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Photographic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple

UI Software Engineer, Camera & Photos

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$128K - $171K/yr

Apple's Photos Edit team is looking for a talented, enthusiastic UI software engineer to join an expanding team focused on the next generation of image- and video-editing features in the Photos ...

Apple

UI Software Engineer, Camera & Photos

Cupertino, CA

$150K - $277K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Apple's Photos Edit team is looking for a talented, enthusiastic UI software engineer to join an expanding team focused on the next generation of image- and video-editing features in the Photos ...

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All JobsPhotographic Engineer JobsPhotographic Engineer Jobs in California

Photographic Engineer information

See California salary details

$38.4K

$120.9K

$198.1K

How much do photographic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for photographic engineer in California is $120,861.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $157,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a photographic engineer do?

A Photographic Engineer specializes in the technical aspects of photography, including the design, development, and testing of photographic equipment, materials, and processes. They work with cameras, lenses, sensors, and digital imaging technologies to improve image quality and efficiency. Photographic Engineers may also be involved in research and development for new imaging devices or systems used in industries like medical imaging, aerospace, and consumer electronics. They bridge the gap between photography and engineering, ensuring that imaging technologies meet both creative and technical standards.

What are some common challenges faced by photographic engineers in balancing creativity with technical requirements?

Photographic Engineers often encounter the challenge of merging artistic vision with strict technical specifications, especially when developing imaging systems or working with multidisciplinary teams. They must ensure images meet quality standards for resolution, color accuracy, and lighting, while also considering the creative intent of photographers or clients. Navigating evolving technology and troubleshooting equipment issues are regular aspects of the job, requiring adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. Successful Photographic Engineers collaborate closely with designers, photographers, and software developers to deliver innovative imaging solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a photographic engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Photographic Engineer, you need a strong understanding of optics, imaging science, and electronics, typically supported by a degree in engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, image processing tools, and laboratory equipment is common, and certifications like Certified Photographic Consultant can be advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective collaboration are vital soft skills for innovation and project success. These competencies ensure the development of high-quality imaging systems and efficient resolution of technical challenges in the rapidly advancing field of photographic technology.

What is the difference between Photographic Engineer vs Camera Systems Engineer?

AspectPhotographic EngineerCamera Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optics, imaging, or related fields; experience with camera hardware and image processingBachelor's or higher in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related fields; focus on camera hardware and software integration
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, or R&D departments in imaging and photography companiesElectronics and tech companies, often in product development or R&D teams for camera systems
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies developing photographic equipment, imaging devices, or optical systemsCommon in companies designing integrated camera hardware and software for consumer or professional devices

While both roles involve camera technology and imaging, Photographic Engineers focus more on image quality, optics, and photographic processes, whereas Camera Systems Engineers emphasize hardware-software integration and system design. Both roles require strong technical skills and often overlap in industries like consumer electronics and professional imaging.

How to become a photographic engineer?

To become a photographic engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in optical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with camera systems, image processing, and relevant tools like CAD software or optical design programs is important, along with developing strong problem-solving and technical skills. Certifications in optical or imaging technology can also enhance job prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Photographic Engineer jobs in California?

For Photographic Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Photographic Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Photographic Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Photographic Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Photographic Engineer job openings:

Photographic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photographic Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,861 per year, or $58.1 per hour.

Director, Automation & Tools - Camera & Photos

Apple

Cupertino, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 677 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great work. Every new product we build, service we create, or Apple Store experience we deliver is the result of us making each other's ideas stronger. That happens because every one of us shares a belief that we can make something wonderful and share it with the world, changing lives for the better. It's the diversity of our people and their thinking that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do. When we bring everybody in, we can do the best work of our lives. Here, you'll do more than join something - you'll add something.
The Camera & Photos SWE team is responsible for delivering the world-class imaging experiences that power iPhone, iPad, and Mac. We are seeking a Senior Manager to lead our Automation & Tools organization, driving the next generation of engineering productivity, quality, and scale. This role will focus on evolving our automation ecosystem through a combination of robust engineering systems and emerging agentic AI capabilities.
You will lead a team at the intersection of software engineering, quality, automation, and AI-building tools and workflows that fundamentally change how imaging software is developed, tested, and delivered.
Description
In this role, you will define and execute the vision for automation and tooling across Camera & Photos engineering. Your team will be responsible for building systems that enable engineers and QA to move faster, catch issues earlier, and ship with confidence.
This is a highly cross-functional role where you will influence how world-class imaging features are built-from early development through release.
You will:
Minimum Qualifications
10+ years of experience in software engineering, automation, or developer productivity tooling
8+ years of engineering leadership experience, including 3+ years managing managers and senior managers as a Director
Strong background in test automation, CI/CD systems, or large-scale developer infrastructure
Track record of improving engineering velocity and product quality at scale
Deep understanding of software development lifecycles in complex, cross-functional environments
Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence senior technical and product leaders
Excitement around learning and integration new AI agentic tooling and workflows
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field, or equivalent experience. Advanced degree is a plus.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with imaging systems, camera pipelines, or media processing workflows
Experience building or integrating AI/ML systems into engineering workflows (LLMs, agents, or similar)
Familiarity with simulation, synthetic data generation, or hardware-in-the-loop testing
Experience building internal developer platforms or large-scale automation frameworks
Hands-on experience with modern AI systems, including LLM-based agents and workflow orchestration
Passion for redefining how software engineering is done using AI and automation

What Apple employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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