulation and analysis.
  • Drive the optical design and architecture of near-eye displays.
  • Collaborate with Mechanical, Electrical, and Product Design teams to define specifications, manage tolerances, and ensure successful integration of simulated designs into mass-manufacturable hardware.
  • Develop, maintain, and execute complex optical models using industry-standard software and internal Python-based tools for analysis and visualization.

Google is proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We are committed to building a workforce that is representative of the users we serve, creating a culture of belonging, and providing an equal employment opportunity regardless of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding), expecting or parents-to-be, criminal histories consistent with legal requirements, or any other basis protected by law. See also Google's EEO Policy , Know your rights: workplace discrimination is illegal , Belonging at Google , and How we hire .

Google is a global company and, in order to facilitate efficient collaboration and communication globally, English proficiency is a requirement for all roles unless stated otherwise in the job posting.

To all recruitment agencies: Google does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Google employees, or any other organization location. Google is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

Equity is granted exclusively and discretionarily by Alphabet Inc. on the basis of an agreement concluded between you and Alphabet Inc. Alphabet Inc. is your sole contractual partner with respect to equity grants. GSU grants are not guaranteed, are discretionary, are subject to approval by the Alphabet Inc. board of directors or its delegate, the terms of the relevant Alphabet Inc. stock plan, and your grant agreement. They have no impact on statutory payments. Current or past grants do not confer an acquired right.

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