Materials Science Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

If you’re looking for a special place to build or grow your career, you’ve found it. Whether you’re an experienced professional, a recent college graduate or somewhere in between, IDEX is a place where you can apply your existing skills and learn new ones in an environment where you can make an impact.

With interesting opportunities in engineering, marketing, sales, supply chain, operations, HR, finance, and more across more than 40 diverse businesses (https://www.idexcorp.com/our-businesses/business-segments/) around the globe, chances are, we have something special for you.

JOB TITLE: Optical Fabricator

LOCATION: West Henrietta

REPORTS: Glass Shop Supervisor

HOURS: B-Shift 2:00pm-10:30pm

ITAR/EAR CRITERIA:

Certain positions with IDEX Corporation and its business units require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been granted refugee or asylum status.

Who is Materials Science Solutions (MSS)?

IDEX Materials Science Solutions (MSS) is a business platform within IDEX Corporation that brings together a portfolio of industry-leading companies specializing in advanced materials, precision manufacturing, optics, coatings, ceramics, and engineered components. Serving customers in the semiconductor, space and defense, and precision forming industries, IDEX MSS partners with OEMs to solve complex engineering challenges through innovative materials science expertise and coordinated global support. From concept development and prototyping to high-volume production, the organization delivers high-performance, mission-critical solutions that enable customers to advance cutting-edge technologies and achieve reliable, scalable results.

Why Work for Us

• Be part of a team driving innovation in advanced materials and thin-film technologies.

• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.

• Collaborative environment that values entrepreneurial spirit and continuous improvement.

• Work on cutting-edge products that make a global impact.

About the Role

IDEX Optical Technologies, West Henrietta Semicon Business Line, is seeking an experienced Optical Fabricator to join our team. In this role, you will manufacture custom lens assemblies and optical systems that meet precise specifications. The ideal candidate has experience in optical systems and glass fabrication, along with strong problem-solving skills using root cause analysis tools.

Key Responsibilities

• Generate precision curves using CNC equipment to meet optical specifications and tolerances.

• Perform CNC centering operations to ensure accurate alignment of optical components.

• Hand bevel and block lenses for grinding and polishing processes.

• Execute hand grinding and CNC/conventional polishing to achieve required surface quality.

• Conduct optical inspection and metrology to verify compliance with specifications.

• Maintain cleanliness of machines, tools, and work areas to ensure quality and safety.

• Plan and schedule work for generation, blocking, grinding, and polishing areas.

• Comply with all health, safety, and PPE requirements.

• Support company values through ethical conduct and integrity in all actions.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support production and continuous improvement.

Equipment Utilized

• CNC and conventional polishing machines

• Optical inspection and metrology equipment

• Personal computer and JDE MRP software

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) and cleanroom attire

• Standard office equipment (calculator, copier, fax, etc.)

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED preferred

• Minimum of two years of related optical fabrication experience and/or training

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Proficiency in operating CNC curve generation machines and CNC centering equipment.

• High degree of accuracy and alertness when using micrometers, interferometers, and high-speed cutting wheels

• Familiarity with optical manufacturing terminology and processes

• Skilled in using conventional polishing machines and performing hand grinding and beveling.

• Ability to perform optical inspection and metrology using precision instruments such as micrometers, interferometers, and other optical measurement tools.

• Familiarity with JDE MRP software and basic computer operations.

• Comfortable using standard office equipment (calculator, copier, fax, etc.).

• Understanding of cleanroom protocols and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Knowledge of optical manufacturing terminology and processes.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy under high-speed cutting conditions.

Core Competencies

At our West Henrietta facility, success is not only about technical skills—it’s about how you approach challenges, collaborate, and contribute to continuous improvement. These core competencies reflect the behaviors and mindset we value in our team members:

• Grit and Tenacity: We operate in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment where setbacks can occur. We value individuals who persevere through obstacles, maintain optimism, and stay focused on long-term goals. This means committing to excellence, learning from challenges, and pushing forward with resilience.

• Catalyst for Change: Our industry demands agility and adaptability. We seek team members who embrace change, influence others positively, and champion improvements. Being a catalyst means not only accepting change but driving it—developing creative solutions and continuously improving systems and processes.

• Results-Oriented and Humble Winner: We value action-oriented individuals who seize opportunities and work hard to achieve results. Success here is about advancing team and organizational goals, not personal accolades. Decisions should prioritize the greater good and progress toward shared objectives.

• Creative Problem Solver: Innovation starts with curiosity and critical thinking. We need individuals who can analyze data, challenge assumptions, and develop insightful solutions. This competency ensures we stay ahead by thinking differently and broadening perspectives.

• Accountability: Ownership and integrity are essential. We expect team members to deliver on commitments, take responsibility for decisions, and hold themselves and others accountable for performance and behavior.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

• Work performed in a manufacturing environment with moderate noise, dust, and chemicals.

• Requires standing for extended periods and handling delicate optical components.

• Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs frequently.

• Use of cleanroom attire and PPE as required.

• Frequent use of precision instruments and high-speed cutting equipment.

• Visual acuity and attention to detail are critical for inspecting optical surfaces and measurements.

IDEX Materials Science Solutions, a Unit of IDEX Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Are you ready to join a different kind of company where our people, our culture, and our commitments are centered around providing trusted solutions that improve lives around the world?

Total Rewards

The compensation range for this position is $42,500.00 - $63,700.00, depending on experience. This position may be eligible for performance based bonus plan.

Benefits Package

Our comprehensive U.S. benefit offerings include: Health benefits, 401(k) retirement savings program with company match, PTO, and more. More information on our benefits and rewards can be found on our career page: https://www.idexcorp.com/careers/our-benefits-and-rewards/

IDEX is an Equal Opportunity Employer . IDEX gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other consideration or protected category made unlawful by federal, state or local laws.

Attention Applicants: If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, please let us know. Likewise, if you are limited in the ability to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, we will determine an alternate way for you to apply. Please contact our Talent Acquisition Team at lfcareers@idexcorp.com for assistance with an accommodation. These contact tools may be used only by individuals with a disability for accommodation requests. Do not inquire as to the status of an application.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

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Artificial intelligence is not used to screen, assess or select applicants.

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Job Family: Operations

Business Unit: Life Science Optics