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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

... entry-level position. Under close supervision, our Damage Prevention Technicians will learn and ... Communicating with clients, engineers and management. * Using a variety of techniques (electrical ...

This position will lead the installation of fiber optic cable for various telecommunication ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, operating equipment, leading ...

This position will lead the installation of fiber optic cable for various telecommunication ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, operating equipment, leading ...

This position will lead the installation of fiber optic cable for various telecommunication ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, operating equipment, leading ...

This position will lead the installation of fiber optic cable for various telecommunication ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, operating equipment, leading ...

This position will lead the installation of fiber optic cable for various telecommunication ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, operating equipment, leading ...

This position will lead the installation of fiber optic cable for various telecommunication ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, operating equipment, leading ...

This position will provide aerial installation of fiber optic cable for various telecommunication ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, climbing poles, loading materials, etc. on ...

This position will provide aerial installation of fiber optic cable for various telecommunication ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, climbing poles, loading materials, etc. on ...

This position will lead the installation of fiber optic cable for various telecommunication ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, operating equipment, leading ...

This position will lead the installation of fiber optic cable for various telecommunication ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, operating equipment, leading ...

This position will lead the installation of fiber optic cable for various telecommunication ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, operating equipment, leading ...

This position will lead the installation of fiber optic cable for various telecommunication ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, operating equipment, leading ...

Showing results 41-58

Optical Engineer Entry Level information

See Texas salary details

$77.3K

$133.8K

$157K

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer entry level in Texas is $133,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,200.00 and $155,600.00 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 Texas? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Texas? For Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $133,796 per year, or $64.3 per hour.

Traffic Systems Technician I or II (Traffic Operations)

Texas Department of Transportation

Odessa, TX

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Texas Department Of Transportation rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Performs entry-level work activities related to the installation, repair, troubleshooting and maintenance of traffic systems, communication, illumination and/or data collection devices/systems. Work may be performed in heavy traffic and may require extensive statewide travel. Work may require contact with governmental and private entities. Employees at this level perform assignments following specific instructions and are subject to frequent review by the immediate supervisor.

Essential Duties:

Traffic Systems Technician I:

  • Assists in installing, maintaining, modifying, adjusting, testing, troubleshooting, inspecting and/or repair of electronic traffic control, communication, traffic data collection, and/or illumination systems.
  • Assists in installing, troubleshooting and maintaining hardware and software pertaining to traffic systems, Intelligent Transportation Systems or the Statewide Traffic Analysis and Reporting System.
  • Assists in monitoring and maintaining clear work zones and cleans construction site at job completion
  • Assists in operating, maintaining and servicing equipment such as bucket trucks, drilling and pole setting rigs, concrete saws, trenching machines, cable locating instruments, insulation testers and/or 18-wheel calibration truck.
  • Follows applicable safety procedures when working in an area where other utilities such as high voltage lines, gas lines, water and sewage lines and heavy traffic are located.
  • Learns to identify, troubleshoot, problem solve and identify possible new site characteristic
  • Responds to emergency situations to assist with repair and maintenance of traffic signals, systems, lighting or traffic data collection equipment
  • Performs other job responsibilities as assigned

Additional Duties for Traffic Systems Technician II:

  • Assists in designing and reviewing traffic signal, traffic data collection and illumination design projects
  • Identifies, troubleshoots and problem solves possible new site characteristics.
  • Inspects construction methods, workmanship and maintenance procedures to ensure contractors build, install, maintain and repair traffic control/data collection related equipment or facilities in accordance with plans, specifications and contract requirements.
  • Installs, maintains and replaces TV cameras, motorized LED and fiber optic signs and cables; monitors communication devices/systems; as required moves related equipment/items.
  • Installs, maintains, modifies, adjusts, tests, troubleshoots, inspects and/or repairs electronic traffic control, communication, traffic data collection and/or illumination systems.
  • Installs, troubleshoots and maintains hardware and software related to traffic systems, Intelligent Transportation Systems or the Statewide Traffic Analysis and Reporting System.
  • Monitors and maintains clear work zones and cleans construction site at job completion.
  • Operates, maintains and services equipment such as bucket trucks, drilling and pole setting rigs, concrete saws, trenching machines, cable locating instruments, insulation testers and/or 18-wheel calibration truck.
  • Prepares written reports that provide feedback on systems including ease of installation and setup, status of inventory needs, any problems encountered or other issues.
  • Assists in working with other governmental and private entities concerning utilities and rights-of-way.
  • Follows applicable safety procedures when working in an area where other utilities such as high voltage lines, gas lines, water and sewage lines and heavy traffic are located.
  • Responds to emergency situations to assist with repair and maintenance of traffic signals, systems, lighting or traffic data collection equipment.
  • Performs other job responsibilities as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:Education: 

High School Grad or Equivalent in general high school studies.

Experience: 

Traffic Systems Technician I:

No experience required

Traffic Systems Technician II:

1 YEAR Construction, electronic troubleshooting, electrical construction/installation, electromechanical, traffic management, transportation engineering, design, traffic systems maintenance (Experience can be satisfied by fulltime or prorated parttime equivalent) Substitutions for Minimum Qualifications

Licenses and Certifications:
  • Valid driver's license at the time of application. This position requires driving a state vehicle.
  • Must have a Commercial Class "A" Driver's License or have obtained a CDL "A" License, within 120 calendar days from date of employment.
    • Currently Military or Veterans: US Military CDL Equivalent Conditions of Employment: US Military License candidates must successfully obtain Texas Class "A" CDL within 120 days of employment. https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/military-skills-test-waiver
Competencies:

Traffic Systems Technician I:

Some knowledge of 

  • Applicable plans, specifications and estimates preparation, review, processing and compliance requirements
  • Construction equipment operations
  • The Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
  • Electrical construction procedures
  • Applicable industry safety standards, guidelines, and specification codes
  • Hazardous materials management methods and procedures
     

Proficient skill in
Using, maintaining and repairing tools and equipment of the trade
Safely using, operating, and maintaining applicable equipment
Maintaining a safe and effective working relationship with others

Some skill in
Communicating technical information effectively
Interpreting applicable information
Using computers, applicable programs, applications, and systems
Using applicable electronic test equipment

Ability to
Follow verbal and written instructions
Work with electricity up to 600 volts
Move up to 50 pounds (See essential duties, for example of items to be moved.)
Follow applicable safety standards, practices and procedures
 

Traffic Systems Technician II:
Considerable knowledge of

  • Applicable plans, specifications and estimates preparation, review, processing and compliance requirements
  • Traffic engineering terminology and fundamentals
  • Construction equipment operations
  • The Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
  • Electrical construction procedures
  • Concepts, techniques and tools used in planning, designing and implementing database management systems and related technologies
  •  Applicable industry safety standards, guidelines, and specification codes
    Some knowledge of
  • Traffic flow principles and procedures
  • Digital data communications and closed circuit television systems
  • Reading and interpreting applicable plans, schematics, blueprints and maps
  • Collecting, sorting and compiling data
  • Communicating technical information effectively
  • Interpreting applicable information
  • Using computers, applicable programs, applications, and systems
  • Using applicable hand and power tools, equipment, and mechanical devices of the trade
  • Using applicable electronic test equipment
  • Using, maintaining and repairing of tools and equipment of the trade
  • Preparing and maintaining confidential and sensitive records, files, and reports
  • Safely using, operating, and maintaining applicable equipment
  • Maintaining a safe and effective working relationship with others
    Ability to
  • Follow verbal and written instructions
  • Work with electricity up to 600 volts
  • Move up to 50 pounds (See essential duties for example of items to be moved.
  • Follow applicable safety standards, practices and procedures
    Other Attributes
  • Exercises logic and reasoning to define problems, establish facts and draw valid conclusions; makes decisions that
    support business objectives and goals
     
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

Traffic Systems Technician I:

  • Sedentary work: Lift up to 10 lbs at a time and occasionally carry files/small tools
  • Light work: Lift up to 20 lbs at a time and frequently lift or carry objects up to 10 lbs
  • Medium work: Lift up to 50 lbs at a time and frequently lift or carry objects up to 25 lbs
  • Climbing - ascending/descending ladders, stairs, scaffoldings, ramps, etc
  • Balancing-walking, standing, crouching on various surfaces without falling
  • Stooping-bending body downward and forward by bending spine at waist
  • Kneeling-bending legs at knee to come to a rest on knee(s)
  • Crouching-bending body downward and forward by bending leg(s) and spine
  • Crawling-moving about on hands and knees or hands and feet
  • Reaching-extending hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction
  • Standing-prolonged periods of time
  • Walking-moving on foot to accomplish tasks: long distance/from one work site to another
  • Pushing-using upper extremities to press against object with force to move in a direction
  • Pulling-using upper extremities to exert force moving objects in a sustained motion
  • Lifting-raising objects from lower to higher position/horizontally to a different position
  • Fingering-picking, pinching, typing; working primarily with fingers rather than whole hand
  • Grasping-applying pressure to an object with fingers and palm
  • Feeling-determining size, shape, temperature or texture of objects
  • Talking-expressing or exchanging ideas by spoken words
  • Hearing-perceive sound at normal speaking levels; receive information by oral communication
  • Repetitive Motion-substantial movements of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers
  • Close Visual Acuity-work includes data/figures; view a computer screen; extensive reading
  • Close Visual Acuity-work includes visual inspection of small defects/parts
  • Close Visual Acuity-using measurement devices; and/or assembly or fabrication parts
  • Visual Acuity-operate machines, such as drill presses, power saws, and mills
  • Visual Acuity-operate motor vehicles and/or heavy equipment
  • Visual Acuity-determine work quality/make general observations of facilities/structures

Traffic Systems Technician II:

  • Subject to environmental conditions; protection from weather but not temperature changes
  • Subject to outside environmental conditions; no effective weather protection
  • Subject to inside and outside environmental conditions
  • Subject to extreme cold and heat; below 32 and/or above 100 degrees for more than one hour
  • Sedentary work: Lift up to 10 lbs at a time and occasionally carry files/small tools
  • Light work: Lift up to 20 lbs at a time and frequently lift or carry objects up to 10 lbs
  • Medium work: Lift up to 50 lbs at a time and frequently lift or carry objects up to 25 lbs
  • Climbing - ascending/descending ladders, stairs, scaffoldings, ramps, etc
  • Balancing-walking, standing, crouching on various surfaces without falling
  • Stooping-bending body downward and forward by bending spine at waist
  • Kneeling-bending legs at knee to come to a rest on knee(s)
  • Crouching-bending body downward and forward by bending leg(s) and spine
  • Crawling-moving about on hands and knees or hands and feet
  • Reaching-extending hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction
  • Standing-prolonged periods of time
  • Walking-moving on foot to accomplish tasks: long distance/from one work site to another
  • Pushing-using upper extremities to press against object with force to move in a direction
  • Pulling-using upper extremities to exert force moving objects in a sustained motion
  • Lifting-raising objects from lower to higher position/horizontally to a different position
  • Fingering-picking, pinching, typing; working primarily with fingers rather than whole hand
  • Grasping-applying pressure to an object with fingers and palm
  • Feeling-determining size, shape, temperature or texture of objects
  • Talking-expressing or exchanging ideas by spoken words
  • Repetitive Motion-substantial movements of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers
  • Close Visual Acuity-work includes data/figures; view a computer screen; extensive reading
  • Close Visual Acuity-work includes visual inspection of small defects/parts
  • Close Visual Acuity-using measurement devices; and/or assembly or fabrication part
  • Visual Acuity-operate machines, such as drill presses, power saws, and mills
  • Visual Acuity-operate motor vehicles and/or heavy equipment
  • Visual Acuity-determine work quality/make general observations of facilities/structures
Conditions of Employment:

Please read the Standard Conditions of Employment (TxDOT) for all positions.

  • This job has been identified as physically demanding and will require a pre-employment physical.

  • Must pass a drug test prior to employment for safety impact positions. This is a Safety Impact position and will be subject to random drug testing.

    • Please note that the Department of Transportation's Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulation - 49 CFR Part 40, at 40.151(e) - does not authorize "medical marijuana" under a state law to be a valid medical explanation for a positive drug test result for an employee in this position.

  • Must be able to report for duty within 30 minutes of notification on a 24-hour basis to respond to emergency situations.

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