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Optical Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Amat

Optical Engineer IV

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$161K - $221K/yr

We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display ... Key Responsibilities Optical design engineer to support the development of high-performance optical ...

AEI-CIG

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$110K - $200K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking an Optical Engineer to support the design, development, and optimization of optical transceiver products for high-speed optical communication systems. The candidate ...

HRL Laboratories

Design & Optical Test Engineer

Malibu, CA · On-site

$81K - $98K/yr

... engineering and R&D under the supervision of staff scientists for next generation quantum photonic/electronic devices and deployable optical payloads • Design, model, setup, and test of free-space ...

HRL Laboratories

Design & Optical Test Engineer

Malibu, CA · On-site

$81K - $98K/yr

Perform critical engineering and R&D under the supervision of staff scientists for next generation quantum photonic/electronic devices and deployable optical payloads * Design, model, setup, and test ...

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$138K - $179K/yr

Design and implement optical test setups including alignment tools, calibration methods, and ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics/Electrical Engineering or a related ...

CivicMinds, Inc.

Sr Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$138K - $179K/yr

They identify and help solve design challenges associated with the harsh environments of launch and ... The Sr. Optical Engineer manages subcontracts for optical parts, materials, coatings, and ...

Raytheon

Principal Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$137K - $177K/yr

Optical design and analysis with Zemax, CodeV, FRED, and/or Matlab. * Optical requirements ... Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum ...

Raytheon

Principal Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$137K - $177K/yr

Optical design and analysis with Zemax, CodeV, FRED, and/or Matlab. * Optical requirements ... Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOptical Design Engineer JobsOptical Design Engineer Jobs in California

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 7, 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:

Optical Design Engineer jobs near you
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.

Electrico-Optics Design Engineer

Adams Dearborn LLC

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Our client is seeking an experienced Electrico-Optics Design Engineer to join a talented engineering team developing sophisticated precision electro-optical products. This is an exciting opportunity for an engineer who enjoys solving complex technical 
challenges, working across disciplines, and taking ownership of designs from initial concept through integration, testing, 
and production.

In this role, you'll work as part of an integrated product team alongside Optical, Mechanical, Software, Firmware, and Electrical Engineers and Technicians. You'll have the opportunity to make a direct impact on product development while supporting demanding customer requirements, project milestones, design reviews, and product integration.

Duties:

  • Design and analyze electronics using industry-standard electrical design and simulation tools.
  • Develop schematics, functional and block diagrams, electrical wiring diagrams, and digital, analog, power, and mixed-signal circuitry.
  • Translate system-level requirements into detailed implementation-level designs and block diagrams.
  • Design, build, integrate, and test mixed-signal, low-voltage current-driver boards.
  • Develop circuit designs incorporating microcontrollers, including embedded C programming, debugging, and integration.
  • Design and support stepper motor control circuits.
  • Lead bench-level system integration involving hardware, software, and FPGA-based designs.
  • Develop design review packages, including analysis, performance budgets, and test data demonstrating compliance with functional requirements.
  • Create test plans and procedures to validate circuit performance and functional requirements.
  • Participate in peer and customer design reviews and effectively communicate technical concepts and results.
  • Support project planning, design reviews, production releases, and updates to product documentation.
  • Take ownership of engineering projects from concept through design, integration, test, and production.

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree with 6+ years of relevant experience, or a graduate degree with 4+ years of relevant experience.
  • Experience designing and developing digital, analog, power, and mixed-signal electronics.
  • Hands-on experience with microcontroller-based board design.
  • Experience with embedded C programming and microcontroller debugging.
  • Ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance.

Adams Dearborn is a professional staffing and executive search firm. We specialize in: 
Accounting and Finance, Human Resources, Engineering, and Supply Chain.