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How much do optical engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineer intern in California is $25.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $28.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical engineer intern do?

An Optical Engineer Intern assists in designing, testing, and optimizing optical systems, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They work under experienced engineers to conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop prototypes. Their responsibilities may also include running simulations, troubleshooting optical components, and documenting findings. This role provides hands-on experience in optics and photonics, crucial for careers in research, manufacturing, and product development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical engineer intern?

To thrive as an Optical Engineer Intern, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and mathematics, generally demonstrated through coursework or laboratory experience in optical engineering or related fields. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD programs, and laboratory instrumentation is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively make candidates stand out. These skills enable interns to contribute meaningfully to technical projects, accurately perform experiments, and smoothly integrate with multidisciplinary engineering teams.

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

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in California are:

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For Optical Engineer Intern jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer Intern jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Optical Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities in California with the most Optical Engineer Intern job openings:

Optical Engineer Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Intern job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,174 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Engineering Intern (Optical Systems)

Irvine, CA • On-site

Zymo Research Corporation
Biotechnology Research and Development • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Zymo Research Corporationexternal

$20/hr

Internship

Re-posted 26 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Contribute to the design, development, and integration of optical systems for imaging applications.

  • Utilize CAD tools to create models, develop design iterations, and build and test prototypes using techniques such as 3D printing and CNC machining.

  • Perform alignment, testing, and calibration of optical systems, and undertake biological assays to evaluate system performance.

Job description

Job Summary:
We are seeking an Engineering Intern, focusing on the design of optical systems within the biotechnology industry. This position is ideal for students or recent graduates with a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Bioengineering or related fields, offering a pathway to hands-on experience in designing and developing advanced optical systems for microscopy and diagnostics applications. This is a highly interdisciplinary position at the intersection of engineering and biology.
This is an onsite position at 20-40 hours/week with a preferred start date in Fall 2026.
If you are passionate about directly contributing to scientific advancement alongside industry veterans in a highly collaborative environment, we want you!
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Optical and Mechanical System Design: Contribute to the design, development, and integration of optical systems for imaging applications.
  • Prototyping & Fabrication: Utilize CAD tools for creating models and design iterations. Build and test prototypes employing techniques such as 3D printing and CNC machining.
  • System Testing & Validation: Perform alignment, testing, and calibration of optical systems. Undertake biological assays to evaluate system performance.
  • Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Work closely with engineers and scientists to build and test prototype systems, ensuring compliance with design requirements and performance goals.
  • Documentation & Compliance: Maintain detailed records of design processes and testing results to support project development and potential audits.

Key Skills and Qualifications:
  • Currently pursuing or recently graduated with a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related field.
  • Good understanding of optical and mechanical engineering principles and technologies.
  • Proficiency in CAD software (e.g. SolidWorks, OnShape) for mechanical design; hands-on experience with prototyping tools (e.g. 3D printing) is highly valued.
  • Deep interest in integrating engineering principles with biological applications.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
  • Aptitude for developing Python scripts in Linux and Windows environments to support automation, data analysis, and system integration. Familiarity with machine vision software, image processing workflows, and camera based inspection systems is highly desirable.

Preferred Skills:
  • Exposure to biological assays and imaging techniques.
  • Experience with alignment and calibration of optical systems (e.g. spectrophotometry).
  • Understanding of electrical engineering principles.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1994, Zymo Research has been proudly serving the scientific community by providing innovative, reliable, and high-quality research tools and products. Whether it's DNA, RNA, epigenetics, microbiomics, protein, or yeast-based research, our philosophy remains the same: To provide the highest quality products in the industry while ensuring they are both simple to use and reliable in their performance.
Recognized as a Top Workplace by the Orange County Register in 2021, 2022, and named a Top Workplace USA in 2023, Zymo Research continues to be a vibrant community where employees thrive, feel connected, and are inspired by their work. If you are passionate about contributing to scientific advancement and want to be part of an exceptional team in a dynamic, growing company, we'd love to hear from you!
Compensation, Benefits, and Perks:
The estimated base compensation range for this position is $20.00 per hour at the time of posting. Actual compensation details will be provided in writing at the time of offer, if applicable, and is based on several factors we believe fairly and accurately impact compensation, including geographic location, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other job permitted factors.
Zymo Research also offers competitive benefits and perks including:
  • EAP Sessions
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Complimentary fruit, snacks, and beverages
  • Complimentary catered lunches on Thursdays
  • Complimentary EV Charging

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer:
Zymo Research welcomes candidates of all backgrounds. These include sex, age, color, race, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, physical & mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, or any other protected status as defined by federal, state, or local law.
Location:
Onsite - Zymo Research HQ - 17062 Murphy Ave, Irvine, CA, 92614
Disclaimer: At Zymo, we take the integrity of our hiring process seriously. Please be aware of fraudulent recruitment activities that may use our name to deceive job seekers. We will never ask for payment, sensitive personal information, or financial details during the recruitment process.
All legitimate communications will come from an official Zymo or TriNet Hiring email address. If you are contacted by anyone claiming to represent us using a free email service (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or asking for payment, please treat this as fraudulent and report it immediately to careers@zymoresearch.com

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