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Optical Alignment Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IonQ

Optical Bench Alignment Technician

Louisville, CO

$68K - $82K/yr

None Job ID: 1640 The Role The Optical Alignment Technician plays a critical role in the production of Skyloom optical communication terminals. This position is responsible for the precision ...

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 ...

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA

$132K - $171K/yr

You will use your direct hands-on experience to support the build, alignment, and performance characterization of laser communication terminals, build space fiber lasers, and develop optical pointing ...

Attalon, Inc.

Sr. Principal Optical Design Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

$135K - $175K/yr

... alignment techniques and optical alignment tools and metrology (interferometers, spectrophotometers, autocollimators, theodolites, measuring/toolmaker microscope, lasers, etc.) • Lead trade studies ...

Varite

Optical Test Technician

Fairport, NY · On-site

Duration: 3-months contract with Extension This position focuses on precision optical testing and alignment. The candidate will support the assembly, integration, testing, and qualification of an ...

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How much do optical alignment jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 71% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 15% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Optical Bench Alignment Technician

Optical Bench Alignment Technician

IonQ

Louisville, CO

$68K - $82K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

About Skyloom 

Skyloom, an IonQ company, is a telecommunications company founded with the mission to develop, deploy, and operate one of the fundamental pieces of tomorrow's space communication infrastructure to provide data transport services on a planetary scale. If you have a strong sense of purpose, focus, urgency, and willingness to compete-or if working on space lasers excites you-join our team to develop the future generation of space communication technology.

Location: This role will be based onsite at our Louisville, Colorado office.
Travel: None
Job ID: 1640

The Role

The Optical Alignment Technician plays a critical role in the production of Skyloom optical communication terminals. This position is responsible for the precision alignment of optical components to enable high-performance data links under stringent performance requirements.

The role requires excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to follow and improve detailed work instructions. The technician will perform alignment, inspection, and quality control activities, while working closely with mechanical and optical engineering teams to troubleshoot issues and continuously improve production processes.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform precision optical alignment and integration of components and assemblies
  • Follow and execute detailed work instructions and alignment procedures
  • Support the development and improvement of assembly and alignment processes
  • Perform inspection, measurement, and quality control of optical assemblies
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to troubleshoot alignment and performance issues
  • Maintain accurate documentation for traceability and production tracking
  • Handle sensitive optical hardware in accordance with cleanroom and contamination control standards
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant work environment

Technical Skills

  • Proven experience in optical assembly or optical instrument manufacturing, preferably in aerospace, photonics, medical devices, or precision equipment
  • Strong experience with precision alignment tools such as autocollimators, interferometers, lasers, microscopes, and optical power meters
  • Excellent manual dexterity and precision handling of delicate optical components
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, exploded diagrams, and optical assembly procedures
  • Familiarity with cleanroom operations, ESD control, and contamination-sensitive environments
  • Understanding of optomechanical interfaces, including lens mounts, kinematic mounts, and alignment strategies
  • Experience with optical cleaning procedures and handling techniques
  • Familiarity with measurement and inspection tools (micrometers, calipers, torque tools)

Core Qualifications

  • Experience in an assembly, integration, or optical alignment environment
  • Ability to follow complex technical procedures with high accuracy
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Experience with quality control and compliance processes
  • Computer literacy (Microsoft Office, data entry systems, basic Linux familiarity preferred)
  • Knowledge of ESD and laser safety procedures
  • Ability to work effectively in cleanroom environments
  • Strong written communication skills

Soft Skills

  • Extremely detail-oriented with a rigorous and disciplined mindset
  • Strong documentation and traceability discipline
  • Ability to work independently and within multidisciplinary teams
  • High reliability, accountability, and ownership
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills
  • Mission-driven and team-oriented mindset

Preferred Qualifications 

  • 2-5 years of experience in aerospace, optical communications, photonics, or precision optics manufacturing
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Optics, Photonics, Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • Experience with optical alignment techniques, bench-top setups, and complex optical systems
  • Experience with optical bonding and adhesives
  • Experience in production environments and process improvement
  • Familiarity with advanced metrology tools such as interferometers, shearing interferometers, and infrared sensors

Compensation 

The approximate base salary range for this position is $68,456 - $82,661. The total compensation package includes base salary, bonus, equity, and a range of benefits.

**Benefits will be provided by Skyloom, Inc., an IonQ Company, and will differ from the benefits listed on the IonQ website.**

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