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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Houston, TX

This is an entry-level position and is based out of Houston, TX. Your Role * Design and develop ... fiber optic or wireless communications topologies. * Organize and conduct engineering ...

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 ...

Cable Runner

Houston, TX · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

This entry-level role focuses on pulling, routing, and organizing network wires in diverse ... Pull and route structured cabling (Cat5e, Cat6, Coaxial, and Fiber Optic) through walls, ceilings ...

Operator

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$15 - $17.50/hr

... entry-level candidates with strong hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. If you can ... and Engineering career paths. You'll work with cutting-edge electronic and optical products in a ...

Optical Engineer Entry Level information

See Houston, TX salary details

$79.3K

$137.1K

$160.9K

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer entry level in Houston, TX is $137,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,200.00 and $159,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Houston, TX?

For Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $137,144 per year, or $65.9 per hour.

ITS and Traffic Engineer

AtkinsRéalis

Houston, TX • On-site

$70 - $85/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Overview

AtkinsRéalis is seeking an ITS (Intelligent Transportation Systems) and Traffic Engineer to join our ITS/Traffic Team. This is an entry-level position and is based out of Houston, TX.


Your Role

  • Design and develop plans and drawings including the development of preliminary layout and/or final drawings detailing ITS/Traffic design and studies. Specifically, work will include design of traffic signals, highway illumination, signing and pavement marking, and ITS. Other activities may include development of traffic safety studies, railroad crossing safety analysis, utility coordination, electrical service calculations, fiber optic or wireless communications topologies.

  • Organize and conduct engineering investigations and planning work which have a well-defined scope.



  • Provide engineering services during construction activities by reviewing shop drawings for conformance with specifications; prepare records and progress reports defining construction progress; observe construction procedures under the guidance of a more experienced professional and evaluate the results from quality control testing.

  • Contribute to the development of specifications and permit applications and develop miscellaneous reports. Prepare preliminary man-hour, cost and material quantity estimates.

  • Participate in quality control checks, maintaining quality standards in all work produced, checking computations, and/or reviewing designs and drawings created by others.


About You

  • EXPERIENCE:

    • 0-2 Years of professional experience in a related technical field.



  • EDUCATION:

    • Completion of Bachelor's degree in Civil or Electrical Engineering degree from an ABET accredited college/university.



  • SPECIAL SKILLS:

    • Basic computer skills required to enter data into spreadsheets or databases.

    • Math skills to perform simple calculations; willingness to learn.

    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

    • Experience with OpenRoads Designer or MicroStation (preferred).

    • Proficient interpersonal and communications skills.

    • Capability to develop technical writings and reports.



  • PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATIONS: E.I. or E.I.T. (preferred)


Rewards & benefits

At AtkinsRéalis, our values—Safety, Integrity, Collaboration, Innovation, and Excellence—are more than just words. They are the foundation of who we are and how we work. These principles shape our culture, guide our decisions, and inspire us to create an environment where every team member feels empowered to grow, succeed, and make a meaningful impact.


As an entry-level Full-Time employee, you will enjoy a robust rewards package including enrollment into Emerge, our new graduate experience, providing:



  • Opportunities to work on various projects of ranging size and scope

  • Support & structured mentorship from various professionals throughout the global AtkinsRéalis network

  • Formal business and soft-skills training on topics such as time management, resilience, emotional intelligence, feedback, and communication

  • Integration into a robust Emerging Professional Network

  • Additional learning and development programs, training, career opportunities and a highly regarded tuition reimbursement program

  • Additional benefits may include medical, dental, vision, company-paid life and short- and long-term disability benefits, employer-matched 401(k) with 100% vesting, employee stock purchase plan, Paid Time Off, leaves of absences options, flexible work options, recognition and employee satisfaction programs, employee assistance program, and voluntary benefits. You can review our comprehensive benefits page here.


About AtkinsRéalis

We’re AtkinsRéalis, a world-class engineering services and nuclear organization. We connect people, data and technology to transform the world’s’infrastructure and energy systems. Together, with our industry partners and clients, and our global team of consultants, designers, engineers and project managers, we can change the world. We’re committed to leading our clients across our various end markets to engineer a better future for our planet and its people.


Find out more.


Additional Information

Expected compensation range is between $70,000 - $85,000 annually depending on skills, experience, and geographical location.


AtkinsRéalis is an equal opportunity, Drug-Free employer. EOE/Veteran/Disability


Please review AtkinsRéalis' Equal Opportunity Statement here.


Applications for this position are accepted on a rolling basis; no application deadline applies.


AtkinsRéalis cares about your privacy and is committed to protecting your privacy. Please consult our Privacy Notice on our Careers site to know more about how we collect, use and transfer your Personal Data. By submitting your personal information to AtkinsRéalis, you confirm that you have read and accept our Privacy Notice.


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