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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

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 Brands

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, 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 ...

CommScope, Inc.

Engineer I, NPI

Shakopee, MN · On-site

The NPI Engineer I is an entry-level engineering role responsible for supporting the development, validation, and deployment of optical test processes and systems for new products. This position ...

CommScope Inc.

Engineer I, NPI

Shakopee, MN · On-site

The NPI Engineer I is an entry-level engineering role responsible for supporting the development, validation, and deployment of optical test processes and systems for new products. This position ...

DPR Construction

Telecom Field Engineer

Monroe, LA · On-site

Job Summary DPR Construction is seeking a Telecom Field Engineer with entry-level experience in ... optics, outside plant (OSP) deployments, and low-voltage systems. The Telecom Field Engineer will ...

DPR Construction

Telecom Field Engineer

Monroe, LA

Job Summary DPR Construction is seeking a Telecom Field Engineer with entry-level experience in ... optics, outside plant (OSP) deployments, and low-voltage systems. The Telecom Field Engineer will ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer Entry Level Jobs

Optical Engineer Entry Level information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

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

As of Jun 23, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Threat Engineer - Entry Level

Threat Engineer - Entry Level

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

MTSI is seeking an Entry-Level Threat Engineer to support missile system modeling and analysis activities for the Missile Defense Agency (MDA). The ideal candidate will contribute to the development of high-fidelity threat models, EO/IR signature characterizations, and analytical products that inform critical missile defense studies and tests. This role offers the opportunity to work alongside a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists in a highly technical, mission-driven environment.
Responsibilities:
  • Primary focus will be developing/updating missile models for threat systems
  • Source information will come from CAD/line drawings
  • Will use existing modeling tools such as the Optical Signatures Code (OSC), OPTical In-line SIGnature (OPTISIG) Generator as well as several internal toolsets to characterize missile systems from an EO/IR signature perspective
  • Characterizing missile systems and providing products to support multiple studies and activities across the Missile Defense Agency (MDA)
  • Work with integrated team across multiple modeling disciplines (CAD, kinematic, EO/IR, and plume modeling). Technical areas associated with position includes aspects of aerospace/mechanical engineering, signature physics (blackbody radiation), radiometry, heat transfer/thermal analysis
  • Flight test analysis (retrieving test data such as kinematic/dynamic information, collected data, etc., and comparing to models being developed)
  • Generating briefings to support analysis, product delivery, Quick Reaction Tasks (QRTs)
  • Writing code and developing software tools to assist with IR data generation and analysis

Desired Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD SECRET security clearance.
  • Proficiency in one or more programming languages, including MATLAB, Python, C++, or C#.
  • Experience using CAD tools such as SolidWorks, NX, or similar platforms.

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