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Optoelectronic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Samtec, Inc

Advanced Packaging Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$220K - $250K/yr

Define and develop next‑generation optical and optoelectronic packaging architectures. * Lead ... Mentor engineers on advanced technology concepts. Required Education * BS in Electrical Engineering ...

Amazon

Sr. Display Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$122K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Display engineer you will design, characterize, and validate the optical and electrical ... Essential skills include expertise in OLED device physics, optoelectronics, materials, and strong ...

Amazon

Sr. Display Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Display engineer you will design, characterize, and validate the optical and electrical ... Essential skills include expertise in OLED device physics, optoelectronics, materials, and strong ...

Actalent

Senior Process Engineer

Carlsbad, CA

$106K - $138K/yr

Job Title: Senior Process Engineer This Senior Process Engineer role focuses on developing ... Develop, refine, and optimize manufacturing processes used in the assembly of optoelectronic and ...

Samtec, Inc

Advanced Packaging Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$220K - $250K/yr

Define and develop next‑generation optical and optoelectronic packaging architectures. * Lead ... Mentor engineers on advanced technology concepts. Required Education * BS in Electrical Engineering ...

Amazon

Sr. Display Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Display engineer you will design, characterize, and validate the optical and electrical ... Use and expand on optoelectronic models and simulation tools and contribute to the development and ...

Actalent

Senior Process Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$106K - $138K/yr

Job Title: Senior Process Engineer This Senior Process Engineer role focuses on developing ... Develop, refine, and optimize manufacturing processes used in the assembly of optoelectronic and ...

samtec

Advanced Packaging Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$220K - $250K/yr

Define and develop next-generation optical and optoelectronic packaging architectures. * Lead ... Mentor engineers on advanced technology concepts. Required Education * BS in Electrical Engineering ...

OSI Systems, Inc

Sr. Quality Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

OSI Optoelectronics is seeking a Sr. Quality Engineer. This individual will be responsible for executing the defined strategic quality plan in conjunction with Quality functional leadership. They ...

Apple

Emerging Display Technologist

Cupertino, CA · On-site

Experience in the design, fabrication, and characterization of optoelectronic materials and devices. Robust engineering skills including use of: software such as Matlab, Python, JMP, Excel or similar ...

Apple Inc.

OLED Device Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$184.70 - $324.80/hr

Solid understanding of organic optoelectronic device physics, optics as well as electronics ... PhD in (Applied) Physics, Electrical Engineering, Material Science or similar and a minimum of 3 ...

Apple

Emerging Display Technologist

Cupertino, CA · On-site

Experience in the design, fabrication, and characterization of optoelectronic materials and devices. Robust engineering skills including use of: software such as Matlab, Python, JMP, Excel or similar ...

Nokia

High-speed RF Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

We are seeking a talented RF Engineer to join our dynamic team at Sunnyvale, CA. In this role, you ... Your experience with high-speed equipment will be highly valuable as we test optoelectronic devices ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 3, 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 an optoelectronic engineer?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optoelectronic engineer?

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 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,326 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Advanced Packaging Engineer

Samtec, Inc

Santa Clara, CA

$220K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Samtec rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 161 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. 
 

Position Summary

The Advanced Packaging Engineer is a senior individual contributor responsible for conceiving, architecting, and maturing next‑generation optical and optoelectronic technologies. This role focuses on future‑state capability creation, advanced materials and packaging architectures, and long‑term technology differentiation. The position operates upstream of production and is not responsible for sustaining engineering or day‑to‑day manufacturing support.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Advanced Technology & Architecture Development

  • Define and develop next‑generation optical and optoelectronic packaging architectures.
  • Lead architectural trade studies considering optical performance, materials behavior, and future scalability.
  • Establish technology concepts that enable future product families and platforms.

Research & Early‑Stage Development

  • Research emerging materials, processes, and assembly technologies aligned with long‑term company roadmaps.
  • Lead feasibility studies, proof‑of‑concept efforts, and early‑stage demonstrations.
  • Evaluate technology readiness levels and define pathways for maturation.

Characterization & Reliability Strategy

  • Define characterization and reliability evaluation methodologies for early‑stage technologies.
  • Analyze optical, mechanical, and thermal data to inform design decisions.
  • Identify technical risks and failure mechanisms early in development.

Technology Strategy & Roadmapping

  • Contribute to long‑term optics and optoelectronics technology roadmaps.
  • Identify capability gaps and propose strategic development initiatives.
  • Support senior leadership through technical reviews and risk assessments.

External Collaboration

  • Identify, evaluate, and partner with material suppliers, equipment vendors, and research institutions.
  • Lead joint development initiatives with external partners.
  • Influence external technology roadmaps to align with future needs.

Technical Leadership

  • Serve as a recognized technical authority for advanced optical technologies.
  • Contribute to intellectual property, publications, and technical knowledge growth.
  • Mentor engineers on advanced technology concepts.

Required Education

  • BS in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field required.
  • MS or Ph.D. preferred.

Required Experience

  • 15+ years of experience in optical, optoelectronic, or advanced microelectronics development.
  • Extensive background in materials, packaging architectures, and advanced process development.
  • Demonstrated experience creating and maturing new technologies from concept through early validation.
  • Proven record of technical leadership and independent problem solving.
 
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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