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Optical Alignment Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NCSL International

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87.10 - $157.45/hr

Play a hands-on role in laboratory activities, including optical alignment, integration, testing, and characterization of components and prototype systems. * Evaluate and mature emerging optical ...

AEI-CIG

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$110K - $200K/yr

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

Koitecc Solutions

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87.10 - $157.45/hr

Play a hands-on role in laboratory activities, including optical alignment, integration, testing, and characterization of components and prototype systems. * Evaluate and mature emerging optical ...

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 ...

Ravee Optics Inc

Senior Optical System Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Support optical alignment, calibration, and test (including pointing, tracking, and acquisition) in lab and field settings. * Engage in customer briefings, system requirement definition, and roadmap ...

New

Syntec Optics

Optical Metrology Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

Support optical alignment, troubleshooting, and root-cause investigations during prototype and production builds. * Collaborate with optical design, manufacturing, quality, and engineering teams to ...

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 ...

Tomorrow.io

Optical Payload Engineer

Golden, CO · On-site

$133K - $172K/yr

Assess thermal, structural, and environmental effects on optical alignment and image quality. * Demonstrate understanding of payload integration and test activities, including optical alignment ...

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 ...

Tomorrow.io

Optical Payload Engineer

Golden, CO · On-site

$133K - $172K/yr

Assess thermal, structural, and environmental effects on optical alignment and image quality. * Demonstrate understanding of payload integration and test activities, including optical alignment ...

New

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Optical Alignment information

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$37

How much do optical alignment jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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 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.

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.

More about Optical Alignment jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Alignment jobs?

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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?

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Optical Alignment jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Alignment job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 15% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Optical Systems Automation Engineer

Syntec Optics

Rochester, NY • On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

We are seeking an Optical Systems Automation Engineer to design, implement, and maintain automated systems for optical alignment, calibration, and test of imaging and optical assemblies. This role bridges optics, motion control, machine vision, and software, enabling scalable, repeatable, and high-yield manufacturing of optical systems and camera modules.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Optical Automation & Alignment

• Design and implement automated optical alignment systems (active and passive)

• Develop focus, centering, tilt, and spacing alignment algorithms

• Integrate cameras, light sources, collimators, targets, and metrology tools

• Optimize alignment speed, accuracy, and yield for production use

Test & Calibration Systems

• Develop automated optical test stations (MTF, SFR, distortion, FOV, CRA, focus)

• Implement calibration routines for imaging systems and optical assemblies

• Automate pass/fail criteria, data capture, and traceability

• Support thermal, vibration, and environmental test automation as needed

Software & Controls

• Develop automation software (Python, C/C++, LabVIEW, or similar)

• Interface with motion controllers, PLCs, frame grabbers, and DAQ hardware

• Implement closed-loop optimization using image-based feedback

• Develop GUIs and operator workflows for manufacturing environments

Manufacturing Integration

• Transition automation from lab to pilot line to production

• Support yield improvement, cycle time reduction, and process stabilization

• Develop fixtures, tooling, and work instructions

• Support GR&R, Cp/Cpk, and process capability studies

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with optical design, camera systems, mechanical, and quality teams

• Support DFM/DFA decisions related to optical tolerances and assembly strategy

• Troubleshoot optical, mechanical, and software issues in production

Education, Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related field

• 5+ years experience in optical systems automation or optical manufacturing

• Strong knowledge of optical fabrication, coatings, assembly, and testing methods.

• Familiarity with optical design software (Zemax, Code V) or metrology systems (interferometry, profilometry, MTF testing).

• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency required (ITAR compliance).

• Strong understanding of Optical alignment principles and tolerancing, Imaging performance metrics (MTF/SFR, distortion, focus), Motion control systems (stages, encoders, actuators).