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Optical Scientist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Marvell

Optical Communications DSP Architecture

Irvine, CA

$16 - $19.50/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or related fields and 10-15 years of ... Additional background in optical systems, optical components and silicon photonic integration ...

TAE

Sr Scientist - Neutral Beams

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

Do Epic Science TAE is the world's first private fusion energy company, founded in 1998 to ... Develop/study/optimize ion beam optics * Development of the new NB for the future plasma machine ...

MARSHALL B KETCHUM UNIVERSITY

Optician

Anaheim, CA

$20 - $26/hr

Reporting to the Director of Optical Services at Ketchum Health. The Optician will assume the lead ... Science Program (DMSc) . MBKU owns and operates three health care centers at their clinical ...

Luna Innovations

Mechanical Engineer

Chino, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

You'll work across the full product development lifecycle--from early concept and SolidWorks modeling through prototyping, test fixture design, and release to production--alongside optical scientists ...

TAE

Scientist - Plasma Diagnostics

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

Do Epic Science TAE is the world's first private fusion energy company, founded in 1998 to ... optical arrays - to measure local edge density, temperature, heat flux, and more. You will also run ...

Jj

Staff Clinical Research Scientist

Irvine, CA · On-site

Strong background in ophthalmology, optometry, vision science & optics * Strong writing ability * Basic knowledge of statistics * Proficient with computers and software, especially MS Word, Excel ...

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All JobsOptical Scientist JobsOptical Scientist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Optical Scientist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$22

$58

How much do optical scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical scientist in Riverside, CA is $22.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Optical Scientist?

Optical Scientists typically spend their days designing and testing optical systems, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and developing new prototypes or refining existing technologies. They often work closely with engineers, researchers, and product development teams to translate theoretical models into practical solutions for industries such as telecommunications, medical devices, or imaging systems. Additionally, they may prepare technical reports, contribute to research publications, and present findings to stakeholders. This mix of hands-on lab work, collaborative team meetings, and independent research creates a dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment.

What does an optical scientist do?

An optical scientist researches and develops technologies related to light and optics, including lasers, imaging systems, and optical materials. They often work with specialized tools like spectrometers and optical microscopes, and may require knowledge of physics, engineering, and computer modeling. Their work supports industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense.

What does an Optical Scientist do?

An Optical Scientist researches and develops technologies related to the behavior and manipulation of light. They work in fields like telecommunications, healthcare, defense, and manufacturing, applying principles of optics, physics, and engineering to solve complex problems. Their work often involves designing optical systems, developing new imaging techniques, or enhancing laser technologies. Optical Scientists may also collaborate with engineers and researchers to create cutting-edge optical devices for practical applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Optical Scientist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Scientist, you need a strong background in physics, optics, or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree such as a Master's or Ph.D. Expertise with laser systems, optical simulation software (like Zemax or Code V), and laboratory instrumentation is commonly required in this role. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and collaborative skills help Optical Scientists excel in multidisciplinary research and development teams. These abilities are vital for advancing innovative optical technologies, solving complex problems, and driving successful project outcomes.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, highly specialized roles such as senior optical scientists, executive-level engineers, and certain medical professionals can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and expertise in areas like optics, photonics, or related fields, and may involve leadership or research responsibilities.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, petroleum, or aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes professional certifications or advanced degrees.

What jobs make 10,000 a month without a degree?

Optical scientists typically require advanced degrees and specialized training, making it unlikely to earn $10,000 a month without a degree. However, some high-paying roles in sales, entrepreneurship, or skilled trades can reach that income level through experience, certifications, or business ownership, but these are not specific to optical science. Most well-paying jobs in this field depend on formal education and technical expertise.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA? For Optical Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Optical Scientist jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Optical Scientist job openings:
Optical Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Scientist job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,312 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Lead Scientist - Applied Laser Physics

TAE

Foothill Ranch, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

TAE Technologies is a leader in commercial fusion energy, founded in 1998 with a mission to deliver clean, sustainable energy to the world. Using our proprietary Field Reversed Configuration (FRC) technology, we are advancing toward the commercialization of aneutronic hydrogen-boron fusion. As we transition from the Norm to the Da Vinci commercial prototype, we seek dedicated professionals to support our critical experimental operations
The Lead Scientist of Applied Laser Physics is responsible for managing laser-based diagnostic systems and the interpretation of resulting data to extract key plasma parameters such as density, temperature, and magnetic field. This includes Thomson scattering, Faraday rotation, interferometry, polarimetry, and other coherent or incoherent laser and microwave techniques. The Lead Scientist ensures the precision and reliability of laser diagnostics while leading the group's contributions to experimental campaigns and advancing system capabilities.
About the Job
  • Manage the design, operation, and data interpretation of laser-based diagnostics.
  • Supervise a team of physicists and engineers focused on precision optics and laser-plasma interaction.
  • Lead the implementation of advanced measurement techniques and upgrades to existing systems.
  • Drive interpretation efforts linking optical signals to fundamental plasma quantities.
  • Maintain laser safety protocols and operational reliability across campaigns.
  • Participate in experimental planning and contribute insights to broader physics interpretation efforts.
  • Ensure data integrity, calibration procedures, and documentation are maintained to high standards.
  • Guide the group in experiment development and execution, data analysis, and results communication.
  • Mentor staff and drive a culture of precision, rigor, and cross-functional collaboration.
  • Conduct individual research and participate in or lead projects on a matrix basis as needed.
  • Participate in outward facing activities like representing TAE and recruiting new talent.
  • Demonstrate and promote the TAE Core Values, Rules of the Road, and our Culture of Safety.

About You
  • 6-8 years of experience with optical diagnostics or laser systems in a plasma, accelerator, or similar environment.
  • Deep understanding of interferometry, Thomson scattering, reflectometry or related laser techniques.
  • Strong leadership and mentoring skills in a technical setting. Leading a team of scientist and researchers.
  • Ability to translate complex optical signals into actionable physics insights.

Education
  • Required: PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, or Optical Engineering
  • Preferred: Specialization in laser diagnostics or plasma optics

At TAE Technologies, we consider a wide range of factors when making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and job-related knowledge, training; licenses and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements depending on the position offered . $140,000 - $170,000
#LI-Onsite
About Us
Imagination, skill, and will
We are a diverse team of over 500 engineers, scientists, professionals, Maxwell Prize winners, and big thinkers from more than 40 countries with a track record of delivering on the innovative ways science can lead humanity into a brighter era. We are not afraid to envision a future where fusion and science can transform our world.
What you'll get with us
  • Generous benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401 (K) with company match, paid vacation + sick time, companywide December holiday, wellness program, parental leave
  • Payment rewards: For referring talent, novel research, and patents
  • A collaborative environment: An organization where talents and interests can plug in to different groups throughout the organization
  • Potential for equity participation
  • HQ in Southern California
  • Employee events on and off-site
  • A commitment to upholding and growing an inclusive organization

Learn more
tae.com
Our podcast Good Clean Energy
Instagram
LinkedIn
TAE Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.
We ensure all individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us recruiting@tae.com to request accommodations or request more information.
Note to Agencies: TAE prefers to hire directly and maintains an existing preferred supplier list. We do not accept speculative CVs or referrals from agencies. If speculative CVs are sent, no fee will be applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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