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Laser Optics Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate

Batavia, NY · On-site

$69K - $92K/yr

Familiarity with laser-cooled atoms, optical clocks, single-photon atom optics, atom interferometry, or frequency-stabilized lasers. * Scientific computing: Experience with Python, C++, Julia, UNIX ...

Experience in optics or precision optics manufacturing * Familiarity with G-code, Mastercam, or ... Knowledge of optical materials or coatings used in laser applications This position does not ...

Experience in optics or precision optics manufacturing * Familiarity with G-code, Mastercam, or ... Knowledge of optical materials or coatings used in laser applications This position does not ...

Experience in optics or precision optics manufacturing * Familiarity with G-code, Mastercam, or ... Knowledge of optical materials or coatings used in laser applications This position does not ...

Showing results 21-40

Laser Optics information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$13

$19

$27

How much do laser optics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser optics in Rochester, NY is $19.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main challenges faced by professionals working in laser optics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Laser Optics often encounter challenges related to precise alignment, maintaining beam quality, and managing optical component contamination. Working in controlled environments and adhering to strict cleanliness protocols are crucial for ensuring system reliability. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—such as engineers and physicists—is common, and strong communication skills help in troubleshooting and optimizing optical setups. Staying updated with the latest advancements and regularly calibrating equipment can also mitigate many common issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laser optics engineer?

To excel as a Laser Optics Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, optics, and engineering, typically supported by a relevant degree such as optical engineering or applied physics. Familiarity with optical design software (like Zemax or Code V), laser alignment equipment, and laboratory measurement tools is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for this role. These competencies are critical for developing precise optical systems, troubleshooting complex issues, and ensuring high-performance results in research or industrial applications.

Is becoming a laser optics technician worth it?

Laser optics technicians install, maintain, and troubleshoot laser systems used in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and research. The role requires technical skills, knowledge of optics and laser safety, and often a certification or associate degree; it can offer stable employment and competitive wages. Career growth depends on experience, specialization, and industry demand.

What is laser optics?

Laser optics is a specialized field focused on the components and systems that manipulate laser light, such as lenses, mirrors, beam splitters, and filters. Professionals in laser optics design, test, and maintain optical devices used in applications ranging from scientific research and telecommunications to manufacturing and medicine. Their work ensures that laser beams are precisely controlled for tasks like cutting materials, transmitting data, or conducting precise measurements. A solid understanding of physics, materials science, and optical engineering is essential in this field.

What degree do you need to work with laser optics?

A career in laser optics typically requires at least a bachelor's degree in physics, optical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field. Advanced roles may require a master's or doctoral degree, along with experience in optics, laser systems, and relevant laboratory skills.
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Infographic showing various Laser Optics job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,842 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Research Associate

Fermilab

Batavia, NY • On-site

$69K - $92K/yr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Fermilab rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

The expected hiring range for this position is:

$69,800.00-$92,600.00.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such the scope and responsibilities of the position, qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

About the Role: Under general direction and in consultation with more experienced scientists, the Research Associate, Quantum Division conducts research related to the overall mission of the Laboratory. Research may be within any scientific or technology development activity of the appointee's Division.

What You'll Bring:

  • Experimental AMO or quantum-sensing expertise: Experience operating, troubleshooting, and analyzing complex laboratory experiments involving cold atoms, lasers, optics, or related systems

  • Independent experimental problem solving: Ability to design measurements, identify systematics, and turn open-ended scientific questions into actionable experimental or analysis plans.

  • Scientific communication: Strong written and oral communication skills, demonstrated through publications, presentations, documentation, or collaboration work.

  • Demonstrated potential to make meaningful contributions to the laboratory that support future consideration for appointment as an Associate Scientist.

Additional Skills That Will Set You Apart:

  • Laser cooling or atom interferometry experience: Familiarity with laser-cooled atoms, optical clocks, single-photon atom optics, atom interferometry, or frequency-stabilized lasers.

  • Scientific computing: Experience with Python, C++, Julia, UNIX/Linux, bash, git, data analysis, or reproducible scientific software workflows.

  • Simulation and statistical analysis: Experience developing simulations, systematics models, signal-inference tools, or analysis pipelines for complex experiments.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor.

  • Abides by and is responsible for performing all duties in accordance with all environmental, health and safety regulations and practices pertinent to this position.

Essential Competencies and Attributes for Success:

  • Completion of PhD or are expected to complete within the current calendar year.

Work Arrangement:

  • Onsite: This is an onsite role, and the candidate must be able to work from our Batavia office.

Benefits/Perks:

Fermilab offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits program, including:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision and Flexible Spending Account

  • Paid time-off

  • Life insurance

  • Short and Long-term disability insurance

  • Retirement benefits

  • Onsite day care

Why Fermilab:
Fermilab is America's premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. We support discovery science experiments in Illinois and locations around the world, including deep underground mines in South Dakota and Canada, mountaintops in Arizona and Chile, CERN in Europe and the South Pole.

Pre-Employment Screening:


Drug-Free Workplace & Pre-Employment Screening

Fermilab is dedicated to fostering a safe, productive and drug-free environment. An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

HSPD-12

In accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a federal background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.

Foreign Government Sponsored Activities

Fermilab employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. Such individuals will be asked to disclose any participation for review by Fermilab's Office of General Counsel.

REAL-ID Requirement for access to Fermilab Campus
Fermilab requires all members of the public to produce a REAL-ID, or equivalent, to access the Fermilab Campus for interviews or career events. A list of acceptable forms of ID can be found here: https://get-connected.fnal.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/REALID-Documents.pdf. If a candidate is selected for an interview but does not possess any of the equivalent documents, we may schedule a virtual interview.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Fermilab is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected categories.


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