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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Boeing

Entry Level Lab Technician

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$44.20K - $59.80K/yr

Entry Level Lab Technician Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS) is ... Assists engineers and senior technicians with efforts such as optical alignment, maintenance, and ...

PZI International

Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Position Summary Polaris Sensor Technologies, Inc. is seeking an entry-level Software Engineer to join a multidisciplinary team developing software for electro-optical and sensor systems. This role ...

PZI International

Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Position Summary Polaris Sensor Technologies, Inc. is seeking an entry-level Software Engineer to join a multidisciplinary team developing software for electro-optical and sensor systems. This role ...

Startech Networks Inc

OSP Telecom Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

This is an excellent opportunity for freshers or entry-level candidates who are interested in building a career in fiber optics and telecommunications. The OSP Field Engineer will assist with field ...

Startech Networks Inc

OSP Telecom Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

This is an excellent opportunity for freshers or entry-level candidates who are interested in building a career in fiber optics and telecommunications. The OSP Field Engineer will assist with field ...

DPR Construction

Telecom Field Engineer

Monroe, LA · On-site

Job Summary DPR Construction is seeking a Telecom Field Engineer with entry-level experience in ... optics, outside plant (OSP) deployments, and low-voltage systems. The Telecom Field Engineer will ...

DPR Construction

Telecom Field Engineer

Monroe, LA · On-site

Job Summary DPR Construction is seeking a Telecom Field Engineer with entry-level experience in ... optics, outside plant (OSP) deployments, and low-voltage systems. The Telecom Field Engineer will ...

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Optical Engineer Entry Level information

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$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

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

As of Jun 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer entry level in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.
More about Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs? Cities with the most Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs are:
Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Entry Level Lab Technician

Entry Level Lab Technician

Boeing

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$44.20K - $59.80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 585 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 514 rated manufacturers

Job description

Entry Level Lab Technician

Company:

The Boeing Company

Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS) is looking for an Entry Level Lab Technician (Level 1) to join our team at Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The role supports the Air Force Research Lab in their advancement of Space Domain Awareness capabilities using ground-based telescopes. Starfire Optical Range is a world class research facility with recognized achievements in adaptive optics, enabled by the quality, enthusiasm, and dedication of our entire team. Our team consists of engineers and technicians in all disciplines required to plan, design, integrate, and test complex optical, electronic, laser systems to achieve research objectives.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Plans, conducts, and documents tests on products, systems, components, materials, and manufacturing processes and technologies

  • Troubleshoots and resolves complex laboratory and test-related problems

  • Coordinates test laboratory activities, maintenance and repairs, and personnel training

  • Assists government agencies, safety and hazardous materials teams in the event of emergencies

  • Assists engineers and senior technicians with efforts such as optical alignment, maintenance, and repair

  • Serve as a crew member for tests, being trained in optics, lasers, telescopes, and telescope mount operations

This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at the listed location options.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/ Experience):

  • Experience in engineering technician, construction or facilities maintenance disciplines

  • Experience working with powered hand tools or equipment

  • Willing and able to work variable shifts; including days, evenings, nights and weekends

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • 2+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience

  • Active U.S. Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance

  • Experience operating complex computer-based analysis or control systems

  • Experience with high power lasers

  • Experience with optical alignment techniques

  • Experience with electronics/electrical systems

  • Experience with mechanical systems

Conflict of Interest:

Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Shift:

This position is for Variable shift.

Pay and Benefits:

At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary pay range: $44,200 - $59,800

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Not Applicable

Relocation:

Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.

Export Control Requirement:

This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Safety Sensitive:

This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.

Security Clearance:

This position requires an active U.S. Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active)

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 4 (United States of America)

Stay safe from recruitment fraud! The only way to apply for a position at Boeing is via our Careers website. Learn how to protect yourself from recruitment fraud - Recruitment Fraud Warning

Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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