ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Scientist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Luna Innovations

Senior Hardware Engineer

Chino, CA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Our Optics/Polarization product line, based out of Chino, CA, specializes in industry-leading ... scientific instruments, test equipment, or optoelectronics. * Analog Design Mastery: Deep ...

Alcon

Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

... Science, Precision Machining, Imaging, Illumination, Microscope and Optical Systems Design. * Performing Opto-mechanical design including lens barrel and lens housing design, lens bonding and ...

TAE

Experimental Plasma Physicist

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Do Epic Science TAE is the world's first private fusion energy company, founded in 1998 to ... Collaborate with engineering teams to design, implement, and maintain detector systems, optical ...

Woolpert

Hydrographic Survey Specialist

Irvine, CA

GNSS & Optical Horizontal & Vertical Control Surveys * Candidates with small vessel and coastal ... Bachelor's degree in surveying, Geomatics, environmental science, ocean engineering, geology ...

TAE

Neutral Beam R&D Engineer

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

Do Epic Science TAE is the world's first private fusion energy company, founded in 1998 to ... optical diagnostics, etc.) About You * Direct experience with neutral beam injection systems and/or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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.

Senior Process Development Engineer

Attalon, Inc.

Murrieta, CA • On-site

$80K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 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 5 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 $80,630-$137,808
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.