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Optoelectronic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple

OLED Device Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

Apple is looking for a creative, hands-on, self motivated Engineer who will play a critical role in ... Solid understanding of organic optoelectronic device physics, optics as well as electronics ...

Vishay

Sr. Innovation Engineer

San Jose, CA

$122K - $168K/yr

Innovation Engineer - Market Development (Optoelectronics) About the Role We are seeking a highly motivated Innovation Engineer - Market Development to drive application-driven growth for our ...

OSI Systems, Inc

Applications Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$33.65 - $37.50/hr

OSI Optoelectronics is seeking an Applications Engineer. This individual will partner with end customers and internal stakeholders to define product requirements, develop proposal drawings ...

Quest Global

Reliability Equipment Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Job Title - Reliability Equipment Engineer, Fremont, CA Role Description We are seeking a ... Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot reliability stations, chambers, and optoelectronic testers ...

Posted today

Apple

OLED Device Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$184K - $324K/yr

Apple is looking for a creative, hands-on, self motivated Engineer who will play a critical role in ... Expertise in the electrical and optical design and validation of optoelectronic devices with a ...

LLNL

Senior Semiconductor Laser Device Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

You will have an advanced understanding of semiconductor optoelectronics, micro-optics, and thermal ... This position is in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division of the Engineering ...

OSI Systems, Inc

Test Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$35 - $38/hr

OSI Optoelectronics is seeking a Test Engineer to join the team. This individual will be responsible for developing and implementing wafer probe and final test solutions for bipolar transistor ...

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All JobsOptoelectronic Engineer JobsOptoelectronic Engineer Jobs in California

Optoelectronic Engineer information

See California salary details

$58.7K

$89.3K

$151.5K

How much do optoelectronic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for optoelectronic engineer in California is $89,326.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,600.00 and $103,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optoelectronic Engineer vs Electronics Engineer?

AspectOptoelectronic EngineerElectronics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related; specialization in optoelectronicsBachelor's or higher in Electrical or Electronics Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, telecommunications, optoelectronic device developmentConsumer electronics, embedded systems, circuit design, general electronics
Industry UsageOptoelectronic components, fiber optics, laser systemsConsumer electronics, industrial automation, communication devices

Optoelectronic Engineers focus on designing and developing devices that involve light and electronics, such as lasers and fiber optics. Electronics Engineers have a broader scope, working on various electronic systems and circuits. While both roles require a strong foundation in electrical engineering, optoelectronic engineers specialize in light-based technologies, making their work more specific to optoelectronic applications.

What are some common challenges faced by optoelectronic engineers in product development projects?

Optoelectronic engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating optical and electronic components within tight space and performance constraints. Achieving precise alignment, minimizing signal loss, and managing thermal effects are frequent technical hurdles. Additionally, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing specialists—is essential to ensure successful prototyping and product scalability. Staying current with rapid advancements in photonics technology can also be demanding but is vital for innovation and career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optoelectronic Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as an Optoelectronic Engineer, a strong background in physics, optics, electronics, and a relevant engineering degree (such as electrical or optical engineering) is essential. Familiarity with simulation software (like Zemax or COMSOL), photonics design tools, and relevant industry certifications can greatly enhance technical proficiency. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative optoelectronic systems and ensuring their reliable integration into advanced technologies.

What are optoelectronic engineers?

Optoelectronic engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test devices and systems that use both light (optical) and electronics technologies. Their work often involves components like lasers, LEDs, photodetectors, and fiber optics, which are used in applications ranging from telecommunications to medical devices. These engineers combine knowledge of physics, optics, and electrical engineering to create and improve products such as high-speed internet systems, imaging devices, and advanced sensors. They may work in research, product development, manufacturing, or quality assurance roles across various industries.
What are popular job titles related to Optoelectronic Engineer jobs in California? For Optoelectronic Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optoelectronic Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Optoelectronic Engineer jobs in California are:
Optoelectronic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optoelectronic Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,326 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Principal Optoelectronic Packaging Engineer

Samtec, Inc

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$220K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Samtec rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 156 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Founded in 1976, Samtec is a privately held, $1 billion global manufacturer of broad line electronic interconnect solutions, including High-Speed Board-to-Board, High-Speed Cables, Mid-Board and Panel Optics, Precision RF, Flexible Stacking, and Micro/Rugged components and cables. Samtec Technology Centers are dedicated to developing and advancing technologies, strategies and products to optimize both the performance and cost of a system from the bare die to an interface 100 meters away, and all interconnect points in between. With 40+ international locations and products sold in more than 125 different countries, Samtec’s global presence enables its unmatched customer service. 
 
Samtec is seeking an Advanced packaging and process architect to join our team at the Vista Design Center located in Vista, CA. 
 
The advanced packaging and process architect is a senior engineering leader responsible for designing, developing, and implementing next-generation optoelectronic packaging solutions. In this key role as a subject matter expert in the development of 2.5D/3D packaging solutions, you'll be instrumental in harnessing leading-edge technologies to create Samtec’s next generation optical module products. 
 
Essential Functions/ Responsibilities: 
  • Research & Innovation: Research and analyze emerging material and process technologies within a roadmap connecting capabilities and products.
  • Architecture Development: Guide the physical architecture of advanced optoelectronic packages based on a broad knowledge of interconnect technologies (RDL, wire bonding, flip chip, solder, conductive adhesives, etc.) materials (semiconductors, glass, laminates, ceramics, polymers, adhesives, etc.), and automated assembly techniques (SMT, wire bonding, die attach, curing, thermal bonding, spot curing, solder reflow, epoxy dispense, etc.)
  • Process Development: Lead the development and integration of assembly processes in R&D, prototyping, and volume production environments. Apply Six Sigma methodologies (DMADV) and FMEA to design and document new processes. Ensure optical module reliability by conducting necessary testing to meet commercial and military standards.
  • Process Transfer: Interface with internal and external operations teams, collaborating closely with production teams on equipment and process improvements. Transfer scalable processes to  manufacturing operations, both domestic and international.
  • Mentorship: Mentor process development engineers on DOE (Design of Experiments) techniques, failure analysis, and operation of automated and mechanized equipment to support package builds for low, medium, and high-volume production.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with marketing, process engineering, and R&D teams to align goals and realize outcomes.
 
The responsibilities, as defined, are intended to serve as a general guideline for this position. Associates may be asked to perform additional tasks depending on strengths and capabilities. 
  
Required Experience: 
  • Experience: 
    • 15-25 years of experience building optoelectronic packages in a manufacturing environment.
    • 10+ years conducting research on new materials and processes.
    • 10+ years developing processes on automated and semi-automated equipment.
    • Direct experience working in a manufacturing environment, including familiarity with cleanroom protocols and equipment.
  • Technical Expertise: 
    • Extensive knowledge of materials, interconnect technologies, equipment, and process development for optoelectronic module assembly.
    • Deep understanding of automated and mechanized equipment used semiconductor packaging and assembly.
    • Familiarity with 3D printing using polymers for various applications.
    • Solid understanding of optical module reliability and testing protocols.
  • Soft Skills: 
    • Strong communication skills: Excellent written, verbal, and presentation abilities.
    • Independent problem-solver with the ability to work within a multi-disciplinary engineering environment.
    • Highly organized with the capacity to manage multiple priorities effectively.
    • Proficient in Microsoft products with the ability to adapt to new software.
Education: 
    • BS or MS in Electrical, Materials, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent degree.
 
Salary and benefit offerings:
The preferred location for this position is the Samtec Vista Design Center in San Diego/Vista, CA. At this site, the salary range is $187,000 – $212,000 annually, based on experience, plus generous Samtec bonuses paid three times per year (February, August, and late fall).
A secondary option is the Silicon Valley Design Center in Santa Clara, CA, where the salary range is $220,000 – $250,000 annually, based on experience, plus the same bonus structure.
The third location is the Samtec Microelectronics facility in Colorado Springs, CO, with a salary range of $159,000 – $180,000 annually, based on experience, plus bonuses as noted above.
Relocation assistance is available only for moves to the preferred location (San Diego/Vista, CA).
Samtec's generous benefits package includes medical (HSA/PPO) dental, vision, hearing, group life, AD&D, short- and long-term disability, EAP, 401K match / profit sharing (Samtec will contribute 7% of your total gross pay to your 401(k) plan regardless of any contributions you make and will match the first 5% of your contribution to the 401(k)-plan dollar for dollar), plus other voluntary options, as well as paid time off.
 
Apply now if you have what it takes and are interested in joining Samtec’s vaunted culture, with competitive salaries and world-class benefits.
 
 

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About SAMTEC

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New Albany, IN, US

Year founded

1976

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