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Optical Engineering Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an Optical Engineering intern to lead the optical validation of our automated mating system for optical connectors used for Silicon Photonic (SiPh) and Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) devices.

We are seeking an Optical Engineering intern to lead the optical validation of our automated mating system for optical connectors used for Silicon Photonic (SiPh) and Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) devices.

The engineer will work in a team of opto-mechanical design engineers and optical engineers responsible for core optics modules across different divisions within the corporation. The engineer owns the ...

Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

From technicians and engineers to first responders and service members, they embody the hard work ... C. 1324b(a)(3). Role: Optical Engineer Location: 2550 N First Street Suite 250, San Jose ...

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How much do optical engineering technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering technician in the United States is $51.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.57 and $83.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Optical Engineering Technicians?

Optical Engineering Technicians are professionals who assist engineers in the design, assembly, testing, and maintenance of optical systems and devices, such as lenses, lasers, microscopes, and fiber optics. They work with specialized equipment to build and calibrate optical instruments, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure product quality. Their work is essential in industries like telecommunications, medical imaging, manufacturing, and research laboratories.

What are some common challenges Optical Engineering Technicians face when working on prototype development?

Optical Engineering Technicians often encounter challenges such as precise alignment of optical components, maintaining cleanroom standards, and troubleshooting unexpected equipment issues during prototype development. Working closely with engineers and scientists, technicians must adapt quickly to design changes and document modifications accurately. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential, as small errors can significantly impact the performance of optical systems.

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

To thrive as an Optical Engineering Technician, you need a solid understanding of optics principles, precision measurement, and electronics, typically supported by an associate degree in optics, engineering technology, or a related field. Familiarity with optical alignment tools, metrology instruments, CAD software, and relevant safety certifications is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding technicians apart. These skills ensure precise assembly, testing, and maintenance of optical systems critical to quality and innovation in fields like telecommunications, manufacturing, and scientific research.

What is the difference between Optical Engineering Technician vs Optical Engineer?

AspectOptical Engineering TechnicianOptical Engineer
CredentialsAssociate's degree or technical certificationBachelor's or higher in optical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing facilities, testing sitesDesign offices, R&D labs, project planning
Job FocusAssisting with assembly, testing, and calibration of optical systemsDesigning, developing, and analyzing optical systems and components

Optical Engineering Technicians typically hold technical certifications and focus on supporting optical system assembly and testing. Optical Engineers usually have higher education degrees and are responsible for designing and developing optical systems. Both roles are essential in the optical industry, but they differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

More about Optical Engineering Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Engineering Technician jobs? Cities with the most Optical Engineering Technician job openings:
What states have the most Optical Engineering Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Engineering Technician jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineering Technician jobs? For Optical Engineering Technician jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Engineering Technician - NPI (E)

Optical Engineering Technician - NPI (E)

KLA Corporation

Milpitas, CA

$63K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

Company Overview

KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world's leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow's electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

Optical Engineering Technicians are core to KLA's technology, while we do not currently have an opening, we are always building our Optical Engineering talent community, we are interested in learning about your background.

Apply to this posting for Future Opportunities with KLA.

Optical Engineering Technician - NPI

Join the action! As a technician in the NPI (New Product Introduction) group, you will support our division's new product development process. This adventure starts with providing hands-on support during technology feasibility evaluations and continues through the release of new products into production and includes helping to resolve critical issues in manufacturing and the field. Along the way, you will partner with NPI and design engineers to build prototype assemblies and be responsible for providing critical feedback for product manufacturability, documentation completeness, and tooling functionality and ease-of-use. You will work closely with system-level technicians so that together you can build and qualify our next-generation product designs in preparation for transfer to production. Are you ready? Join us and experience an environment that supports teamwork, learning, and forward-thinking!


Key responsibilities:
  • Build, align, and test opto-mechanical and mechanical assemblies for design validation, prototype testing, and engineering experiments.
  • Repair assemblies that have failed on engineering systems or have been returned from the field.
  • Provide assembly design feedback to NPI/design engineers
  • Generate redlines to improve assembly/align/test procedures, which will sometimes be in draft form.
  • Help build and validate alignment or test fixtures.
  • Manage material inventory in the work area (cleanroom lab)
  • Perform lab audits for safety/regulatory compliance
  • May also install assemblies into the systems and perform system-level integration and calibration.

Skills and Proficiencies:
  • Must understand and follow class 100 cleanroom protocols
  • Capable of following existing processes and procedures while also being able to properly build assemblies with training using only notes or draft procedures.
  • Demonstrated ability to follow methodical troubleshooting and problem-solving techniques and make decisions based on data.
  • Able to communicate clearly and effectively.
  • Strong organizational skills for both your physical workspace as well as for your information (assembly data and task status).
  • Motivated self-starter who is fast-learning and capable of working independently.
  • Willingness to work extended hours, including weekends, during critical times.
  • Relevant work experience building opto-mechanical assemblies or systems.

Minimum Qualifications

Technical School or Work experience of 3 years.

Base Pay Range: $63,900.00 - $108,600.00Primary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLAKLA's total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave.

Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

KLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at talent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation.

Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees. KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA's Careers website for legitimate job postings. KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.