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Optical Assembly Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IonQ

Optical Bench Alignment Technician

Broomfield, CO

$68K - $82K/yr

Support the development and improvement of assembly and alignment processes * Perform inspection, measurement, and quality control of optical assemblies * Collaborate with engineering teams to ...

AllRight Jobs Inc

Assembly Operator I ARJ/388

Goleta, CA · On-site

$27/hr

Job Summary - Perform electro-mechanical, mechanical, and optical product assembly operations on components, assemblies, and sub-assemblies. - Determine and/or follow prescribed methods and sequence ...

IonQ

Optical Bench Alignment Technician

Broomfield, CO · On-site

Support the development and improvement of assembly and alignment processes * Perform inspection, measurement, and quality control of optical assemblies * Collaborate with engineering teams to ...

Ephemeris Net

Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$160K - $250K/yr

Design the free-space optical assembly including optical design and ray tracing: tolerancing, ghost analysis, and stray light analysis to close on-orbit link budgets * Design the fiber optical layout ...

Gooch & Housego PLC

Optical Assembler II

Fremont, CA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

This role requires a wide variety of electronic and optical assembly operations on standard and non-standard assemblies or sub-assemblies. The ideal candidate determines and/or follows methods and ...

IDEX Corporation

Assembly Supervisor

West Henrietta, NY · On-site

The position oversees the assembly of optical components and systems in a precision, cleanroom environment. It requires strong technical understanding of optical handling, inspection, and measurement ...

IDEX

Assembly Supervisor

West Henrietta, NY · On-site

The position oversees the assembly of optical components and systems in a precision, cleanroom environment. It requires strong technical understanding of optical handling, inspection, and measurement ...

nLIGHT

Electro-Optical Technician

Longmont, CO

The successful candidate will perform hands-on assembly of opto-mechanical packages; inspect, mount and bond optics; assist with alignment of multi-element optical trains construct test fixtures; and ...

Excelitas Technologies

Assembly Technician

Boulder, CO · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Perform optical assembly/alignment techniques, adhesive dispensing and curing, shimming techniques, experience with lasers, electrostatic discharge training, and use of torque-limiting tools is a ...

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Optical Assembly information

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How much do optical assembly jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 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, R&D managers, or specialized technical directors can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require extensive expertise in optics, precision manufacturing, and project management, and may include bonuses or profit sharing that contribute to total compensation.

What is an optical assembly?

An optical assembly in a job context involves assembling and aligning optical components such as lenses, mirrors, and sensors to create functional optical systems. Workers in this role often use precision tools and may need knowledge of optics, electronics, and quality control to ensure proper performance of the assembled devices.

How much is the salary of a fiber optic technician?

The salary of a fiber optic technician typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in areas with high demand for fiber optic installation and maintenance.

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 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 does an optical assembly technician do?

An optical assembly technician assembles, aligns, and tests optical components such as lenses, mirrors, and prisms to ensure proper function in devices like microscopes, cameras, and laser systems. They use precision tools and follow detailed technical specifications, often working in cleanroom environments and adhering to safety standards.
More about Optical Assembly jobs
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Optical Assembly jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Assembly job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Optical Engineer with Security Clearance

Optical Engineer with Security Clearance

Encode

Lexington, MA

$144K - $186K/yr

Contractor

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an Optical AI&T Engineer to design, assemble, integrate, and test advanced optical and electro-optical systems. 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 systems, optical components, and alignment tools such as interferometers and autocollimators. Required Skills:
Bachelor’s degree with 3–5 years of experience in optical systems, lasers, and free-space optics. Hands-on expertise in optical assembly, alignment, testing, and inspection. Experience with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, TVAC) and hardware/software integration. Strong knowledge of optical fabrication and test equipment. Work Mode: 100% onsite
Interview: Virtual screening followed by onsite round

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