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Optical Assembly Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Optical Assembly Technician

Goleta, CA ยท 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 ...

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 ...

Optical Assembly Technician

Goleta, CA ยท 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 ...

Optical Assembly Technician Pay Rate: $32-$40/hour (depending on shift) Job Type: Full-Time; 2-year Contract City: Santa Clara, CA Shift(s): Mon-Fri * Day: 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM * Swing: 2:00 PM - 10:30 ...

Do optical performance test for WSS optical assembly * Apply and cure UV glues to fix optical components * Inspect own work according to quality specifications * Produce work that meets workmanship ...

Assembly Technicians II

West Henrietta, NY ยท On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

The Optical Assembly Technician 2 performs advanced optical assembly and alignment operations requiring micron- and sub-micron-level accuracy. This role is responsible for actively aligning optical ...

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Optical Assembly Technician information

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How much do optical assembly technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assembly technician in the United States is $19.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Assembly Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Assembly Technician, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of optics, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with precision measurement tools, microscopes, and assembly equipment, as well as experience following technical schematics, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving skills, patience, and teamwork enable technicians to meet quality standards and production deadlines. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the accurate assembly and alignment of sensitive optical components used in high-performance devices.

What is the difference between Optical Assembly Technician vs Optical Test Technician?

AspectOptical Assembly TechnicianOptical Test Technician
CertificationsTypically requires technical certifications or training in optics and electronicsOften requires similar certifications, with additional focus on testing procedures
Work EnvironmentAssembles optical components in cleanroom or manufacturing settingsPerforms testing and quality checks on optical products in lab or production lines
Industry UsageCommon in optical manufacturing, telecommunications, and aerospaceUsed in optical product testing, quality assurance, and R&D

While both roles involve working with optical components, the Optical Assembly Technician focuses on assembling optical devices, whereas the Optical Test Technician specializes in testing and verifying optical products' performance. Both roles require technical skills and certifications, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ within the optical industry.

What does an Optical Assembly Technician do?

An Optical Assembly Technician is responsible for assembling, aligning, and testing optical components and systems, such as lenses, mirrors, and fiber optics, used in devices like cameras, microscopes, and lasers. They follow detailed instructions and use specialized tools to ensure precise alignment and quality. These technicians also inspect components for defects, perform troubleshooting, and may assist in the maintenance and calibration of optical equipment. Their work is essential in industries such as medical devices, telecommunications, and manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by Optical Assembly Technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Optical Assembly Technicians often encounter challenges such as handling delicate components, maintaining cleanroom standards, and ensuring precise alignment of optical elements. These tasks require a high degree of attention to detail and steady hands, as even minor contamination or misalignment can affect product performance. To address these challenges, technicians should follow strict cleanliness protocols, use specialized alignment tools, and participate in ongoing training to stay updated on the latest assembly techniques and quality control measures.
More about Optical Assembly Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Assembly Technician jobs? Cities with the most Optical Assembly Technician job openings:
What states have the most Optical Assembly Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Assembly Technician jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Assembly Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Assembly Technician jobs are:
Infographic showing various Optical Assembly Technician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,506 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Optical Assembly Technician

Optical Assembly Technician

Certified Employment Group Job Openings

Santa Clara, CA โ€ข On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Contractor

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Optical Assembly Technician
Location:ย Santa Clara,ย CA
Duration:ย 2-year contract
Pay:ย $35-45/hr depending on relevant work experience
Schedule:ย Mon - Fri 6am - 2:30pm (OT required, depending on business needs)
ย 
We are seeking meticulous and disciplinedย 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:ย Build and integrate intricate optical components and mechanical sub-assemblies according to detailed SOP.
  • Cleanroom Operations:ย Work daily within an ISO Class 6 (Class 1000) cleanroom, strictly adhering to gowning protocols and contamination control procedures.
  • Microscopic Inspection:ย Utilize high-power microscopes to inspect components for surface defects (scratches, digs, or dust) and ensure precise alignment of lenses and filters.
  • Testing & Calibration:ย Use specialized optical metrology tools and computer-based software to verify system performance and log quality data.
  • Documentation:ย Maintain accurate digital and physical production logs, ensuring all assemblies meet rigorous quality assurance standards.
Work Environment & Physical Demands:
  • Environment:ย Controlled ISO Class 6 Cleanroom.
  • Gear:ย Full cleanroom attire required (bunny suit, hood, mask, gloves, and booties).
  • Shift:ย Standard shifts available; must be comfortable with the physical demands of standing and precision manual labor.
Skills:
  • Physical Stamina:ย Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 8 hours) and perform repetitive, fine-motor tasks with high accuracy.
  • Technical Literacy:ย Proficiency with computers for data entry, accessing digital work instructions, and operating automated test equipment.
  • Visual Acuity:ย Exceptional hand-eye coordination and the ability to perform prolonged tasks under a microscope without loss of focus.
  • Experience:ย 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

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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