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Optical Assembly Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Teledyne

Optical Assembly Technician

Goleta, CA

$44K - $59K/yr

Work with assembly and inspection tools such as torque wrenches, micrometers, calipers, height gages, and dial indicators * Support of optical alignment and testing of optical systems * Document ...

Teledyne FLIR LLC

Optical Assembly Technician

Goleta, CA · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

Work with assembly and inspection tools such as torque wrenches, micrometers, calipers, height gages, and dial indicators * Support of optical alignment and testing of optical systems * Document ...

Teledyne

Optical Assembly Technician

Goleta, CA · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

Work with assembly and inspection tools such as torque wrenches, micrometers, calipers, height gages, and dial indicators * Support of optical alignment and testing of optical systems * Document ...

VOLT

Optical Assembly Technician - Entry

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$45 - $46.02/hr

As an Optical Assembly Technician, you will: * Build and integrate intricate optical components and mechanical sub-assemblies according to detailed SOP. * Work daily within an ISO Class 6 (Class 1000 ...

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How much do optical assembly jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assembly 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Optical Assembly, and why are they important?

To excel in Optical Assembly, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of optics or electronics, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with precision tools, microscopes, and assembly equipment, as well as experience with cleanroom protocols, is frequently required. Outstanding candidates demonstrate patience, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork. These skills are vital for producing high-quality optical components and maintaining efficiency and accuracy in a highly specialized manufacturing environment.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of optical assembly, high-paying roles such as senior optical engineers or technical directors can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in leadership positions or with extensive experience and specialized skills. These roles often require advanced education, certifications, and expertise in optical systems, manufacturing processes, and project management.

What is the highest paid fiber optic technician?

The highest paid fiber optic technicians typically earn salaries exceeding $70,000 annually, especially those with advanced certifications, extensive experience, or specialized skills in fiber optic installation and maintenance. Senior technicians or those working in high-demand industries or regions may earn higher compensation. Salary can vary based on location, employer, and level of expertise.

What is optical assembly?

Optical assembly refers to the process of putting together components such as lenses, mirrors, prisms, and other optical elements to create devices that manipulate light, like cameras, microscopes, telescopes, or fiber optic systems. Technicians working in optical assembly use precision tools to align and secure these components according to strict specifications. The role often involves working in cleanroom environments to avoid contamination and requires attention to detail and knowledge of optical principles.

Do you need a degree to be an optical lab tech?

An optical lab technician typically does not need a college degree but should have a high school diploma or equivalent. Training is often provided on the job, and technical skills with optical equipment and attention to detail are important. Certification is not required but can enhance job prospects.

What are the most common challenges faced during optical assembly, and how can they be addressed?

One of the most common challenges in optical assembly is maintaining precise alignment and cleanliness of optical components, as even minor misalignments or contaminants can significantly impact performance. Assemblers often work in cleanroom environments and use specialized tools to ensure accuracy. Attention to detail, patience, and steady hands are crucial for overcoming these challenges. Collaboration with engineers and quality control teams is also common to ensure that assemblies meet strict specifications and standards.

What is the difference between Optical Assembly vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical AssemblyOptical Technician
CertificationsOften requires technical training or certifications in optics or electronicsTypically holds certifications or associate degrees in optics or electronics
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or assembly lines in optical or electronics industriesLaboratories, manufacturing facilities, or repair centers
Job FocusAssembling optical components and devicesTesting, maintaining, and repairing optical equipment
Industry UsageOptics manufacturing, electronics, telecommunicationsOptical equipment maintenance, research labs, manufacturing

Optical Assembly and Optical Technician roles share overlapping skills in optics and electronics, but Optical Assembly primarily involves assembling optical components, while Optical Technicians focus on testing and maintaining optical equipment. Both roles are essential in optical manufacturing and maintenance environments.

What is an optical assembly technician?

An optical assembly technician is responsible for assembling, aligning, and testing optical components such as lenses, mirrors, and prisms used in devices like cameras, microscopes, and laser systems. They often work in cleanroom environments and use precision tools, following technical specifications and quality standards to ensure proper functionality.
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Optical Assembly jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Assembly job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Optical Assembly Technician

Optical Assembly Technician

Certified Employment Group Job Openings

Santa Clara, CA

$35 - $45/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Optical Assembly Technician
Location: Santa Clara, CA
Duration: 2-year contract
Pay: $35-45/hr depending on relevant work experience
Schedule: Mon - Fri 6am - 2:30pm (OT required, depending on business needs)
 
We are seeking meticulous and disciplined Optical Assembly Technicians to join our client's high-precision manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for the assembly, alignment, and inspection of complex optical systems. This position requires a high degree of manual dexterity and the ability to maintain strict cleanliness standards within a controlled environment.

Core Responsibilities:
  • Precision Assembly: Build and integrate intricate optical components and mechanical sub-assemblies according to detailed SOP.
  • Cleanroom Operations: Work daily within an ISO Class 6 (Class 1000) cleanroom, strictly adhering to gowning protocols and contamination control procedures.
  • Microscopic Inspection: Utilize high-power microscopes to inspect components for surface defects (scratches, digs, or dust) and ensure precise alignment of lenses and filters.
  • Testing & Calibration: Use specialized optical metrology tools and computer-based software to verify system performance and log quality data.
  • Documentation: Maintain accurate digital and physical production logs, ensuring all assemblies meet rigorous quality assurance standards.
Work Environment & Physical Demands:
  • Environment: Controlled ISO Class 6 Cleanroom.
  • Gear: Full cleanroom attire required (bunny suit, hood, mask, gloves, and booties).
  • Shift: Standard shifts available; must be comfortable with the physical demands of standing and precision manual labor.
Skills:
  • Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 8 hours) and perform repetitive, fine-motor tasks with high accuracy.
  • Technical Literacy: Proficiency with computers for data entry, accessing digital work instructions, and operating automated test equipment.
  • Visual Acuity: Exceptional hand-eye coordination and the ability to perform prolonged tasks under a microscope without loss of focus.
  • Experience: Prior experience in an ISO-certified cleanroom environment or background in electronics/medical device assembly is preferred.
Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification in optics or photonics is a significant plus.
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About Certified Employment Group

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Certified Employment Group started in San Francisco in 1963. Our cornerstone mission was, and remains, to provide ethical, caring service to each of our clients and employees. These values mean using technology to create efficiencies for our clients, expand our service offerings and enhance the level of service we can provide. As Northern California businesses have prospered, Certified has responded by opening branches to serve high-growth areas. We have expanded our services to include on-site management for major accounts, developing a web based interface and opening specialized divisions in Legal, Renewable Energy and Accounting. Certified remains independently owned, responsive, flexible and wholly committed to our original values. We believe this is the reason for our success. Industry rankings continually place Certified in the top ten percent based on sales!

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Emeryville, CA, US

Year founded

1963

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