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Optical Manufacturing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Atln

Principal Process Development Engineer

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$100.65 - $178.20/hr

We are a center of excellence for advanced optics and optical systems. We're shaping the future of aerospace and defense through precision engineering and cutting-edge manufacturing processes. If you ...

Attalon, Inc.

Optician I - HSPP (3rd Shift)

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$16.07 - $27.48/hr

Attalon's Murrieta site specializes in advanced optical manufacturing for critical aerospace and defense programs. Our team produces high-performance optical components and coatings that enable ...

Attalon, Inc.

Optician I - HSPP (2nd Shift)

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$16.07 - $27.48/hr

Attalon's Murrieta site specializes in advanced optical manufacturing for critical aerospace and defense programs. Our team produces high-performance optical components and coatings that enable ...

Attalon, Inc.

Optician I - HSPP (3rd Shift)

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$16.07 - $27.48/hr

Attalon's Murrieta site specializes in advanced optical manufacturing for critical aerospace and defense programs. Our team produces high-performance optical components and coatings that enable ...

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How much do optical manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical manufacturing in California is $25.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical manufacturing job?

An Optical Manufacturing job involves producing precision optical components such as lenses, mirrors, and prisms for industries like aerospace, medical devices, and telecommunications. Workers in this field use specialized equipment to cut, grind, polish, and coat optical materials to meet exact specifications. They may also inspect finished products for quality and ensure they meet industry standards. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and knowledge of optical fabrication processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in optical manufacturing?

To thrive in Optical Manufacturing, you need strong technical aptitude in precision measurement, mechanical assembly, and quality control, often supported by a background in optics, engineering, or manufacturing technology. Familiarity with tools like spectrometers, interferometers, CNC machines, and cleanroom procedures is crucial, and certifications such as IPC or ASQ may be beneficial. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective problem-solving are standout soft skills in this field. These abilities ensure the accuracy and quality of optical products, which are vital for applications in industries like healthcare, defense, and telecommunications.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities in optical manufacturing?

In Optical Manufacturing, entry-level roles often serve as stepping stones to more specialized positions, such as process technician, quality assurance specialist, or optical engineer. With additional experience and training, employees can advance into supervisory or management roles, or become experts in areas like process optimization or product development. Many companies encourage continuous learning, offering in-house training and support for professional certifications. Career growth may also include transitioning into related fields, such as research and development or technical sales, leveraging your manufacturing expertise.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Optical Manufacturing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Optical Manufacturing job openings:

Optical Manufacturing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Manufacturing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,998 per year, or $25 per hour.

Principal Process Development Engineer

Attalon, Inc.

Murrieta, CA • On-site

$100K - $178K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Attalon / Location Overview

Join Attalon’s Aerospace & Defense team in Murrieta, CA. We are a center of excellence for advanced optics and optical systems. We’re shaping the future of aerospace and defense through precision engineering and cutting-edge manufacturing processes. If you’re passionate about innovation and want to lead the development of world-class optical technologies, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Job Details
The Process Development Engineer is responsible for providing operational engineering support across optical fabrication, optical metrology, and optical assembly areas. Contributes to process development activities including process improvement, troubleshooting, cycle-time reduction, process stability, and yield improvement. Supports project execution, technician development, and collaboration across engineering and production groups.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • Define, optimize, and stabilize optical fabrication processes while collaborating closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Program Management, and cross-functional engineering teams.
  • Serve as subject matter expert for one or more optical manufacturing areas: optical metrology, opto-mechanical assembly, conventional optical fabrication, and single-point diamond turning.
  • Execute engineering experiments, DOEs, and capability studies. Implement process improvements related to throughput, quality, and cost,
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on yield and cycle-time reduction.
  • Lead root-cause analysis and corrective actions involving defects and process variability.
  • Participate and lead prototype builds and process qualifications for new programs.
  • Investigate new equipment and fabrication technologies that can increase capability or reduce cost.
  • Lead NPI activities from early concept and feasibility through protype builds, process qualification, and full production release.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, material science, or related field.
  • Minimum 9 years of related experience in optical manufacturing
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and experimental design skills.
  • Candidates must have manufacturing and production experience in a closely related precision manufacturing field.
  • Direct experience in one or more of the following is preferred but not required:
    • Single-point diamond turning
    • Conventional optics fabrication
    • Optical metrology (profilometry, interferometry)
    • Opto-mechanical assembly
    • Demonstrated capability to lead complex engineering issues through the entire lifecycle, ensuring thorough analysis and effective resolution.

For California, the salary range for this position is $100,650-$178,200
Please note this range is provided as a general guideline. When determining an offer, Attalon takes into account multiple factors, including (but not limited to) the responsibilities of the position, your professional experience, education and training, specialized skills, and current market and business 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.