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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ARKA Group

Software Engineer {S}

Ypsilanti, MI · On-site

We welcome applicants at varying experience levels, from entry level to senior level for this ... Collaborate with radar/electro-optical and research scientist experts to solve issues and iterate ...

ARKA Group

Software Engineer {S}

Ypsilanti, MI · On-site

We welcome applicants at varying experience levels, from entry level to senior level for this ... Collaborate with radar/electro-optical and research scientist experts to solve issues and iterate ...

Thorlabs

Photonics Support Engineer I

Newton, NJ · On-site

The Photonics Support Engineer I is responsible for providing entry level technical support by ... The position works with several other Photonics Support and Design Engineers to support optics ...

WSP

Early Career Civil Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · Hybrid

... optic additions. Candidates must be willing and able to work effectively and efficiently in a ... Perform routine engineering functions and provide entry-level technical assistance on various ...

WSP

Early Career Civil Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · Hybrid

... optic additions. Candidates must be willing and able to work effectively and efficiently in a ... Perform routine engineering functions and provide entry-level technical assistance on various ...

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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 Aug 23, 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?

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.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs?

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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?

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Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Early Career Substation Electrical Engineer

WSP

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated business consultants

Job description


WSP is currently initiating a search for an Entry-Level Substation Electrical Engineer for our Saint Louis, MO office. Be involved in projects with our Power Delivery Substation Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our clients' objectives and solves their challenges.
This Opportunity
The Entry Level Substation Electrical Engineer will share responsibility with the rest of the department to produce a product consistent with WSP's mission statement and our culture. They are expected to support the department in achieving the goals of the department, maintain WSP's high-quality standards, promote internal teamwork and meet the needs of our clients.
WSP brings global expertise in power delivery, power generation, and program management-anchored by the acquisition of POWER Engineers, Inc. TRC Companies have now joined WSP, deepening our power practice and expanding our energy advisory and intelligent grid services. We're partnering with clients to shape how energy systems evolve around the world-and we need your help.
Your Impact
  • Perform the detailed design of low to extra-high voltage substations including, but not limited to:
    • One-line diagrams
    • Schematics
    • Wiring diagrams
    • SCADA
    • Communications
    • Station physical layouts
    • Sections/Elevations
    • Cable and conduit plans and details
    • Ground grid design and details
    • Foundation plans and details
    • Structural plans and details
    • Control enclosure design and details
    • Lightning protection plans
    • Yard lighting plans
    • Bills of Materials
    • Site visits
  • Support QA/QC for deliverables to clients
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources, and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.
  • Shall learn, understand, and adhere to client standards and processes while working individually or within a team to complete complex and technically challenging designs.
  • The successful candidate will be involved in all aspects of transmission line design for new lines, relocations, upgrades, and fiber optic additions.
Who You Are
Required Qualifications
  • BSEE (BS Electrical Engineering) or BSEET (BS Electrical Engineering Technology) degree, from an accredited university preferably with a power option
  • Strong knowledge and understanding of electrical engineering to build on
  • Candidates should enjoy living in the St Louis area, or have a desire and ability to relocate there with minimal assistance
  • Must have a strong command of the English language with good written and oral communication skills in order to work effectively with internal team members and external client personnel
  • Must be legally authorized to work permanently in the U.S. without the need for work sponsorship
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.
  • 0-1 years of experience

Preferred Qualifications
  • At least three months of relevant electrical engineering work experience; could be on an internship or co-op basis
  • Minimum 3.0 Grade Point Average (GPA)
  • Knowledge of electrical utility substations and familiarity with substation design
  • Engineer In Training certificate (EIT) or passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam

Disclaimer:
  • Relocation assistance is not available for this role.

#LI-AN2
About Us
About WSP
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.
www.wsp.com
WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.
At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?
WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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