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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for entry level candidates. To be successful in this role you should be hands on ... Precision mechanical design; optical and opto-mechanical design; mechatronics. Candidates should ...

Laser Engineer

Saint Clair, MI · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Whether you're an entry-level candidate or bring years of experience, we offer knowledge ... Degree in Laser Electro-optics, Biomedical Equipment Technology, Electronics, or a similar field ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Engineer Entry Level information

See Michigan salary details

$72.3K

$125.2K

$146.9K

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

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer entry level in Michigan is $125,170.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,400.00 and $145,600.00 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 Michigan? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Michigan? For Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,170 per year, or $60.2 per hour.
Mechanical Design Engineer (E)

Mechanical Design Engineer (E)

KLA Corporation

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$84K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Company Overview
KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world's leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow's electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.
Job Description/Preferred Qualifications
Mechanical Design Engineers are core to KLA's technology, while we do not currently have an opening, we are always building ourMechanical Engineering talent community, we are interested in learning about your background.
Apply to this posting for Future Opportunities with KLA.
Join our world class team of engineers and scientists working on innovative inspection tools for the semiconductor industry!
We are looking for entry level candidates. To be successful in this role you should be hands on, highly motivated and a willing team player.
Candidates must have a solid understanding in some or all of the following areas:
  • Precision mechanical design; optical and opto-mechanical design; mechatronics.
  • Candidates should also have some knowledge in heat transfer, vibrations, fluid dynamics and manufacturing processes.
  • Primary responsibilities with this position include setting up and conducting experimental lab work to validate specs and conceptual designs, debugging and fixing, design or redesign of mechanical components, and working with vendors to fabricate parts to specifications.

Minimum Qualifications
Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 years.
BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering
Base Pay Range: $84,800.00 - $144,200.00
Primary Location: USA-MI-Ann Arbor-KLA
KLA's total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave.
Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.
KLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at talent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation.
Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees. KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA's Careers website for legitimate job postings. KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.