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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Boeing

Entry Level Systems Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

The Boeing Laser and Electro-Optical Systems (LEOS), is looking for highly skilled and adaptable Entry Level Systems Engineers to provide Systems Engineering support on a multi-disciplinary team ...

Boeing

Entry Level Systems Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

The Boeing Laser and Electro-Optical Systems (LEOS), is looking for highly skilled and adaptable Entry Level Systems Engineers to provide Systems Engineering support on a multi-disciplinary team ...

Acuity, Inc.

Illumination Engineer Lead

Wheat Ridge, CO · On-site

$108K - $143K/yr

Job Summary The Illumination Engineer is a core contributor to the Nexus team, Acuity Brands ... Open to considering candidates at the following skill levels: * Entry Level: Contributes to optical ...

Acuity Brands

Illumination Engineer Lead

Wheat Ridge, CO

$108K - $143K/yr

Job Summary The Illumination Engineer is a core contributor to the Nexus team, Acuity Brands ... Open to considering candidates at the following skill levels: * Entry Level: Contributes to optical ...

Syop Holdings

Optical Technician

Victor, NY · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... Follow engineering drawings, manufacturing instructions, procedures, process specifications ... We are open to hiring entry level, mid-level, or senior level candidate. Benefits: Medical, Dental ...

Corning

Controls Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

... entry-level Controls Engineer to support the specification, design, build, integration, documentation, and maintenance of automation and control systems for optical test benches, in both R&D and ...

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Optical Engineer Entry Level information

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$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical engineer entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer entry level in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Optical Engineer Entry Level position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Engineer Entry Level, a solid background in optics, physics, and engineering principles—usually acquired through a bachelor's degree in optical engineering, physics, or a related field—is essential. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laboratory equipment, and CAD tools is typically expected for hands-on work and simulations. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective team communication make candidates stand out in collaborative engineering environments. These competencies are crucial for successfully designing, testing, and refining optical systems used in industries like telecommunications, imaging, and manufacturing.

What is an Optical Engineer Entry Level job?

An Optical Engineer Entry Level job involves designing, testing, and improving optical systems, such as lenses, lasers, and fiber optics, under the supervision of senior engineers. Responsibilities may include running simulations, performing laboratory experiments, and assisting in product development. Entry-level optical engineers often work in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, medical devices, or manufacturing. Strong analytical skills, a background in physics or engineering, and proficiency with optical design software are essential. This role provides hands-on experience and opportunities for career growth in optical engineering.

What kinds of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry-level Optical Engineer?

As an entry-level Optical Engineer, you will typically support the design, prototyping, and testing of optical components and systems under the guidance of senior engineers. Your daily tasks may include conducting simulations, preparing reports on experimental results, assembling optical setups in the lab, and troubleshooting equipment. You’ll often collaborate with cross-functional teams that include mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and project managers. This role provides an excellent opportunity to build practical skills, contribute to real-world product development, and learn from experienced mentors while laying the groundwork for future advancement in the optical engineering field.

More about Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs? Cities with the most Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs are:
Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Entry-Level Sales Representative Optical Materials

AOVTECH LLC

Hopkinton, MA

$75K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

AOVtech LLC specializes in advanced optical materials and components serving commercial, industrial, and U.S. government customers. Our solutions support applications in defense, aerospace, photonics, and precision instrumentation.
We are seeking a motivated Entry-Level Sales Representative to support business development through trade shows, customer visits, and technical product engagement.
Position Overview

This role is ideal for a driven individual interested in technical sales within the optical and photonics industry. The selected candidate will quickly develop product knowledge, represent the company at industry events, and build relationships with engineers, procurement teams, and government customers.
Key Responsibilities

  • Represent AOVtech at optical, photonics, and defense trade shows
  • Conduct customer visits and develop new business opportunities
  • Learn and understand company optical materials (e.g., specialty glass, crystals, coatings, infrared materials, precision optics)
  • Present technical product capabilities clearly to engineers and procurement personnel
  • Support RFQs, proposal preparation, and follow-up communications
  • Coordinate with engineering and production teams on customer requirements
  • Maintain CRM pipeline tracking and sales reporting
  • Assist in market research and competitor analysis
Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in:
     
    • Materials Science
  •  
    • Physics
  •  
    • Optical Engineering
  •  
    • Mechanical Engineering
  •  
    • Business with technical background
  •  
  • Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Ability to quickly grasp technical specifications and manufacturing processes
  • Comfortable interacting with engineers and technical buyers
  • Willingness to travel (trade shows, customer visits)
Required

  • U.S. Citizen (required due to government and defense customers)
  • Ability to comply with export control regulations (ITAR/EAR)
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to travel
Preferred

  • Internship or exposure to photonics or optical manufacturing
  • Familiarity with optical materials such as:
     
    • Infrared materials
  •  
    • Optical crystals
  •  
    • Precision coatings
  •  
    • Semiconductor-related materials
  •  
  • Experience attending industry trade shows