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Lapping Polishing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Coherent

Wafer Fab Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

Lapping/polishing * Characterization (CDSEM, AFM, profilometer, stressometer, etc.) * Handle chemicals (acids, solvents, plating solutions, polishing slurry) with caution and following safety ...

The Pennsylvania State University

You Will: * Preparing samples (e.g., cutting, lapping, polishing, etc.) * Characterizing materials and devices (e.g., microscopy, spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, electrical testing, etc.

Ametek

Optician - Precision Fabrication

Richmond, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

Perform advanced optical fabrication processes (coring/sawing, generating, beveling, blocking, fine grinding, lapping, polishing and finishing) for high-tolerance components. * Independently set up ...

Coherent Corp.

Wafer Fab Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

Lapping/polishing * Characterization (CDSEM, AFM, profilometer, stressometer, etc.) * Handle chemicals (acids, solvents, plating solutions, polishing slurry) with caution and following safety ...

II-VI Incorporated

Wafer Fab Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

Lapping/polishing * Characterization (CDSEM, AFM, profilometer, stressometer, etc.) * Handle chemicals (acids, solvents, plating solutions, polishing slurry) with caution and following safety ...

Coherent Corp.

Wafer Fab Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

Lapping/polishing * Characterization (CDSEM, AFM, profilometer, stressometer, etc.) * Handle chemicals (acids, solvents, plating solutions, polishing slurry) with caution and following safety ...

II-VI Incorporated

Wafer Fab Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

Lapping/polishing * Characterization (CDSEM, AFM, profilometer, stressometer, etc.) * Handle chemicals (acids, solvents, plating solutions, polishing slurry) with caution and following safety ...

Paradromics, Inc.

Process Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

Own and continuously improve in-house processes including lapping/polishing, cleaning, and mechanical assembly * Lead process improvement initiatives using structured methodologies to increase yield ...

Paradromics

Process Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

Own and continuously improve in-house processes including lapping/polishing, cleaning, and mechanical assembly * Lead process improvement initiatives using structured methodologies to increase yield ...

search-tactics

Polishing Operator

Devens, MA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Perform detailed lapping and polishing operations to meet customer specifications * Verify conformance of work in process and finished work against specified tolerances using precision measuring ...

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Lapping Polishing information

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How much do lapping polishing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for lapping polishing in the United States is $20.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lapping operator?

A lapping operator is a skilled worker who performs lapping, a precision process that involves rubbing or pressing two surfaces together with an abrasive material to achieve a smooth, flat, and high-quality finish. They typically use specialized equipment and may require knowledge of materials, measurements, and safety procedures to ensure accurate results.

What are lapping and polishing jobs?

Lapping and polishing jobs involve using specialized machines and abrasive materials to smooth, flatten, or finish the surfaces of various materials, such as metals, glass, ceramics, or semiconductors. Workers in these roles operate equipment that removes microscopic amounts of material to achieve precise surface finishes and tight tolerances. These processes are commonly used in industries like manufacturing, electronics, optics, and aerospace to ensure high-quality, defect-free surfaces. Lapping and polishing technicians must have attention to detail and a good understanding of machinery and safety procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lapping Polishing Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lapping Polishing Technician, you need a solid understanding of material properties, precise hand-eye coordination, and experience with surface finishing techniques, often supported by vocational training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with lapping and polishing machines, measurement tools like micrometers and profilometers, and safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, patience, and strong problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills for ensuring high-quality finishes and meeting tight tolerances. These skills ensure accurate, consistent results and help maintain product quality in manufacturing or laboratory environments.

What is the difference between Lapping Polishing vs Grinding Technician?

AspectLapping PolishingGrinding Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in precision finishingHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in machining or grinding
Work EnvironmentClean, controlled environments focused on surface finishingIndustrial settings with heavy machinery and metalworking
Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, electronics, opticsManufacturing, metal fabrication, automotive

Both roles require technical skills and certifications, but Lapping Polishing focuses on achieving precise surface finishes in controlled environments, while Grinding Technicians handle material removal and shaping using heavy machinery. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right career path or service provider.

What is a lapping technician?

A lapping technician is a skilled worker who performs precision surface finishing by using abrasive tools and compounds to achieve flat, smooth surfaces on metal, glass, or semiconductor components. They operate specialized equipment, follow strict quality standards, and often require knowledge of materials and measurement tools like micrometers or surface profilometers.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $2000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior engineers, surgeons, corporate executives, or consultants with extensive experience. These positions typically require advanced skills, certifications, or significant industry expertise, and may involve long hours or high responsibility levels.

What is the process of lapping polishing?

Lapping polishing is a precision process used to achieve a smooth, flat surface on materials by rubbing them against a lapping plate with abrasive slurry. The process involves using specialized equipment, such as lapping machines, and requires careful control of pressure, abrasive type, and polishing time to ensure high-quality surface finishes.

What are some common challenges faced by lapping and polishing technicians, and how can they be overcome?

Lapping and polishing technicians often face challenges such as maintaining precision tolerances, managing equipment wear, and ensuring consistent surface finishes. To overcome these, technicians should regularly calibrate and maintain their machines, use appropriate abrasives for each material, and closely monitor process parameters. Working closely with quality control teams and participating in continuous training can also help address these challenges and ensure product quality.
More about Lapping Polishing jobs
What job categories do people searching Lapping Polishing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lapping Polishing jobs are:
Infographic showing various Lapping Polishing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,101 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Optician - Precision Fabrication-San Pablo,California

Optician - Precision Fabrication-San Pablo,California

Ametek

San Pablo, CA • On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

AMETEK rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

At Zygo, your skills and insights will be integral to our core values of curiosity, collaboration, and persistence. For over 50 years, Zygo Corporation in Middlefield, CT, has been a global leader in designing and manufacturing advanced optical metrology systems, ultra-precise optical components, and complex electro-optical systems and assemblies. Join our team, where your expertise will drive cutting-edge solutions, address complex technical challenges, and uphold the highest standards of precision and safety. We are seeking an Optician - Precision Fabrication to join our Extreme Precision Optics team in Richmond, CA.
As an Optician - Precision Fabrication, you will be fabricating and finishing high-tolerance optics that support demanding customer applications across aerospace, defense, medical, semiconductor, and industrial markets. This role is part of a hands-on manufacturing environment where opticians partner closely with engineering, quality, and optical metrology to deliver components that meet stringent form, surface quality, and delivery requirements.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Perform advanced optical fabrication processes (coring/sawing, generating, beveling, blocking, fine grinding, lapping, polishing and finishing) for high-tolerance components.
  • Independently set up, operate, and troubleshoot optical fabrication equipment; select tooling/consumables and optimize parameters to achieve form, surface quality and throughput targets.
  • Lead day-to-day execution on assigned jobs; coordinate with planning, engineering and management to meet quality and on-time delivery commitments.
  • Interpret complex engineering drawings, process travelers and specifications; ensure work is documented and traceable.
  • Perform and/or support optical testing and metrology (e.g., interferometry); interpret results and recommend corrective actions.
  • Mentor and train junior opticians in equipment setup, safe optics handling and best practices; provide technical guidance as needed.
  • Maintain equipment, fixtures and tooling; perform preventive maintenance and support continuous improvement initiatives (yield, cycle time, safety and 5S).

REQUIRED SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent. Associate's degree in manufacturing or optics preferred.
  • 6+ years of hands-on production manufacturing/operations in precision optical manufacturing (lapping/polishing and finishing high tolerance optics) is highly desired.
  • Expert safe optics handling and cleaning practices appropriate for precision surfaces and coatings. Interferometry and optical metrology experience (setup, data interpretation, and feedback to process) and experience with test plate usage and advanced corrective polishing techniques preferred.
  • Optotech, Satisloh, Schneider, CNC experience preferred.
  • Strong understanding of surface quality/defect standards and how fabrication processes impact them, ability to improve process (yield/cycle time) preferred.
  • Solid mathematical aptitude with ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings, written specifications, and verbal instructions.
  • Excellent manual dexterity and attention to detail to handle delicate optical components.
  • Collaborative team player with a focus on problem-solving.
  • Ability to take initiative, be resilient and flexible with shifting priorities.
  • Organized, conscientious and focused
  • Driven to achieve with a commitment to quality and a safety-first mindset
  • Computer skills for data entry, documentation, and communication
  • Capable to lift and move up to 70 lbs. and standing for extended periods of time

Bring your passion and commitment to Zygo, where we are curious, collaborative, persistent, and confident, where safety and quality guide every step of our journey. Grow with us as we solve complex challenges, inspire confidence, and drive excellence in manufacturing.
Are you ready to expand the boundaries of possibility, simplify the complex, and embody the values that define our success? We welcome your unique perspective and invite you to join us!
We offer competitive compensation, benefits, retirement (401k) and paid time off programs. Compensation and position level will be set based on experience.
Due to the nature of Zygo Navitar's programs and products, applicants must have the legal right to work in the US and additionally must be legally authorized to access export-controlled information and source code.
Compensation
Employee Type: Hourly
Currency: USD
Salary Minimum: 55,000
Salary Maximum: 75,000
Incentive: No
Disclaimer: Where a specific pay range is noted, it is a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. The actual salary offered will be based on experience, skills, qualifications, market / business considerations, and geographic location.
For more information on AMETEK's competitive benefits, please click here.
AMETEK, Inc. is a leading global provider of industrial technology solutions serving a diverse set of attractive niche markets with annual sales over $7.5 billion.
AMETEK is committed to making a safer, sustainable, and more productive world a reality. We use differentiated technology solutions to solve our customers' most complex challenges. We employ 22,000 colleagues, in 35 countries, that are grounded by our core values: Ethics and Integrity, Respect for the Individual, Inclusion, Teamwork, and Social Responsibility. AMETEK is a component of the S&P 500. Visit https://www.ametek.com/careers for more information.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. Individuals who need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process should call 1 (866) 263-8359.
Nearest Major Market: San Francisco
Nearest Secondary Market: Oakland

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