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Optical Alignment Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VISION INFOTECH INC.

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$137K - $177K/yr

Perform optical modeling, tolerance analysis, stray light analysis, alignment planning, and performance verification. * Develop and review optical specifications, test procedures, alignment ...

New

IonQ

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

Mechanical assembly, optical alignments, electronics mounting, and cable routing experience is ideal. Responsibilities : * Perform precision optical alignment and integration of components and ...

AEI-CIG

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$110K - $200K/yr

... alignment, packaging, and assembly development • Troubleshoot optical system performance issues and implement improvements • Develop technical reports, specifications, and validation procedures ...

Encode

Optical Engineer with Security Clearance

Lexington, MA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

Responsibilities include optical alignment, system integration, test planning, and performance validation in lab and cleanroom environments. The role involves working with free-space and fiber-optic ...

IonQ

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

Mechanical assembly, optical alignments, electronics mounting, and cable routing experience is ideal. Responsibilities : * Perform precision optical alignment and integration of components and ...

IPG Photonics

Optical Technician

Marlborough, MA

Execute optical alignment, inspection, and integration activities for laser-based medical devices * Assemble and test fiber optic components, connectors, optical adapters, and laser modules with high ...

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Optical Alignment information

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How much do optical alignment jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical alignment in the United States is $21.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is optical alignment?

Optical alignment is the process of positioning and adjusting optical components, such as lenses, mirrors, or lasers, so that light travels accurately through an optical system. This ensures that the system achieves optimal performance, such as focusing light correctly or directing beams precisely. Optical alignment is critical in industries like telecommunications, manufacturing, medical devices, and scientific research, where precision is essential. Technicians use specialized tools and techniques to achieve this alignment, often working in cleanroom environments to maintain high standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Optical Alignment, and why are they important?

To excel in Optical Alignment, you need a strong background in optics, precision measurement, and mechanical assembly, often supported by a degree or certification in optics, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with alignment tools such as interferometers, laser systems, autocollimators, and optical design software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure accurate alignment of optical components, optimal system performance, and the prevention of costly errors in high-precision environments.

What is the difference between Optical Alignment vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical AlignmentOptical Technician
CertificationsOften requires technical training or certifications in optics or laser systemsRequires certifications in optical manufacturing or lab procedures
Work EnvironmentInvolves precise setup in labs, manufacturing, or research facilitiesWorks in labs, manufacturing plants, or repair shops
Job FocusAligns optical components for precision systemsAssembles, tests, and repairs optical devices
Industry UsageCommon in aerospace, defense, and research sectorsUsed in optical manufacturing, repair, and production

Optical Alignment specialists focus on precisely aligning optical components within systems, requiring specialized skills and certifications. Optical Technicians handle the assembly, testing, and repair of optical devices, often working in manufacturing or repair environments. While both roles involve optics, Optical Alignment emphasizes precision setup, whereas Optical Technicians focus on device fabrication and maintenance.

What are some common challenges faced in an Optical Alignment role and how can they be managed?

Professionals in Optical Alignment often encounter challenges such as achieving precise tolerances under tight deadlines, managing environmental factors like vibration or temperature fluctuations, and troubleshooting alignment issues with complex optical systems. Success in this role requires strong attention to detail, patience, and the ability to follow meticulous procedures. Collaborating closely with engineers and technicians is essential to resolve issues efficiently and maintain quality standards. Continuous learning and adapting to new alignment technologies can also help overcome these challenges and support career advancement.
More about Optical Alignment jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Alignment jobs? The most popular types of Optical Alignment jobs are:
What states have the most Optical Alignment jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Alignment jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Alignment jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Alignment jobs are:
Optical Alignment jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Alignment job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Optical Alignment Technician

Kelly Services

West Henrietta, NY

$23 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Optical Alignment Technician | B Shift | $23.00-$27.00/hr + 10% Shift Differential
Location: Rochester, NY  (Not on a bus line access)
Shift:
  • Monday-Friday | 2:30 PM-10:30 PM

Pay:
  • $23.00-$27.00/hr + 10% Shift Differential

Kelly Services is hiring an experienced Optical Alignment Technician for a leading precision manufacturing company in Rochester, NY. This position is ideal for candidates with experience performing active optical alignment and working with precision optical equipment.
Responsibilities
  • Perform active alignment of optical components.
  • Align lenses to micron and sub-micron tolerances.
  • Use advanced optical alignment and metrology equipment.
  • Inspect optical components and machined parts.
  • Perform precision measurements and verify alignment.
  • Troubleshoot assembly and alignment issues.
  • Document build and inspection data.
  • Work closely with Engineering and Quality teams.
  • Follow cleanroom procedures and quality standards.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • 3-5 years of precision optical assembly, alignment, or optical metrology experience.
  • Optics experience through work experience or technical education is required.
  • Experience with precision measuring equipment.
  • Ability to read engineering drawings.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work independently.

Why Kelly?
  • Weekly Pay
  • Competitive Pay
  • 10% Shift Differential
  • High-tech cleanroom environment
  • Long-term career opportunity

Apply Today!
If you're ready to take the next step in your optics career, apply today. Qualified candidates will be contacted by a Kelly Services recruiter.
As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

Get a complete career fit with Kelly®.

You’re looking to keep your career moving onward and upward, and we’re here to help you do just that. Our staffing experts connect you with top companies for opportunities where you can learn, grow, and thrive. Jobs that fit your skills and experience, and most importantly, fit right on your path of where you want to go in your career.

About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
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Kelly may use AI-powered tools during the recruitment and hiring process. For full details, including how Kelly uses AI, your rights, and how to request a reasonable accommodation, visit the Recruitment Artificial Intelligence Notice.