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Optical Coating Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Corning

Optical Coating Engineer

Fairport, NY

As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will define and develop optical thin film coatings and manufacturing processes that build on Corning ...

Corning

Optical Coating Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will define and develop optical thin film coatings and manufacturing processes that build on Corning ...

Corning

Optical Coating Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will define and develop optical thin film coatings and manufacturing processes that build on Corning ...

Syntec Optics

Coating Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Provide engineering support for PVD optical coating production, spanning development, production support, and process sustainment. • Work closely with ...

Attalon, Inc.

Optical Coating Tech I

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$18.34 - $31.36/hr

Optical Coating Technician I Job Details The Optical Coating Technician I plays a key role in producing high-performance optical components by applying thin-film coatings to precision substrates.

Attalon, Inc.

Lead Coating Engineer

San Pablo, CA · On-site

$100K - $178K/yr

Attalon / Location Overview The Attalon Integrated Optical Systems business unit is a precision ... Lead Coating Engineer Job Details The Optical Coating Engineer leads the technical team and drives ...

Syntec Optics

Coating Technician I

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Champion of excellence in optical coating production. * Maintains established process parameters to ensure that quality parts are being produced. * Assists Coating Manager is maintaining production ...

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Optical Coating information

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How much do optical coating jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical coating 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 as an Optical Coating Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Coating Technician, you need knowledge of thin film deposition, precision measurement, and a background in physics or engineering, often supported by relevant technical certifications or an associate degree. Familiarity with vacuum coating systems, spectrophotometers, and cleanroom protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure high-quality coatings, minimize defects, and support the production of advanced optical components for industries like aerospace, medical devices, and telecommunications.

What is the difference between Optical Coating vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical CoatingOptical Technician
CredentialsCertifications in optics, coatings, or related fieldsHigh school diploma or technical training, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentCleanrooms, laboratories, manufacturing facilitiesOptical labs, manufacturing plants, repair shops
Industry UsageDesigning and applying coatings to lenses and optical componentsAssembling, testing, and repairing optical devices

Optical Coating specialists focus on applying specialized coatings to optical components to enhance performance, while Optical Technicians handle the assembly, testing, and maintenance of optical systems. Both roles require knowledge of optics but differ in responsibilities and work environments.

What are optical coating technicians?

Optical coating technicians are skilled professionals who apply thin layers of material onto optical components, such as lenses, mirrors, or filters, to alter their reflective, transmissive, or absorptive properties. These coatings can enhance the performance of optical devices by reducing glare, increasing light transmission, or providing protective barriers. Technicians use specialized equipment in cleanroom environments and follow precise processes to ensure high-quality coatings for applications in industries like photography, telecommunications, and medical devices.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in optical coating, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in optical coating often face challenges related to maintaining high precision and consistency in thin film deposition, as minor process variations can impact coating performance. Cleanroom environments and strict quality control protocols are essential to minimize contamination and defects. Working closely with engineers, quality assurance teams, and equipment technicians helps address technical issues quickly. Continuous training and familiarity with evolving coating technologies also support effective problem-solving and career development in this specialized field.
More about Optical Coating jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Coating jobs? Cities with the most Optical Coating job openings:
What states have the most Optical Coating jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Coating jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Coating jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Coating jobs are:
Optical Coating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Coating job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% 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 Coating Engineer

Optical Coating Engineer

Applied Optoelectronics, Inc.

Sugar Land, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Summary
Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. is currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced person to operate optical coating equipment for fabrication of thin film semiconductors. Responsibilities include operation, maintenance, modifications, designs and repairs to the coating equipment.
Job Duties
  • Responsible for optical coatings based on ion beam assisted sputtering and e-beam evaporation
  • Monitor coating deposition and take necessary actions during the run
  • Check daily coating results and fine tune the equipment setting for next run by optimizing process parameters - e.g., Gas flow, substrate temperature, rate of deposition to achieve desirable properties of films.
  • Maintain production coating runs for high quality AR and HR coatings on facets
  • Solve issues - e.g., Leak in chamber, dry pump, cryo pump maintenance, dealing with vendors to buy parts.
  • Optical measurements on ellipsometry for various coating characteristics.
  • Lead maintenance, modifications, repair of coating machines
  • Equipment modification to improve throughput or stability
  • New coating design for new applications
  • Written and oral reports and SOPs.
  • Train and support production line

Job Requirements
  • Education: Master in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or semiconductor related field, specialty in thin film deposition is a plus
  • Experience: Minimum one year experience on e-beam coating and Ion beam sputtering coating.
  • Hands-on optical coating process knowledge
  • Knowledge and hands on skills of high vacuum techniques and equipment
  • Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, planning and problem-solving/troubleshooting skills.
  • Comfortable multi-tasking in a fast-paced engineering and manufacturing environment.
  • Ability lift or move items weighing up to 20 pounds

Location
This position will be on-site based in Sugar Land, Texas.
WHY AOI?
In addition to competitive salary, AOI offers
  • Flexible and competitive health (medical, dental, vision) plans offer the employee with the right options to meet individual and family needs
  • Employer matching on 401(k) deferrals
  • Generous PTO policy, with unused PTO payout at end of the year
  • Relocation package available within US
  • Immigration sponsorships (Must be currently authorized to work in the US)

We do not accept unsolicited proposals from third-party recruiters or agencies. Contacting hiring managers directly may result in disqualification of submissions.

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