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Entry Level Optical Laboratory information

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How much do entry level optical laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level optical laboratory in the United States is $24.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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Entry Level Optical Laboratory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Optical Laboratory job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,049 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Optics Technician I

Rochester, NY • On-site

QED TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL LLC
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about QED TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL LLCexternal

$22 - $25/hr

Other

Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Location: Rochester, New York

Department: QED Optics

Reports to: QED Optics Operations Manager

Work arrangement: On-site

Travel: None required

Work hours: First or second shift; occasional swing shift or weekend work may be required based on business needs.

Compensation: The target hiring range is generally $22.00–$25.00 per hour, depending on relevant experience, education, internal equity, and business needs. This role is eligible for QED's annual performance-based incentive program with a target opportunity of 5% of base pay, as well as a comprehensive benefits package and 401(k) program.

About QED Technologies

At QED Technologies, we are building what's next.

For 30 years, QED has helped customers solve complex challenges in precision optics through advanced fabrication and metrology technologies. Our proprietary solutions support applications across aerospace and defense, semiconductor manufacturing, space and astronomy, research, fusion, and other advanced industries.

Our work depends on talented people who bring curiosity, precision, collaboration, and ownership to difficult problems. We are building a high-performing culture where people are trusted to make an impact, teams work across boundaries, and continuous improvement is part of how we operate.

The Opportunity

The Junior Optics Technician helps bring QED's precision optics to life, supporting the setup, operation, and maintenance of grinding, polishing, and metrology equipment used to manufacture some of the most demanding optical components in the industry.

Reporting to the QED Optics Operations Manager, this role works under the direction of experienced technicians, engineers, and production leadership to perform routine manufacturing, inspection, and documentation tasks. This entry-level position is designed for individuals who are ready to build a career in precision optics manufacturing, including recent graduates of optics, photonics, or precision-manufacturing technical programs.

This is more than a production role. The successful candidate will bring attention to detail, a commitment to quality, and a genuine interest in learning QED's processes and technologies. You will be comfortable following established procedures and work instructions while building the hands-on skills that lead to greater responsibility and technical growth over time.

What You Will DoInspection and quality
  • Perform incoming, in-process, and final inspections of optical components using loupes, drop gauges, calipers, and other inspection equipment.
  • Record production, inspection, and process data accurately and maintain basic manufacturing records.
  • Support experienced technicians and engineers with manufacturing and process development activities.
Manufacturing and equipment support
  • Follow work instructions, travelers, and established procedures to complete manufacturing and inspection activities.
  • Assist with the preparation of tooling for grinding, polishing, and metrology operations.
  • Load, unload, clean, and handle precision optical components using proper techniques and procedures.
  • Perform routine cleaning and preventative maintenance activities on manufacturing equipment as directed.
Workplace safety and organization
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Follow all safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment, including gloves, safety glasses, and safety footwear as necessary.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
What Success Looks Like
  • Optical components are inspected accurately and consistently at each stage of production, and quality issues are identified and reported promptly.
  • Manufacturing and inspection activities are completed in accordance with work instructions, travelers, and established procedures.
  • Tooling, equipment, and precision components are handled correctly and with appropriate care.
  • Production, inspection, and process records are complete, accurate, and maintained reliably.
  • The technician demonstrates growing proficiency with QED's processes, equipment, and technologies over time.
  • The work area is clean, organized, and maintained in accordance with safety standards.
  • Experienced technicians and engineers can rely on the Junior Optics Technician for consistent, dependable support.
What You Bring
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • One to three years of experience in manufacturing, optics, photonics, quality inspection, laboratory, or other technical environments (relevant coursework and lab experience may be considered in place of work experience for recent graduates).
  • Demonstrated ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team after appropriate training.
  • Ability to regularly sit, stand, use hands to handle objects, reach with hands and arms, and communicate effectively; ability to occasionally walk and lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Ability to work safely around manufacturing equipment, CNC equipment, scissor lifts, forklifts, and other mechanical equipment following proper training.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Completion of an associate degree or certificate program in Optics, Optical Systems Technology, Photonics, Precision Manufacturing, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field.
  • Experience working in a manufacturing, laboratory, cleanroom, or technical production environment.
  • Familiarity with measurement equipment such as calipers, micrometers, height gauges, or optical inspection tools.
  • Experience handling precision components.
Work Location

The primary work location for this position is QED Optics, 1044 University Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607. This role does not offer remote work. Applicants must reside within commuting distance of the Rochester location. Relocation will not be provided for this role.

Equal Opportunity and Accommodations

QED Technologies is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse and inclusive workplace and consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Due to our ITAR status, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship at this time. All applicants must be permanently authorized to work in the United States and will not require visa sponsorship now or in the future.

QED Technologies provides reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities and for sincerely held religious beliefs, in accordance with applicable law. If you require an accommodation to complete the application process, please contact us at (585)256-6540.

Background Check

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, consistent with applicable law.

Export-Control Notice

This position may involve access to information, technology, software, or products controlled under U.S. export-control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations and Export Administration Regulations. Where applicable, QED may need to determine whether an export license or other authorization is required for a candidate to access controlled information.

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