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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Minneapolis, MN

Machine Operator

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$20 - $29/hr

Formerly known as Thomas Engineering Company now called R&M High Speed Stampings is part of the ... Use micrometers, vernier calipers, fixed gauges, material handling equipment, optical comparators ...

Optical Engineer Entry Level information

See Minneapolis, MN salary details

$86.6K

$149.9K

$175.9K

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 Minneapolis, MN is $149,901.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,600.00 and $174,300.00 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 Minneapolis, MN? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Minneapolis, MN are:
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings in Minneapolis, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,901 per year, or $72.1 per hour.

Test Technician II - 2nd Shift

Collins Aerospace

Burnsville, MN

$22.75 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 251 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-07-24

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-MN-BURNSVILLE-WEST ~ 14300 Judicial Rd ~ WEST BLDG

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

This job requires a U.S. Person. A U.S. Person is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, U.S. permanent residents, or individuals granted refugee or asylee status in the U.S. are considered U.S. persons. For a complete definition of “U.S. Person” go here. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-22/chapter-I/subchapter-M/part-120/subpart-C/section-120.62

Security Clearance Type:

None/Not Required

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

Joining Collins Aerospace isn't just about finding a job; it's about embarking on a journey to redefine the future of aerospace technology.

Collins Aerospace, an RTX company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio, and expertise to solve customers’ toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market. 

What You Will Do:

  • Interacts with other functional groups (e.g. engineering, manufacturing) on routine technical matters
  • Setting up and operating various test stands
  • Configuring test equipment for special tests as needed
  • Interpreting and recording test results
  • Recognizing and isolating test equipment failures
  • Using diagnostic tools to troubleshoot electronic units to the sub-assembly and component level
  • Reading and interpreting technical data such as component maintenance manuals, engineering prints, and schematics
  • Effectively communicating work status to team members and support staff (e.g. shift pass down, engineering, maintenance)
  • Perform technical tasks based on detailed written or verbal instructions.
  • Utilize limited variety of microelectronic, electronic, optical, electro-optical, mechanical, or electromechanical equipment, including computers and lasers.
  • Perform entry level troubleshooting, calibration or modification of hardware, fixtures, and software.
  • Participate on project teams.
  • Perform task prioritization.
  • Apply technical expertise in the evaluation, development, maintenance and use of products, devices, tests, or procedures under constantly changing conditions where some ingenuity and judgment are required.
  • Support activities through the resolution of problems and preparation and maintenance of documentation.
  • Manage work flow throughout area to achieve team goals.
  • Evaluate and troubleshoot non-conformances.
  • Fabricate hardware, equipment, tools or prototypes from drawings or sketches.
  • Estimate labor, material, and manufacturing costs for the building and repair of product or process enhancement.
  • Provide accurate recording of time changes, test data, parts usage, etc. This requires limited data interpretation. 
  • Utilize multiple databases to create/use necessary information to provide information for decision making requiring limited judgment.
  • Follows blueprints, guidelines, and/or diagrams to ensure product specifications and tolerance levels are met
  • Performs functional testing per part specific pre-established test procedure.
  • Monitors tests through completion, record test data, and service test equipment as required.
  • Documents acceptance or failure results.
  • Demonstrates proper use of simple hand/machine tools, electronic/manual test equipment and mechanical measuring devices.
  • Meets internal and external customer deadlines as determined by team
  • Acquires applicable skill/knowledge/certification as required.

Qualifications You Must Have:

  • Typically, a HS diploma with a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience.
  • U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or granted refugee or asylee status) as defined here: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-22/chapter-I/subchapter-M/part-120/subpart-C/section-120.62

Qualifications We Prefer:

  • Previous manufacturing experience
  • Mechanical Assembly background
  • Previous testing experience
  • Ability to read schematics
  • Basic troubleshooting experience
  • Basic Electronic system experience
  • mum of 1 year of relevant experience

What We Offer:

2nd Shift Schedule: 

Monday - Thursday, 3:00pm - 1:30am

Some of our competitive benefits package includes:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees

  • Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option

  • Employee Scholar Program, tuition reimbursement program

  • Life insurance and disability coverage

  • Optional coverages you can buy: Pet Insurance, Home and Auto, additional life insurance, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal

  • Ovia Health, fertility and family planning

  • Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 5 free counseling sessions

  • Incentives for a Healthy You

  • Bright Horizons, back-up child / elder care and college coach resources

  • Autism Benefit

  • Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits

  • Adoption Assistance

  • Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program

  • And more!

Avionics delivers advanced cockpit displays, vision systems, and comprehensive digital solutions for global government, commercial and business aviation customers. We provide connectivity and managed data services to ensure safety and seamless communication for passengers, crews, and militaries, from aircraft and airports to air traffic management. Join us in creating solutions that connect the world, one flight at a time. Start your application today.

*Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role.

Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.

The salary range for this role is $38,841 - $72,849. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.

At Collins, the paths we pave together lead to limitless possibility. And the bonds we form – with our customers and with each other -- propel us all higher, again and again.  

Apply now and be part of the team that’s redefining aerospace, every day.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018