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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kimley-Horn

Electrical Engineering Analyst

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$91K - $99K/yr

... CCTV), fiber optic networks * An ABET accredited Electrical Engineering degree (Bachelors or ... Masters) by Summer 2026. Salary Range $91,500 - $99,000 At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently.

Murata America

Associate Data Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$121K - $146K/yr

... optical transceivers, antenna tuning and RF frontends. These intelligent and efficient ... The assigned tasks will be entry level to Moderate in Nature, requiring basic domain knowledge and ...

Murata Americas

Associate Data Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$121K - $146K/yr

... optical transceivers, antenna tuning and RF frontends. These intelligent and efficient ... The assigned tasks will be entry level to Moderate in Nature, requiring basic domain knowledge and ...

Kimley-Horn

Electrical Engineering Analyst

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$91K - $99K/yr

... optic networks Qualifications * An ABET accredited Electrical Engineering degree (Bachelors or ... Masters) by Summer 2026. Salary Range $91,500 - $99,000 Why Kimley-Horn? At Kimley-Horn, we do ...

Kimley-Horn

Electrical Engineering Analyst

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$91K - $99K/yr

... optic networks Qualifications * An ABET accredited Electrical Engineering degree (Bachelors or ... Masters) by Summer 2026. Salary Range $91,500 - $99,000 Why Kimley-Horn? At Kimley-Horn, we do ...

Eridu AI

Mechanical Engineer Consultant

Saratoga, CA · On-site

The company is in execution mode and has a world-class engineering team with decades of experience in state-of-the-art silicon, packaging, optics, software, and systems. Eridu is working with best-in ...

FieldAI

Sensor Systems Engineer-Federal

Irvine, CA

We are recruiting across a wide range of experience levels from entry level engineers to senior and ... Sensor Physics: Strong foundation in optics, signal processing, and electromagnetic wave ...

FieldAI

Sensor Systems Engineer-Federal

Irvine, CA

We are recruiting across a wide range of experience levels from entry level engineers to senior and ... Sensor Physics: Strong foundation in optics, signal processing, and electromagnetic wave ...

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All 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 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:
Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs near you
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.
Electrical Engineering Analyst

Electrical Engineering Analyst

Kimley-Horn

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$91K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Kimley-Horn rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 352 rated engineering

Job description

Kimley-Horn is looking for Electrical Engineering graduates to join our Long Beach, California (CA) office! This is not a remote position. 


  • Utilize technical software programs on a regular basis to analyze, produce, and QC deliverables for our clients
  • Solve complex problems, assist project managers, and collaborate across disciplines to produce our clients’ visions for the future built environment
  • Develop familiarity with the federal, state, and local regulations, as well as Kimley-Horn’s and our client’s practices, procedures, and standards
  • Our Electrical teams work on a wide variety of projects, such as building MEP, photometrics and lighting, power distribution, renewable energy, EV charging, security and communications, industrial controls, and more
  • Assist with technical specification and report writing electrical equipment cost research
  • Analysts could have an opportunity to:
    • Gain exposure to solar/energy projects with a focus in battery storage and PV
    • Gain exposure to Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Design – traffic operations centers, sensors, message signs, closed circuit TV cameras (CCTV), fiber optic networks

  • An ABET accredited Electrical Engineering degree (Bachelors or Masters) by Summer 2026.

Salary Range

$91,500 - $99,000


At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it— that’s why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn’s placement on the Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work” list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.

What Kimley-Horn employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967

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