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Optical Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

LLNL

Senior Optical Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

We have an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to support the development of advanced optical instrumentation and payloads for space missions that contribute to U.S. national security and ...

LLNL

Senior Optical Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

We have an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to support the development of advanced optical instrumentation and payloads for space missions that contribute to U.S. national security and ...

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 Technologies

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 ...

Leidos

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

The Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking an Optical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in the development of advanced optical payload systems for next-generation space ...

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 ...

Socket.dev

Display Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Meta Reality Labs is seeking a Display Engineer to advance the optical design and display systems that power next-generation virtual and augmented reality headsets and wearable devices. In this role ...

Meta

Display Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$173K/yr

Display Optical Engineer Responsibilities: * Lead engineering activities on advanced VR/AR display as optical engineers for new display applications * Lead complex development projects by ...

JPL

Optical Engineer IV

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$140K - $181K/yr

The 364C Optical Engineering Group specializes in designing and developing optical systems for planetary probes and instruments, earth observing remote sensing systems, and in situ sensing systems ...

Apple

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$150K - $277K/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 ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$130K - $169K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use ...

The Aerospace Corporation

Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site +1

$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 ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$131K - $169K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use ...

Industrious Ventures

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

We are looking for an Optical Engineer to join our team of designers of cutting-edge components for space and national security applications, including Space Rated Cameras, Star Trackers, and Laser ...

Meta

Display Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$173K - $245K/yr

Meta Reality Labs is seeking a Display Engineer to advance the optical design and display systems that power next-generation virtual and augmented reality headsets and wearable devices. In this role ...

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 21-40

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 Sep 8, 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 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 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.

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

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 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.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to advancements in fields like telecommunications, medical devices, and defense technology. They often require strong skills in optics, laser systems, and CAD software, with employment opportunities growing as industries increasingly rely on optical technologies.

How much do optical engineers make?

Optical engineers in California typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and specific industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in optics design, laser systems, or photonics may offer higher salaries and additional benefits.
More about Optical Engineer jobs

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in California?

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

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in California look for?

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

What cities in California are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in CA?

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

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $141,730 per year, or $68.1 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Aeva, Inc.

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$132K - $179K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

About us:
Aeva's mission is to bring the next wave of perception to a broad range of applications from automated driving to industrial robotics, consumer electronics, consumer health, security, and beyond. Aeva is transforming autonomy with its groundbreaking sensing and perception technology that integrates all key LiDAR components onto a silicon photonics chip in a compact module. Aeva 4D LiDAR sensors uniquely detect instant velocity in addition to 3D position, allowing autonomous devices like vehicles and robots to make more intelligent and safe decisions. 
 
Role Overview:
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 optical sub-components and systems used within Aeva's LiDAR coherent sensing system.
What you'll be doing:
  • Design and analyze optical systems, including developing optical architectures , evaluating tolerances, manufacturability, light budgets and other trade-offs.
  • Perform sequential and non-sequential simulations of optical systems.
  • Direct specification development for detailed drawings of optical components
  • Generate and document new IP
What you have:
  • Bachelors or Masters in optical engineering, physics, or related field.
  • 3+ years experience maturing optical systems designs from proof of concept to production
  • Ability to model and script in ZEMAX, Code V, Fred, or similar
  • Experience in tolerance analysis, stray-light and scattering analysis
  • Experience with precision optical, micro-optic and/or fiber optic components
  • Hands-on laboratory skills in setting up, testing, validating, and troubleshooting optical, fiber optic and opto-mechanical subsystems
  • Knowledge of limitations and fabrication of optics (molded, polished, diamond turned) as well as micro structures
What's in it for you:
  • Be part of a fast paced and dynamic team
  • Very competitive compensation and meaningful stock grants
  • Exceptional benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, and more
  • Unlimited PTO: We care about results, not punching timecards
$132,000 - $179,200 a year
Salary pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, the successful candidate's starting base pay will be determined based on factors including job-related skills, experience, certifications, qualifications, relevant education or training, and market conditions. These ranges are subject to change in the future.
 
Depending on the position offered, equity, bonus, and other forms of compensation may be provided as part of a total compensation package, in addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, pre-tax commuter and health care/dependent care accounts, 401k plan, life and disability benefits, flexible time off, paid parental leave, and 11 paid holidays annually.
Aeva is an Equal Opportunity Employer including protected Veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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About AEVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Manufacturing and manufacturing

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Palo Alto, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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