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Optical Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Rivet Industries

Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Optical Engineer Location: 2550 N First Street Suite 250, San Jose, California 95131 Compensation*: $175,000-$250,000 USD + benefits Role Description: We are seeking a motivated Optical Engineer to ...

AEI-CIG

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$110K - $200K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking an Optical Engineer to support the design, development, and optimization of optical transceiver products for high-speed optical communication systems. The candidate ...

Apple

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159K - $206K/yr

The team is looking for an Optical Engineer to work on the development of custom illumination and sensing components. Bachelor's in Optical Science, Optical Engineering, Physics, or relevant field of ...

Gamma Scientific

CA · On-site

$128K - $166K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer will be responsible for designing, testing, and optimizing optical systems and instruments. Day-to-day tasks include optical design, systems development, laser integration ...

Aeva, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$152K - $197K/yr

Aeva is looking to bring on an Optical Engineer to join our dynamic, fast-paced, and highly innovative environment. The position will contribute to the design, development, and testing of complex ...

Aeva, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$132K - $179K/yr

Aeva is looking to bring on an Optical Engineer to join our dynamic, fast-paced, and highly innovative environment. The position will contribute to the design, development, and testing of complex ...

Aeva, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$132K - $179K/yr

Aeva is looking to bring on an Optical Engineer to join our dynamic, fast-paced, and highly innovative environment. The position will contribute to the design, development, and testing of complex ...

Apple

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159K - $206K/yr

As an optical engineer focused on novel instrumentations, you will be responsible for designing and developing industry leading optical instruments for metrology systems. These optical instruments ...

Gamma Scientific

Senior Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA

$137K - $177K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer will be responsible for designing, testing, and optimizing optical systems and instruments. Day-to-day tasks include optical design, systems development, laser integration ...

OMNIVISION

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance. Responsibilities: * Design ...

Apple

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$147K - $272K/yr

The team is looking for an Optical Engineer to work on the development of custom illumination and sensing components.","responsibilities":"Simulate, optimize and tolerance the performance of complex ...

OMNIVISION

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$120K - $200K/yr

The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance. Responsibilities: * Design ...

OMNIVISION

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance. Responsibilities: * Design ...

Ephemeris Net

Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$160K - $250K/yr

The Role We are looking for an Optical Engineer to own the design, build, test, and flight of the optical systems that move data through the Ephemeris Net network, including coherent optical ...

Apple

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$147K - $272K/yr

Description As an optical engineer focused on novel instrumentations, you will be responsible for designing and developing industry leading optical instruments for metrology systems. These optical ...

Astrion

Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$152K - $196K/yr

Overview Optical Engineer LOCATION: Mountain View, CA JOB STATUS: Full-time CERTIFICATION: N/A TRAVEL: Limited; as needed US Citizen ONLY Astrion is seeking an Optical Engineer, with either an active ...

The Aerospace Corporation

Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$137K - $177K/yr

We are seeking to hire a laser communications engineer (Engineering Specialist) to join the Optical Communications Department. The Optical Communications Department provides technical leadership to ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in California

Optical Engineer information

See California salary details

$81.9K

$141.7K

$166.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in California is $141,730.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $164,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optical Engineer vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical EngineerOptical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in optics or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of optical systems in labs or R&D settingsAssembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical equipment in manufacturing or labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, aerospace, defenseManufacturers, optical labs, production facilities

Optical Engineers focus on designing and developing optical systems, requiring higher education and involved in R&D. Optical Technicians handle the assembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical devices, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the optics industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What is an optical engineer?

An optical engineer designs, develops, and tests systems and devices that utilize light, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging systems. They often work with optical materials, use simulation software, and require knowledge of physics and engineering principles to improve optical performance and functionality.

What Does an Optical Engineer Do?

An optical engineer oversees the scientific application of optics and light in an industrial, research, or manufacturing setting. As an optical engineering professional, your responsibilities include the design of instruments and products that rely on optics, from space telescopes to DVD players. You also may work in research and development to create new technologies and applications for optical science. Your specific duties and the level of education you need varies depending on the field in which you work

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and laboratory equipment is commonly required, along with relevant certifications like SPIE or OSA membership. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this field. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing precise optical systems, solving complex technical challenges, and collaborating on innovative projects.

What are some typical challenges Optical Engineers face when working on new product development?

Optical Engineers involved in new product development often encounter challenges such as balancing optical performance with manufacturability and cost constraints. They must collaborate closely with mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure system integration meets all technical requirements. Additionally, they need to troubleshoot issues that arise during prototyping, such as unexpected aberrations or alignment difficulties, and iterate designs rapidly to meet project timelines. Effective communication and creative problem-solving are essential in overcoming these hurdles.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced optical engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or advanced research can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, management responsibilities, or significant expertise in optical systems and laser technologies. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives.

What does an optical engineer do?

An optical engineer designs and develops devices and systems that use the properties of light, such as lenses, lasers, microscopes, and fiber optics. They use principles of physics and engineering to solve problems related to the generation, transmission, and detection of light. Optical engineers work in a variety of industries, including telecommunications, aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing. Their work often involves research, testing, and improving optical components and systems to enhance performance and efficiency.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to their expertise in designing and developing optical systems for industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. The field requires strong knowledge of optics, photonics, and related tools, and job growth is driven by advancements in technology and increasing reliance on optical components.

What do optical engineers work on?

Optical engineers design, develop, and test optical systems and components such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They work on projects related to telecommunications, medical instruments, imaging systems, and laser technology, often using tools like CAD software and requiring knowledge of physics and optics principles.
More about Optical Engineer jobs
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What cities in California are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
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Optical Engineer jobs near you

Optical Engineer

Rivet Industries

San Jose, CA • On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

About Rivet
Rivet is an American company building integrated task systems - fusing hardened hardware with software, sensors, AI, and networking - for industrial workforces and defense personnel. We create capabilities that multiply the effectiveness of every individual and withstand the world's toughest environments.
We serve the people who build, operate, maintain, and defend our way of life. From technicians and engineers to first responders and service members, they embody the hard work, ingenuity, and meritocratic values that drive Western prosperity. Yet too often they are forced to rely on outdated tools that fail under modern pressures. Rivet exists to reset that priority.
At Rivet, you'll join a mission-driven team that fuses disciplines to deliver decisive outcomes where they matter most. Whether shaping our technology, strengthening our partnerships, or building our culture, every role here contributes to equipping the front lines with the modern systems they deserve.
EOE
Work Authorization Requirement: Due to the nature of our business and compliance with federal regulations, all candidates must be a "U.S. Person". Upon hire, you will be required to provide documentation verifying your status as a U.S. Citizen, a lawful permanent resident, or a protected individual under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
Role: Optical Engineer
Location: 2550 N First Street Suite 250, San Jose, California 95131
Compensation*: $175,000-$250,000 USD + benefits
Role Description: We are seeking a motivated Optical Engineer to join our Augmented Reality (AR) hardware team and take a key role in the design, simulation, prototyping, and testing of advanced optical systems for near-eye displays and sensing. You will work closely with industrial designers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and perception teams to bring next-generation augmented reality products from concept to production.
Responsibilities
  • Lead the optical design and analysis of near-eye display (NED) subsystems, including waveguides, projectors, lenses, illumination, and imaging optics.
  • Develop and maintain optical models using tools such as Zemax, Code V, LightTools, or equivalent.
  • Define optical performance requirements and flow them down to component and subsystem specifications.
  • Drive laboratory setup, alignment, and characterization of optical prototypes.
  • Document optical designs, test procedures, and experimental results.
  • Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and perception teams to integrate optical modules into systems.
  • Interface with external suppliers on technology evaluation and component selection (microdisplays, waveguides, lenses, coatings, light sources).
  • Contribute to design reviews and continuous improvement of optical architectures.

Role Requirements
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
  • Strong foundation in geometric optics, physical optics, display and imaging metrics.
  • Proficiency with at least one optical design tool (e.g., Zemax, Code V, LightTools).
  • Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to learn in a fast-paced start-up environment. Ability to manage projects independently.
  • Ability to communicate clearly across disciplines and contribute to system-level trade studies.
  • Must be a US Person (citizen or permanent resident).

Preferred Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
  • 3-5 years of professional experience in optics, display, or photonics.
  • Knowledge of microdisplay-based systems (LCOS, OLED, microLED).
  • Demonstrated experience in near-eye display technologies (AR, VR, and MR) and optics
  • Experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for data analysis and modeling.

*Total compensation may vary within this range and is determined by years and level of relevant experience, job-related skills, education, and other factors. In addition to base salary, this role may be eligible for equity grants and other forms of compensation. Eligible employees also receive a competitive benefits package, including unlimited PTO.

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