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Optical Engineer Jobs in Pasadena, CA (NOW HIRING)

JPL

Optical Engineer III

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Future Ventures

Optical Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$135 - $170/hr

OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARFALL) SpaceX optical systems require a powerful blend of theoretical expertise, hands‑on implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex problems in real‑time ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA

$120K - $170K/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 ...

Latent AI

Optical Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$100 - $135/hr

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 ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$135K - $170K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARFALL) SpaceX optical systems require a powerful blend of theoretical expertise, hands-on implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex problems in real-time, resource ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA

$135K - $170K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARFALL) SpaceX optical systems require a powerful blend of theoretical expertise, hands-on implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex problems in real-time, resource ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$135K - $170K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARFALL) SpaceX optical systems require a powerful blend of theoretical expertise, hands-on implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex problems in real-time, resource ...

Inversion

Staff Optical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$161K - $221K/yr

As a Staff Optical Engineer at Inversion, you will own major elements of the optical systems that enable our vehicles to sense, navigate, and perform in extreme environments. You will lead the ...

Luminit

Optical Engineer, Holography Lab

Torrance, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Working under senior optical engineers, this person runs day-to-day recording, optical-table alignment, sample preparation, and characterization within Luminit's established recording process. We are ...

SpaceX

Principal Optical Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA

$131K - $169K/yr

PRINCIPAL OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARFALL) SpaceX optical systems require a powerful blend of theoretical expertise, hands-on implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex problems in real-time ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Pasadena, CA

Optical Engineer information

See Pasadena, CA salary details

$90.5K

$156.7K

$183.8K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Pasadena, CA is $156,651.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $140,700.00 and $182,200.00 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 Pasadena, CA?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA are:

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

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The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA are:

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Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Pasadena, CA 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 $156,651 per year, or $75.3 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Horizon Surgical Systems, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

Full-time

Vision, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Open Position - Optical Engineer
Horizon Surgical Systems Inc.
Horizon Surgical Systems Inc. is revolutionizing the world of surgical ophthalmology by developing a novel, AI driven, and imaging-guided surgical robotic system. Horizon Surgical Systems Inc. aims to expand access to care, provide superior capabilities to the human surgeon, and enhance patient outcomes. Microsurgery in general and Ophthalmology are subfields of surgery for which the surgical outcomes can be significantly improved by robotic systems to allow superior dexterity, precision, accuracy, and visualization beyond the human surgeon's own capabilities.
We are seeking highly motivated, and intellectually inquisitive individuals looking to make a positive impact on healthcare via the development of robotic technology. The core values of Horizon Surgical Systems Inc. are:
  • Commitment to Excellence: We aim to deliver superior patient outcomes and surgeon experiences
  • Passion for Creativity and Innovation: We are driven by new ideas and aim to push the boundaries of what's possible
  • Teamwork and Camaraderie: We achieve our best when we collaborate and work together
  • Welcoming of Critical Opinion: We are enriched by constructive criticism and support the best ideas
  • Personal Accountability: We honor our commitments and take responsibility for our actions

Horizon Surgical Systems Inc. offers:
  • An opportunity to build autonomous surgical robotic systems driven by image guidance and AI technology for the future of affordable, high-quality healthcare.
  • The opportunity to work alongside clinicians, engineers, and global leaders in cutting-edge AI, imaging, and robotics technology.
  • Competitive compensation and an excellent company-paid benefits package.

Role:
As an optical engineer at Horizon Surgical Systems, your work will contribute to the design and development of an automated robotic platform for ophthalmological surgery. In this role, you will assemble, test, calibrate, and maintain multimodal digital surgical microscopes, comprising multiple incoherent illumination and digital microscopy channels as well as an integrated Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) system.
Responsibilities:
  • Precision optical system assembly, alignment, calibration, and repair
  • Optical measurement and test, including resolution, field of view, radiometric, etc.
  • Design and fabrication of optical test fixtures
  • Participation in design reviews of optical, mechanical and electrical systems
  • Optical fiber handling and termination
  • Electrical and mechanical benchtop work under the guidance of senior engineers
  • Authoring, maintaining, and following build instructions and SOPs
  • Creating, updating, maintaining, and providing feedback on electronic log books, assembly instructions, inventory logs, device travelers, mechanical drawings, wiring diagrams, status reports, and other documentation
  • Verification and validation testing
  • Working cross-functionally with other teams to support system integration

Required Qualifications and Abilities:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Optical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or related discipline
  • 0-3 years professional experience in engineering or a related field
  • Experience working with precision optical systems
  • Experience with electronics assembly and/or repair
  • Experience reviewing mechanical designs in CAD software
  • Strong communication and organizational skills

Desired Qualifications and Abilities:
  • Experience in medical, aerospace, or other highly regulated industry
  • Familiarity with optical design software
  • Familiarity with Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
  • Experience with 3D printing (SLA and FDM)

This is an exciting opportunity to join a high-tech startup that is poised to revolutionize surgical robotics in ophthalmology.
The base salary range for this role is $85,000-$115,000, in addition to a performance-based annual bonus, equity (stock options), a comprehensive benefits package, and a generous PTO policy.

Apply