Materials Science Summer Intern Jobs in Rochester, NY

2026 Fall Internship

Starting September 08, 2026, up to 40 hrs/week

A Unique Corporate Culture Combined With a Dynamic Work Environment

Optimax has lenses throughout the Universe! We build the optics behind the latest breakthrough technologies in aerospace, defense, and consumer electronics, leveraging our optics manufacturing technology for programs that benefit humankind and projects that defend our freedom.  In other words, WE DO COOL THINGS!  Our unique corporate culture of teamwork, innovation, and agility provides a dynamic work environment. We are looking for individuals committed to lifelong learning and creating value through hard work.

Job Summary and Essential Job Duties:

Interns typically support one or more teams, witnessing before participating in actual operations, with assignments shaped to immerse them in the work and the experience. Interns have opportunities for additional network building activities/events within the Optimax community and with fellow interns.

Intern applicants are considered for all intern positions, which can vary widely in focus.  Demand by major varies by year, influenced by the work being performed at the time along with the number and focus of intern sponsor requests.  Certain majors are always requested, while other majors may only occasionally be requested.

Interns have worked on methodology improvement projects, design for manufacture studies, trend identification, determining cause and corrective actions for non-conformances, measurement system development, iterating work instructions, creating or improving tool designs, robotics test and build, mechanical builds, component or integrated system tests, laser power experiments, data analysis, supplier management, and more.

Education Requirements: 

Minimum Requirements:

• Accuracy, thoroughness, and timeliness
• Enthusiasm for learning new things with a positive attitude 
• Work both collaboratively and independently
• Analytical troubleshooting – determine root cause and select a best fix
• Ability to build proper problem statements
• Initiative to seek out new skills and techniques
• Written and verbal communication skills - able to adjust communication to audience
• Ability to work in multiple functions while maintaining the flow of information

Qualifications:

• At least 18 years of age by start date of internship assignment
• Must be authorized to work in the United States; Please note F-1 Visas are not currently sponsored by Optimax

Work Requirements:

Physical Demands:

• While performing job duties, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, talk and hear
• Job may involve prolong periods of sitting/standing
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distant vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus

Work Environment:

• Generally works in a clean environment and works to maintain the environment as such
• This position works in a manufacturing environment - noise level can vary from quiet to loud
• May involve the use of oils and solvents
• May require area-specific safety training
• May be exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes
• May be assigned to various production areas as needs require

Optimax offers a competitive salary of $31,200 to $72,000 dependent on academic standing and program of study.  

ITAR Compliance: 

Employment at Optimax Systems, Inc. is subject to export control compliance requirements, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) issued by the United States Department of State, Department of Defense Trade Controls, and the Export Administration Regulations. Learn more about the ITAR here. To meet export control compliance requirements for this position, an applicant must be a “U.S. Person” as defined by applicable regulations or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. “U.S. Person” includes a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Optimax is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected characteristics, including disability, veteran status, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, color, gender identity, or any other protected status.

If you require an accommodation to apply for this position, please contact our Human Resources team at 585-265-1020.