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Optical Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Optical Software Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$150K - $225K/yr

Come join us!","responsibilities":"Development of Optical and Imaging simulation capabilities and applications to inform design decisions of new technologies and new optical designs. Work together ...

Apple

Optical Software Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$184K - $324K/yr

Come join us!","responsibilities":"Development of Optical and Imaging simulation capabilities and applications to inform design decisions of new technologies and new optical designs. Work together ...

Voyager Technologies, Inc.

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$135K - $185K/yr

We are looking for an Optical Engineer to join our team of designers of cutting-edge components for space and national security applications, including Space Rated Cameras, Star Trackers, and Laser ...

Voyager Technologies, Inc.

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$135K - $185K/yr

We are looking for an Optical Engineer to join our team of designers of cutting-edge components for space and national security applications, including Space Rated Cameras, Star Trackers, and Laser ...

Voyager Technologies, Inc.

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$135K - $185K/yr

We are looking for an Optical Engineer to join our team of designers of cutting-edge components for space and national security applications, including Space Rated Cameras, Star Trackers, and Laser ...

Bruker

Sr. Optical-Mechanical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$122K - $182K/yr

All our systems and instruments are designed to improve safety of products, to accelerate time-to ... As an Optical-Mechanical Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in designing, developing, and ...

Doist

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$135 - $185/hr

We are looking for an Optical Engineer to join our team of designers of cutting-edge components for space and national security applications, including Space Rated Cameras, Star Trackers, and Laser ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsOptical Designer JobsOptical Designer Jobs in California

Optical Designer information

See California salary details

$79.9K

$142.6K

How much do optical designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical designer in California is $140,832.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,100.00 and $141,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical designer?

To thrive as an Optical Designer, you need a solid background in physics or optical engineering, strong mathematical abilities, and typically a relevant degree in optics or a related field. Proficiency with optical design software such as Zemax, Code V, or LightTools, and familiarity with CAD systems, are essential technical requirements. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help an optical designer excel when collaborating with engineering teams and interpreting client needs. These skills ensure accurate, innovative optical solutions and successful project outcomes in industries ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace.

What are some common challenges optical designers face when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Optical Designers often work alongside engineers, product managers, and manufacturing specialists, which can present challenges in aligning technical specifications with practical constraints. Communication is key, as translating complex optical requirements into actionable tasks for other disciplines requires clarity and adaptability. Additionally, Optical Designers must frequently balance ideal optical performance with considerations like cost, manufacturability, and mechanical integration, making compromise and problem-solving essential parts of the job.

What is the difference between Optical Designer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectOptical DesignerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineeringBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D departments, manufacturing settingsDesign labs, R&D departments, manufacturing settings
Employer & Industry UsageOptics companies, research institutions, aerospace, defenseOptics companies, research institutions, aerospace, defense
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Optical Designers focus on creating and developing optical systems and components through detailed design work. Optical Engineers apply engineering principles to develop, test, and improve optical devices, often overseeing the implementation of designs. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, Optical Designers primarily concentrate on conceptual and detailed design, whereas Optical Engineers are more involved in the practical application and testing of optical systems.

What is an optical designer?

An optical designer is a professional who develops and optimizes optical systems, such as lenses, microscopes, and cameras, using specialized software and engineering principles. They analyze light behavior, select appropriate materials, and ensure the system meets performance specifications, often working closely with engineers and manufacturers.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Optical Designer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Optical Designer job openings:

Optical Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $140,832 per year, or $67.7 per hour.

Optical Test Engineer

Mesh Optical Technologies

Gardena, CA • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

OPTICAL TEST ENGINEER
Mesh Optical Technologies was founded on the belief that optical photons will be at the center of advanced technologies in the coming century. Making advanced technology ubiquitous means building at scale, and that's exactly what we're doing at Mesh.
Scaling advanced photonics demands test and measurement systems as sophisticated as the devices themselves. We are seeking an Optical Test Engineer to design, build, and validate the optical test infrastructure that ensures our products meet rigorous performance, yield, and reliability standards-from wafer-level characterization through integrated module validation. You will be the critical link between design intent and production reality, turning data into actionable insight across every stage of our manufacturing pipeline.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Partner with PIC design, electrical, mechanical and test teams to define requirements for production and develop test approaches for complex hardware
  • Design, build, and validate optical test systems including imaging, microscopy, polarimetry, profilometry, and interferometry
  • Compile and analyze data sets to identify trends in performance
  • Assist with validation activities, including performance characterization at the wafer-, die-, and integrated module level
  • Work with internal engineering teams and suppliers to identify drivers of performance, yield, reliability, and quality issues
  • Review designs for manufacturability; drive integration build flow, test operations, and execution readiness

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, optical engineering, applied physics or an engineering discipline
  • 2+ years of hands-on experience in optics, photonics, lasers, or test
  • Working knowledge of lasers, photodiodes, fiber optics, optical test/troubleshooting methods, and signal integrity fundamentals
  • Hands-on experience with optical test equipment (e.g., power meters, interferometers, spectrum analyzers)
  • 1+ years of programming experience (e.g., C++, LabVIEW, and/or Python)
  • Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as needed

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree or PhD in electrical engineering, optical engineering, applied physics or an engineering discipline
  • Experience in optical lab or production environments with strong attention to detail
  • Proficiency with optical design/analysis tools (e.g., Zemax)
  • Experience integrating and testing electrical and/or avionics systems
  • Experience with documentation practices and configuration management
  • Hands-on experience with electro-optic wafer- and die-level test systems
  • Hands-on familiarity with optical/RF test equipment (e.g., spectrum analyzers, VNAs, VSGs, high-speed oscilloscopes, BERTs)
  • Experience writing test plans and procedures, and delivering go/no-go decisions with clear rationale
  • CAD proficiency (NX preferred)

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Optical Test Engineer: $120,000.00 - $160,000.00/per year
Title and base salary are determined on a case by case basis commensurate with experience and merit.
In addition to base salary, compensation for this role includes:
  • Eligibility for long-term incentives including company stock options and discretionary bonuses awarded for exceptional achievements.
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance with significant cost covered by the company for yourself and dependents.
  • Paid parental leave and flexible PTO (3 weeks accrued vacation and 10 company holidays per year).
  • 401(k) retirement plan access.
  • Relocation assistance to sunny Los Angeles.

Apply