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Optical Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in California

Picarro, Inc

Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Optical Manufacturing Engineer Picarro is a leading provider of solutions for measuring greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations, trace gases, and stable isotopes across various scientific applications ...

Picarro, Inc

Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Optical Manufacturing Engineer Picarro is a leading provider of solutions for measuring greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations, trace gases, and stable isotopes across various scientific applications ...

Viavi Solutions

Manufacturing Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer supports VIAVI's optics manufacturing team in developing, maintaining, and evolving advanced manufacturing processes for thin-film-based optical coatings. This role focuses ...

Viavi Solutions

Manufacturing Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA

$79K - $102K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer supports VIAVI's optics manufacturing team in developing, maintaining, and evolving advanced manufacturing processes for thin-film-based optical coatings. This role focuses ...

Viavi Solutions

Manufacturing Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer supports VIAVI's optics manufacturing team in developing, maintaining, and evolving advanced manufacturing processes for thin-film-based optical coatings. This role focuses ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Manufacturing Engineer JobsOptical Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in California

Optical Manufacturing Engineer information

See California salary details

$81.9K

$141.7K

$166.3K

How much do optical manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical manufacturing 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical manufacturing engineer?

To thrive as an Optical Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in optical engineering principles, materials science, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, precision measurement tools, and quality management systems such as ISO 9001 is often required, along with certifications like Six Sigma being advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills will help you excel in collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the successful design, production, and quality control of complex optical components.

What does an optical manufacturing engineer do?

An Optical Manufacturing Engineer designs, develops, and improves the processes involved in manufacturing optical components and systems. They work with precision optics, lenses, mirrors, and other photonic materials to ensure quality and performance. Their responsibilities include process optimization, tooling design, testing, and troubleshooting production issues. They collaborate with design teams, technicians, and quality engineers to meet industry standards and efficiency goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Optical Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California? For Optical Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California are:
Optical Manufacturing Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Manufacturing Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,730 per year, or $68.1 per hour.

Senior Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Attalon, Inc.

San Pablo, CA • On-site

$91K - $156K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Attalon / Location Overview
Join Attalon, a global innovator in advanced optical technologies supporting aerospace, defense, and scientific research. Our Richmond facility is home to world‑class engineering talent and state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing capabilities. Here, you’ll help build optical systems that empower breakthrough missions and cutting‑edge discoveries.

Job Title
Senior Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Job Details
Attalon is seeking a highly skilled Senior Optical Manufacturing Engineer to drive the next generation of precision optical manufacturing. In this role, you will shape the processes behind mission‑critical lenses, mirrors, telescopes, and optical assemblies used in advanced aerospace and defense applications. You’ll lead the transition of innovative designs from concept to production, optimize performance on the factory floor, and play a central role in ensuring Attalon delivers unmatched quality and reliability.

If you’re energized by complex challenges, cross‑functional collaboration, and opportunities to influence manufacturing strategy, this is a role where you can make a significant impact.

Responsibilities
• Develop, optimize, and standardize manufacturing processes for optical components, assemblies, and telescope systems
• Lead manufacturability reviews, feasibility studies, and process validations for new optical designs
• Design and implement fixtures, tooling, and equipment to support precision optical fabrication and assembly
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and quality teams to transition new products into scalable production
• Apply SPC methods to improve yield, efficiency, and overall manufacturing performance
• Review customer requirements and provide design‑based solutions to meet application needs
• Mentor engineers and production staff while driving continuous improvement across processes and workflows
• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions
• Support development of inspection and testing protocols and stay current with emerging optical manufacturing technologies


Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in optical manufacturing
• Strong understanding of optical design principles and manufacturing processes
• Knowledge of fabrication techniques for spheres, aspheres, and diamond‑turned optics
• Hands‑on experience with optical metrology tools
• Experience with process optimization, statistical analysis, and quality methodologies
• Proven ability to lead engineering projects and cross‑functional teams

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with SolidWorks for tooling and fixture design
• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO 9001, or similar quality systems
• Experience with CUI, ITAR, or EAR‑controlled projects
• Strong communication, problem‑solving, and attention to detail
• Ability to support hands‑on prototype builds and production transfers
• Customer‑focused and accountable in delivering engineering solutions


For California, the base pay range for this role is $91,625.00-$156,600.00
This range is provided as a general guideline. When determining an offer, Attalon considers multiple factors, including job responsibilities, relevant experience, education and training, specialized skills, and current market conditions.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Attalon, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Export Control Compliance

This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license