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Optical Alignment Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wilcox Industries

Senior Optical Engineer

Newington, NH · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

Performs "hands-on" technical work in laboratory and field environments involving electro-optical metrology, optical alignment, system testing, data collection and analysis. * Interfaces directly ...

Teradyne

Optical Systems Engineer

Reading, MA · On-site

$111K - $178K/yr

Perform hands-on laboratory work, including optical alignment, characterization, and troubleshooting of prototype systems * Assist with system modeling and performance analysis using optical ...

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Optical Engineer IV

Campus, IL

$125K - $162K/yr

Practical advanced knowledge in hardware integration, optical alignment, state-of-the-art measurement techniques. * Ability to apply for a clearance Preferred Skills: * Extensive knowledge of JPL ...

JPL

Optical Engineer IV

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$140K - $181K/yr

Practical advanced knowledge in hardware integration, optical alignment, state-of-the-art measurement techniques. * Ability to apply for a clearance Preferred Skills: * Extensive knowledge of JPL ...

Ravee Optics Inc

Senior Optical Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Support prototype development, optical alignment, integration, characterization, and environmental testing. * Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, software, manufacturing, and systems engineering ...

New

Koch Industries

Optical Process Engineer

Bridgewater, NJ · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Experience with optical alignment and coupling, beam propagation rules and/or polarization optics. * Experience manufacturing of optical component/sub-system manufacturing or a related components.

Jobtailor

Optical Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Design mechanical mounts and alignment fixtures to hold optical components in precise geometric positions relative to each other and to the overall instrument, ensuring stable optical alignment ...

Koch Industries

Senior Optical Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

The role combines hands-on optical and SiPh device packaging engineering with project/technical ... alignment, thermal and stress considerations, and material qualification. * Plan and run ...

CvilleBioHub

Optical Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Design mechanical mounts and alignment fixtures to hold optical components in precise geometric positions relative to each other and to the overall instrument, ensuring stable optical alignment ...

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Optical Alignment information

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$11

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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?

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 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.

Senior Optical Engineer

Wilcox Industries

Newington, NH • On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Wilcox develops innovative, world class electro-mechanical combat systems for today's warfighters and law enforcement officers including cutting edge laser and imaging systems. The Senior Optical Engineer is a pivotal part of the Wilcox engineering team and is responsible for providing continuous optical engineering and matrixed technical support to the engineering, R&D, and quality teams for all new and existing electro-optical systems including lenses and lasers. This includes the design, tolerancing, development, and test of new and existing optical and optomechanical designs, as well as support of NPI transition to production as well as continuous improvement efforts for products in sustainment.
Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Leads optical and optomechanical design of high-performance optical systems and components, from initial Blue Sky concepts to detailed implementation in production.
  • Performs optical modeling, simulation, tolerancing, and analysis to predict system performance of nominal and as-built systems.
  • Aligns, tests, and calibrates optical instruments and systems.
  • Leads/contributes to the development of prototype and production test fixtures, inspection requirements and work instructions as required.
  • Leads/contributes to troubleshooting technical issues applying knowledge of geometrical and physical optics, clearly communicating the plan of action with all stakeholders.
  • Performs "hands-on" technical work in laboratory and field environments involving electro-optical metrology, optical alignment, system testing, data collection and analysis.
  • Interfaces directly with the program, manufacturing, quality, and purchasing teams as well as with optical and laser technicians and assemblers.
  • Communicates the status of projects including progress, estimated time to completion, risks, and any required software, equipment, tools, etc. necessary to accomplish tasks.
  • Creates and reviews technical documentation, such as test plans and design specifications, participates in internal and external design reviews.
  • Uses document control processes to release concepts, layouts, and detailed designs.
  • Provides optical engineering support throughout the design, transition, and sustain portions of the product development process.
Qualifications & Requirements:
Education & Experience:
  • BS/MS in Optical Engineering/Physics and 7+ years of experience, or an equivalent combination of 10 years education, training, and experience, with 5+ years' experience in an optical design & development role.
  • Expertise in optics and electro-optical system design, debug, test, and alignment.
  • Experience with both laser and imaging optics.
  • Previous experience in a lead/principal design role for multiple projects/programs.
Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Advanced proficiency with optical design/analysis software (Ansys/Zemax or CodeV)
  • Laboratory optical prototyping and fixture design/assembly proficiency
  • Strong problem-solving, analytical, and data analysis abilities
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communications skills
  • Ability to work in cross-functional teams with mechanical and electrical engineers
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite
  • Ability to adapt to modern software and work methodologies, to work in a matrixed organization, and to self-manage time between multiple projects/tasks.
  • Regular on-site attendance is required.
  • Must be legally authorized to access U.S. government export-controlled technology under ITAR/EAR regulations.
Preferred Skills/Abilities:
  • Experience with Python, C/C++, MATLAB, or other programming languages.
  • Expertise with optical design and analysis software (Ansys/Zemax, CodeV, FRED).
  • Knowledge of instrument operation, calibration, & test (photometers, interferometers, autocollimators...).
  • Knowledge of metrology and optomechanical tolerancing.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear; use hands and fingers to handle and touch objects, tools, or controls to work in a production environment. Vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus to work. Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer as well as prolonged periods of standing may be required. Must be able to lift 25 pounds at times.
  • Ability to perform physical tests and handle tools/equipment used for optical alignment.

Wilcox provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state or local laws.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.

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