2

Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

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

New

We are seeking an entry-level additive design engineer to join our additive engineering team. This ... Familiarity with 3D Printing inspection methods (e.g. 3D scanning, CT Scanning, Optical ...

Additive Design Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$83K - $113K/yr

Overview We are seeking an entry-level additive design engineer to join our additive engineering ... Familiarity with 3D Printing inspection methods (e.g. 3D scanning, CT Scanning, Optical ...

Additive Design Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$83K - $113K/yr

Overview We are seeking an entry-level additive design engineer to join our additive engineering ... Familiarity with 3D Printing inspection methods (e.g. 3D scanning, CT Scanning, Optical ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Jun 12, 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.

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.

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:
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings in California 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 $141,730 per year, or $68.1 per hour.
High Energy Laser Beam Control Electro-Optical Engineer - Entry Level

High Energy Laser Beam Control Electro-Optical Engineer - Entry Level

Lockheed Martin

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 2 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 382 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

We are looking for an electro-optical engineer with capabilities and interests in high energy laser beam control for applications including missile defense, power beaming, and counter-unmanned aerial vehicle defense. Candidates with laser/electro-optical experience relevant to high energy laser beam control are particularly sought; however, the position is open to all technically qualified candidates with a keen interest in high energy laser systems.
With a focus on electro-optical hardware engineering, you will serve on Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) to design, develop, integrate, test, and deliver the beam control subsystem that lies at the very heart of a laser weapon or power beaming system. Its many functions include target acquisition, tracking, and aimpoint selection, beam power delivery to the target, beam alignment and optical stabilization, atmospheric turbulence compensation, and system safety and calibration. Thus, an ideal candidate will have strong fundamental skills, and the ability to learn on the job alongside our senior experts who have made Lockheed Martin a leader in this broad, interdisciplinary field.
We seek an energetic hands-on engineer who is highly interested in directed energy to grow with us.

What Lockheed Martin employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Lockheed Martin logo

About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912