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Optical Assembly Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This role executes optical tests, interprets results, and supports mechanical and optical adjustments to improve product performance. The position also serves as a liaison to the assembly team by ...

Optical Engineer with Security Clearance

Lexington, MA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

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 Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

Mechanical assembly, optical alignments, electronics mounting, and cable routing experience is ideal. Responsibilities : * Perform precision optical alignment and integration of components and ...

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

Mechanical assembly, optical alignments, electronics mounting, and cable routing experience is ideal. Responsibilities : * Perform precision optical alignment and integration of components and ...

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 ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Perform hands-on laboratory activities including optical assembly, alignment, cleaning, characterization, and testing of optical systems. * Contribute to engineering documentation, design reviews ...

Optical Communications Engineer II

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$137K - $177K/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 ...

We are seeking a meticulous and disciplined Optical Assembly Technician to support our client's high-precision manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for the assembly, alignment ...

Enterprise Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$124 - $186/hr

Design and develop optical component, optical assembly, and optomechanical solutions for responding to market needs targeted by GSD's Strategic Intent. * Thoroughly and comprehensively understand the ...

Optical assembly experience is valuable in this role, but the primary focus is hands-on electronics support, board debug, and reliable execution in the lab. The Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is ...

Enterprise Optical Engineer

$132K - $170K/yr

Design and develop optical component, optical assembly, and optomechanical solutions for responding to market needs targeted by GSD's Strategic Intent. * Thoroughly and comprehensively understand the ...

Enterprise Optical Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site +1

$127K - $165K/yr

Design and develop optical component, optical assembly, and optomechanical solutions for responding to market needs targeted by GSD's Strategic Intent. * Thoroughly and comprehensively understand the ...

ASSEMBLY OPERATOR III

Arden, NC · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Polish and test fiber optic cables. * Assemble and package fiber optic connector components (as ... Minimum 1 year assembly manufacturing experience required with knowledge and understanding of ...

Showing results 41-60

Optical Assembly information

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$11

$21

$37

How much do optical assembly jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 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.
More about Optical Assembly jobs

What cities are hiring for Optical Assembly jobs?

Cities with the most Optical Assembly job openings:

What states have the most Optical Assembly jobs?

States with the most job openings for Optical Assembly jobs include:

Infographic showing various Optical Assembly job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 7% 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.

Test Technician- Assembly B-Shift

IDEX

West Henrietta, NY

$16.75 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

If you're looking for a special place to build or grow your career, you've found it. Whether you're an experienced professional, a recent college graduate or somewhere in between, IDEX is a place where you can apply your existing skills and learn new ones in an environment where you can make an impact.

With interesting opportunities in engineering, marketing, sales, supply chain, operations, HR, finance, and more across more than 40 diverse businesses around the globe, chances are, we have something special for you.

This role is a B-Shift/2nd Shift Opening with hours of 2:00pm-10:30pm

ITAR/EAR CRITERIA:

Certain positions with IDEX Corporation and its business units require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been granted refugee or asylum status.

Who is Materials Science Solutions (MSS)?

IDEX Materials Science Solutions (MSS) is a business platform within IDEX Corporation that brings together a portfolio of industry-leading companies specializing in advanced materials, precision manufacturing, optics, coatings, ceramics, and engineered components. Serving customers in the semiconductor, space and defense, and precision forming industries, IDEX MSS partners with OEMs to solve complex engineering challenges through innovative materials science expertise and coordinated global support. From concept development and prototyping to high-volume production, the organization delivers high-performance, mission-critical solutions that enable customers to advance cutting-edge technologies and achieve reliable, scalable results

About the role:

The Test Technician position performs final optical assembly optimization and testing to ensure accuracy, repeatability, and performance within defined requirements. This role executes optical tests, interprets results, and supports mechanical and optical adjustments to improve product performance. The position also serves as a liaison to the assembly team by providing feedback on build quality and performance. Work is performed in a controlled cleanroom manufacturing environment and requires a strong understanding of optical theory, testing methods, and performance variation.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Perform optical testing accurately and consistently, including measurements of transmission, wavefront error, mechanical fit, and boresight error.
  • Perform assembly optimization activities such as mechanical alignment and shim adjustments using optical test data.
  • Apply optical theory and terminology to understand system performance and test results.
  • Interpret measurement results and identify adjustable degrees of freedom to improve optical performance.
  • Identify causes of variation in optical performance.
  • Identify and troubleshoot test equipment issues, including alignment problems, sensor performance issues, and lightsource variation.
  • Follow work instructions when available, using engineering drawings, production routers, and other available information when instructions are not available.
  • Follow production schedules to support ontime completion of testing activities.
  • Diagnose assembly failures and recommend corrective actions.
  • Perform simple assembly functions as required to support testing and optimization activities.
  • Comply with health and safety policies and procedures.
  • Support company values, including ethical conduct and high integrity in all actions.
  • Comply with cleanroom protocols when entering and working in controlled cleanroom environments.

Education & Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree (B.A.) from a fouryear college or university preferred, with an optical background strongly preferred.
  • Associate degree in optics or equivalent technical discipline preferred.
  • 3-5 years of related experience in optical testing, optical assembly optimization, or a combination of testing and precision optical assembly.
  • Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

  • Strong understanding of optical theories and optical terminology.
  • Ability to understand and interpret optical measurements and performance data.
  • Experience using optical test equipment such as interferometers, spectrophotometers, power meters, and beam profilers or cameras.
  • Ability to identify adjustable parameters that influence optical performance.
  • Ability to diagnose test and assemblyrelated performance issues.
  • Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including communication with direct management and engineering.
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret scientific and technical journals and documentation.
  • Ability to work with mathematical concepts including probability, statistical inference, plane and solid geometry, trigonometry, ratios, and proportions.
  • Strong reasoning ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Ability to interpret complex technical instructions presented in mathematical or diagram form and work with multiple variables.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands:

  • Work is performed in a cleanroom manufacturing environment.
  • Requires compliance with defined gowning and contaminationcontrol protocols.
  • Involves use of optical test equipment and interaction with sensitive optical assemblies.
  • Requires sustained visual focus and attention to detail.
  • May involve extended periods of sitting or standing.

IDEX Materials Science Solutions, a Unit of IDEX Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Are you ready to join a different kind of company where our people, our culture, and our commitments are centered around providing trusted solutions that improve lives around the world?

Total Rewards

The compensation range for this position is $48,000.00 - $72,000.00, depending on experience. This position may be eligible for performance based bonus plan.

Benefits Package

Our comprehensive U.S. benefit offerings include: Health benefits, 401(k) retirement savings program with company match, PTO, and more. More information on our benefits and rewards can be found on our career page:https://www.idexcorp.com/careers/our-benefits-and-rewards/

IDEX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IDEX gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other consideration or protected category made unlawful by federal, state or local laws.

Attention Applicants: If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, please let us know.Likewise, if you are limited in the ability to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, we will determine an alternate way for you to apply. Please contact our Talent Acquisition Team at lfcareers@idexcorp.com for assistance with an accommodation. These contact tools may be used only by individuals with a disability for accommodation requests. Do not inquire as to the status of an application.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.Artificial intelligence is not used to screen, assess or select applicants.

IDEX logo

About IDEX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

IDEX Corporation is a global leader in fluid and metering technologies, providing a wide range of solutions for various industries. With a diverse portfolio of highly engineered products, IDEX serves customers in sectors such as healthcare, life sciences, food and beverage, water and wastewater, energy, and more. IDEX's innovative solutions help their customers optimize processes, enhance efficiency, and improve safety. IDEX's product offerings include precision fluid handling systems, pumps, valves, meters, dispensing equipment, and other specialty products. These technologies are designed to meet rigorous standards and deliver reliable performance in critical applications.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Lake Forest, IL, US

Year founded

1988

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