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Optical Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$139K - $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 ...

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$139K - $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 ...

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

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

Orbotech

Senior Optical Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$150K - $194K/yr

You will also lead the design of a custom metrology system to verify and adjust the optical performance of our primary optical system. You will interact closely with the systems engineering group to ...

KLA Corporation

Senior Optical Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$150K - $194K/yr

You will also lead the design of a custom metrology system to verify and adjust the optical performance of our primary optical system. You will interact closely with the systems engineering group to ...

KLA Corporation

Senior Optical Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

You will also lead the design of a custom metrology system to verify and adjust the optical performance of our primary optical system. You will interact closely with the systems engineering group to ...

KLA-Belgium

Senior Optical Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$118 - $200/hr

You will also lead the design of a custom metrology system to verify and adjust the optical performance of our primary optical system. You will interact closely with the systems engineering group to ...

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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 Aug 21, 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 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,084 per year, or $66.4 per hour.

Lead Optical Engineer

TRL11, Inc.

Irvine, CA • On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities:

  1. Develop and optimize systems involving lenses, sensors, or imaging devices
  2. Conduct optical system modeling, simulation, and performance analysis using tools such as Zemax, Code V, FRED, or similar optical analysis software.
  3. Develop and execute optical test plans to validate system performance at component, subsystem, and payload levels.
  4. Design and implement optical test setups including alignment tools, calibration methods, and metrology procedures.
  5. Define optical acceptance criteria and support verification activities for payload integration and end-of-line testing.
  6. Support manufacturing and assembly processes involving optics, including defining handling procedures, contamination control, and alignment processes.
  7. Analyze test data and troubleshoot optical performance issues during development, integration, and production.
  8. Support root-cause investigations for optical performance deviations and recommend corrective actions.
  9. Conduct research on new materials and emerging optical technologies to keep R&D aligned with the latest advancements.
  10. Ideal candidates will be able to contribute in areas of secondary responsibility, such as structural or thermal simulation, manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, or systems engineering.

Requirements

  1. Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics/Electrical Engineering or a related field
  2. 5-10+ years of experience in optical design or a related field
  3. Strong understanding of physics, optics materials, and/or laser systems Proficiency in optical design software (Zemax, Code V, Light tool or similar)
  4. Experience with imaging systems or laser systems
  5. Experience with OnShape, Solidworks, or similar CAD
  6. Strong understanding of thermal and structural analysis of optical designs
  7. Experience with optomechanical alignment, calibration and testing procedures
  8. Preferred experience with optics designed for visible, NIR, and LWIR transmission

Benefits

  • Fast paced, energetic startup culture, where you'll learn a lot, have great impact, and have fun doing it
  • Bonus, 401k, Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Unlimited Paid Time Off (with prior approval), for Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays, Maternity, Paternity
  • Possible Stock Option Plan participation, based on performance and tenure.