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Optical Assembly Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optical Assembly Technician (Entry Level) Location: Piscataway, NJ Schedule: Full-Time | Monday-Friday | Pay Range: $20-$24/hour About the Role We are seeking a detail-oriented Optical Assembly ...

About the Role Astera Labs is seeking a Principal Optical Assembly Engineer to drive development of optical assembly processes that support next-generation photonics products for scale up and scale ...

The Optical Assembly Technician plays a critical role in manufacturing and testing precision electro-optical systems that enable our customers to see clearly, decide faster, and act decisively. This ...

About the Role Astera Labs is seeking a Principal Optical Assembly Engineer to drive development of optical assembly processes that support next-generation photonics products for scale up and scale ...

As an Optical Assembly Technician for the Extreme Precision Optics Group in Richmond, CA, you will generate a consistent flow of high-quality work performing assembly operations consisting of optical ...

Optical Assembly Technician

Waltham, MA ยท On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Identify and diagnose assembly failures or optical misalignments and collaborate with manufacturing engineers to implement corrective actions. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS * 7+ years of experience in ...

Optical Assembly Technician

Waltham, MA ยท On-site

$41.35 - $54.81/hr

Identify and diagnose assembly failures or optical misalignments and collaborate with manufacturing engineers to implement corrective actions. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS * 7+ years of experience in ...

As an Optical Assembly Technician for the Extreme Precision Optics Group in Richmond, CA, you will generate a consistent flow of high-quality work performing assembly operations consisting of optical ...

As an Optical Assembly Technician for the Extreme Precision Optics Group in Richmond, CA, you will generate a consistent flow of high-quality work performing assembly operations consisting of optical ...

Optical Assembly Technician

Waltham, MA ยท On-site

$41.35 - $54.81/hr

Identify and diagnose assembly failures or optical misalignments and collaborate with manufacturing engineers to implement corrective actions. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS * 7+ years of experience in ...

As an Optical Assembly Technician for the Extreme Precision Optics Group in Richmond, CA, you will generate a consistent flow of high-quality work performing assembly operations consisting of optical ...

Optical Assembly Technician

Waltham, MA ยท On-site

$41.35 - $54.81/hr

Identify and diagnose assembly failures or optical misalignments and collaborate with manufacturing engineers to implement corrective actions. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS * 7+ years of experience in ...

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Optical Assembly information

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How much do optical assembly jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 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 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.

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 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.

Is optical assembly a good career?

Optical assembly involves assembling and testing optical components and devices, often requiring precision and attention to detail. It can be a stable career with opportunities in manufacturing, electronics, and technology sectors, and may require knowledge of optical tools and safety procedures.

What is the role of an optical assembly technician?

An optical assembly technician is responsible for assembling, aligning, and testing optical components such as lenses, mirrors, and prisms to ensure proper function and performance. They often use precision tools and follow detailed technical specifications, working in cleanroom environments and adhering to quality standards. Certification in optics or related fields and attention to detail are important for this role.
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Cities with the most Optical Assembly job openings:

What states have the most Optical Assembly jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Optical Assembly jobs?

For Optical Assembly jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Optical Assembly job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 3% 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

Piscataway, NJ โ€ข On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Optical Assembly Technician (Entry Level)

Location: Piscataway, NJ
Schedule: Full-Time | Monday-Friday |
Pay Range: $20-$24/hour

About the Role

We are seeking a detail-oriented Optical Assembly Technician to join a leading high-tech manufacturing environment focused on precision optical and electro-mechanical products. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with internship experience or up to one year of experience in manufacturing, electronics, cleanroom operations, medical device assembly, laboratory environments, or related technical fields.


In this role, you will assemble, align, test, and inspect highly precise optical and mechanical components while following strict quality, traceability, cleanroom, and ESD standards.


Responsibilities

  • Clean, assemble, and inspect high-precision optical and mechanical components.
  • Build spectrometers, diffraction gratings, miniaturized motor assemblies, opto-sensors, and electronic subassemblies following detailed work instructions.
  • Perform precise optical alignments and adjustments.
  • Utilize epoxy resins, adhesives, hand tools, and small assembly equipment.
  • Conduct testing, validation, and optimization using automated software and specialized test equipment.
  • Record traceability and test results using PC-based systems, Excel, and proprietary software.
  • Follow all ESD, cleanroom, and quality procedures.
  • Read and interpret written procedures, work instructions, and assembly documentation.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.


Required Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Internship experience or 0-1 years of experience in one or more of the following:
    • Manufacturing
    • Electronics Assembly
    • Optical Assembly
    • Cleanroom Environment
    • Laboratory Setting
    • Medical Device Assembly
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Ability to read, comprehend, and follow written procedures and work instructions.
  • Ability to understand and follow verbal instructions.
  • Comfortable working with small, delicate components.
  • Ability to adhere to strict ESD and cleanroom requirements.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with optical alignment.
  • Background in electronics and small-part assembly.
  • Ability to read CAD drawings.
  • Experience using Bills of Materials (BOMs) for assembly.
  • Experience assembling electro-mechanical or optical subassemblies.
  • Knowledge of diffraction gratings or spectroscopy-related products.