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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

W3Global Inc.

Field Service Engineer

Garden Grove, CA

$70K - $80K/yr

... cells, fiber optic devices, and semiconductor materials. We value our employees and offer ... We welcome both experienced professionals and entry-level candidates. The primary responsibilities ...

Divergent

Metrology Programmer

Torrance, CA · On-site

Purpose The Metrology Programmer is an entry-level position designed for individuals interested in ... PolyWorks, and GOM/ATOS optical systems. In time, the programmer is expected to become an ...

JT4 LLC

Field Engineer I

Edwards, CA · On-site

Work is at an entry level and is generally performed as a member of a project team. Employee will ... Knowledge of structured cabling in support of data transmission equipment, such as fiber optics ...

Raytheon

Navigation/IMU Engineer II

Los Angeles, CA

We are seeking entry-level candidates willing to collaborate, innovate, and team with our engineers ... Experience with Fiber Optic gyros, Ring Laser Gyros and MEMs gyros. * Experience with mechanical ...

JT4, LLC

Field Engineer I

Edwards, CA · On-site

Work is at an entry level and is generally performed as a member of a project team. Employee will ... Knowledge of structured cabling in support of data transmission equipment, such as fiber optics ...

JT4, LLC

Field Engineer I

Edwards, CA · On-site

Work is at an entry level and is generally performed as a member of a project team. Employee will ... Knowledge of structured cabling in support of data transmission equipment, such as fiber optics ...

New

Raytheon

Navigation/IMU Engineer II

San Diego, CA

We are seeking entry-level candidates willing to collaborate, innovate, and team with our engineers ... Experience with Fiber Optic gyros, Ring Laser Gyros and MEMs gyros. * Experience with mechanical ...

Raytheon

Navigation/IMU Engineer II

San Jose, CA

We are seeking entry-level candidates willing to collaborate, innovate, and team with our engineers ... Experience with Fiber Optic gyros, Ring Laser Gyros and MEMs gyros. * Experience with mechanical ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Entry Level JobsOptical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in California

Optical Engineer Entry Level information

See California salary details

$81.9K

$141.7K

$166.3K

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer entry level in California is $141,730.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $164,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are optical engineers in demand?

Optical engineers are in demand due to their role in developing optical systems for industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. The field requires skills in optics, photonics, and related software tools, with job growth driven by technological advancements and increasing reliance on optical technologies.

How to get into optical engineering?

To enter optical engineering as an entry-level professional, obtain a bachelor's degree in optical engineering, physics, or electrical engineering with a focus on optics. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, developing skills in optical design software like Zemax or Code V, and understanding laser systems and photonics are also important steps.

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?

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in California?

For Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs?

Cities in California with the most Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings:

Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,730 per year, or $68.1 per hour.

Electro-Optical Systems Engineer

Surface Optics Corporation

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Summary: The Electro-Optical Systems Engineer will support systems engineering, systems architecture studies, systems design & analysis, and test roles on programs for the development of high-performance electro-optical systems including optical sensor systems, infrared and spectral imaging systems. The E-O Systems Engineer will work on projects end-to-end, from proposal and design, through prototype development and analysis, to product development and manufacturing. Excellent communication skills and success working in a multi-disciplined team environment is essential. The position will derive, model, analyze and optimize complex optical and electro-optical systems at the conceptual and detailed design level, with a focus on radiometry, calibration, image quality and stray light control. Must be capable of design, development and analysis of optical and electro-optical systems, including visible and IR sensor systems, modeling and simulation, optical system performance modeling, performance analysis and tolerance assessment experience. Knowledge of image quality metrics such as MTF, MRTD, NIIRS ratings, SNR, etc is required. Position will be responsible for focal plane array analysis, radiometric calibration, simulation, integration and test.

Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  1. Derive, model, analyze and optimize complex optical and electro-optical systems.
  1. Design, develop, calibrate, and test optical and electro-optical systems.
  1. Lead integration and testing efforts of sensor systems and sub-assemblies.
  1. Perform systems architecture studies and sensor trades.
  1. Support new business in concept development and proposals.
  1. Key contributor to programs as technical expert and/or as Lead EO Systems Engineer.
  1. Mandatory attendance at all-hands SOC safety, security and HR meetings.

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