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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

(Entry Level) Production Technician - PCBA

Redmond, WA

$29.50 - $37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... optical, and x-ray inspection. * Run thermal and functional testing of electronic hardware ... engineering drawings, and parts lists. * Proficient in using a PC, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft ...

(Entry Level) Production Technician - PCBA

Redmond, WA · On-site

$29.50 - $37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... optical, and x-ray inspection. * Run thermal and functional testing of electronic hardware ... engineering drawings, and parts lists. * Proficient in using a PC, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft ...

Electrician

Bremerton, WA · On-site

$22 - $34/hr

Basic experience with Voltmeters, Ammeters, Ohmmeters, Megohmmeters, (ET1 only) Light Loss meters, (ET1 only) Optical Time Delay Reflectometers (OTDRs); and general hand tools, such as screwdrivers ...

Electrician

Seattle, WA

$23 - $53.74/hr

Basic experience with Voltmeters, Ammeters, Ohmmeters, Megohmmeters, (ET1 only) Light Loss meters, (ET1 only) Optical Time Delay Reflectometers (OTDRs); and general hand tools, such as screwdrivers ...

Associate AV Installation Technician

Kent, WA · On-site

$23.46 - $29.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Associate AV Installation Technician (AIT) is an entry level position responsible for ... Able to build and wire custom panels from engineering drawings. * Assisting in fiber optic cable ...

Optical Engineer Entry Level information

See Kent, WA salary details

$93.7K

$162.1K

$190.2K

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

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer entry level in Kent, WA is $162,120.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $145,600.00 and $188,500.00 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 popular job titles related to Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Kent, WA?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Kent, WA are:

What cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs?

Cities near Kent, WA with the most Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings in Kent, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $162,120 per year, or $77.9 per hour.

(Entry Level) Production Technician - PCBA

SpaceX

Redmond, WA

$29.50 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

(ENTRY LEVEL) PRODUCTION TECHNICIAN - PCBA 

At SpaceX, we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users worldwide. We've only begun to scratch the surface of our potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class technicians to help maximize Starlink's utility for communities and businesses around the globe.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Operate PCB assembly machines to manufacture circuit boards, such as: SMT placement, reflow, paste printing, conformal coating, masking, epoxy application, coating, optical, and x-ray inspection.
  • Run thermal and functional testing of electronic hardware, including setup, instrumentation, test execution, teardown, and troubleshooting. 
  • Ensure production equipment is maintained and calibrated through scheduled preventative maintenance.
  • Manage schedule priorities and independently execute work to meet company deliverables.
  • Thoroughly document failure modes and use data to improve quality.
  • Component kitting and measurement.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school degree or equivalency certificate.
  • 1+ years of hands-on work experience or vocational training/cert.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • 2+ years of experience in high-volume manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and work from layout drawings, mechanical drawings, assembly procedures, schematics, engineering drawings, and parts lists.
  • Proficient in using a PC, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office suite, ERP, and related programs.
  • Soldering proficiency including IPC and/or J-STD certification.
  • Experience setting up and running tests and experiments.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 1: $22.00 - $26.50
Level 2: $25.50 - $31.00
Level 3: $29.50 - $37.00

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.


What SpaceX employees say

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US