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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... optical comparators, and Keyence systems. * Maintain compliance with Applied Medical's Quality ... Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, and regulatory teams ...

... optical comparators, and Keyence systems. * Maintain compliance with Applied Medical's Quality ... Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, and regulatory teams ...

Quality Inspector

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

... optical comparators, and Keyence systems. * Maintain compliance with Applied Medical's Quality ... Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, and regulatory teams ...

Showing results 41-54

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 10, 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:
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.

Tooling Technician I/II 2nd shift

Sorenson Engineering, Inc.

Yucaipa, CA • On-site

$58K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Description
Sorenson Engineering, located in Yucaipa, California, has for 65 years been a globally recognized leader in micro technology solutions for Aerospace/Defense, RF interconnect, Microwave Test, Fiber Optics, and Medical industries. Our focus is delivering value through innovation by using our expertise in precision screw machining, electroplating, value engineering, and contact assembly. We are AS9100D / ISO9001:2008 registered and certified with Nadcap accreditations for Heat Treatment (including Induction Annealing) of BeCu, and Chemical Processing, including our state-of-the-art Gold plating facility.
We deliver ultra-precise Micro Technology Solutions for the most challenging component applications. We thrive in a culture of innovation, attracting exceptional individuals who continually seek new challenges. As a leader in next-generation microtechnology, our highly skilled problem solvers face the industry's toughest challenges, performing on a global level, to advance the leading edge of high-precision solutions.
Sorenson Engineering is seeking candidates with experience inspecting products using quality plans and various metrologies including, concentricity gauges, drop gauges, pin gauges, OGP, Keyence, and VICI devices.
Summary:
Operate lathes, mills or grinders to cut, sharpen, bore, grind, repair or make tools on metal or plastic materials to job requirements.
Level I
Entry level position learning to follow procedures for cutting and sharpening tools and/or basic tool making.
Level II
Intermediate level position experienced in cutting and sharpening tools and/or tool making.
Level III
Advanced level position experienced in cutting and sharpening tools and/or tool making. Demonstrates troubleshooting skills and techniques. Trains others.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Knowledge of lathes, mills and/or grinders to make tools or parts for the production process.
  • Inspects, fabricates and finishes tools (i.e., using visual inspection techniques, microscopes, micrometers, automated measuring instruments, chamfering, buffering, polishing, and/or other finishing techniques).
  • Read and interpret drawings.
  • Understands and performs basic machine maintenance and housekeeping procedures.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Good attendance and punctuality are essential components of solid employee performance and are measured by objective standards.

Knowledge and Abilities:
Able to interpret instructions both written and oral. Able to work in a team with co-workers to resolve work issues. Advanced level math with knowledge of measuring techniques and the ability to work with micromachining tolerances (example: ± 0.0002). Able to communicate effectively in English.
Education and Experience:High School Diploma. Previous work experience in tool grinding preferred.
Physical Demands:Must be able to stand long periods of time, occasionally exert push force up to 50 pounds, must have good eyesight and hand dexterity, and able to identify and distinguish colors.
Work Environment:Will be exposed to noise, moving mechanical parts, oils/solvents, fumes, and odors that may affect the eyes, ears, nose, throat and/or skin.
I
Compensation Disclosure:
In accordance with California law, the salary range for this position reflects a good faith estimate of the base compensation. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience and other factors permitted by law.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
EOE - Disability/Vet. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Background Checks & Drug Testing:
Background screenings and pre-employment drug tests may be conducted following a conditional offer of employment, where permitted by law.
California Applicant Privacy Notice:
If you are a California resident, personal information collected as part of your application will be processed in accordance with applicable California law.
You may have the right to request access to, correct, or delete your personal information, subject to certain exceptions.
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy:
https://www.sorensoneng.com/privacy-policy/
To submit a request, please contact us at privacy@sorensoneng.com or call 855-479-4241. We may require verification of your identity before processing your request.