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Optical Coating Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LightPath Technologies, Inc.

Coating Technician

Orlando, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Responsible for operating and maintaining vacuum coating chamber. * Cleaning optics and loading/unloading and inspecting and packaging optics in a timely manner. * Keep records of coating runs and ...

Kodak

Coating Technician

Rochester, NY · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

... optical films, security films, electronic films, packaging films, and many more ... The ideal candidate will have prior experience operating roll-to-roll processes using slot die and ...

LIGHTPATH TECHNOLOGIES 1

Coating Technician

Orlando, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Responsible for operating and maintaining vacuum coating chamber. * Cleaning optics and loading/unloading and inspecting and packaging optics in a timely manner. * Keep records of coating runs and ...

Kodak

Coating Technician

Rochester, NY · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

... optical films, security films, electronic films, packaging films, and many more ... The ideal candidate will have prior experience operating roll-to-roll processes using slot die and ...

Kodak

Coating Technician

Rochester, NY · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

... optical films, security films, electronic films, packaging films, and many more ... The ideal candidate will have prior experience operating roll-to-roll processes using slot die and ...

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Optical Coating Operator information

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How much do optical coating operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical coating operator in the United States is $18.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical coating operator do?

An Optical Coating Operator is responsible for applying thin film coatings to optical components, such as lenses and mirrors, using specialized vacuum deposition equipment. They monitor and control the coating process to ensure layers are applied with precision according to specifications. Their work is critical for enhancing the performance of optical devices in industries like cameras, telescopes, and lasers. Operators also inspect finished products for quality and may perform routine maintenance on coating machines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical coating operator?

To thrive as an Optical Coating Operator, you need a solid understanding of optics, attention to detail, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with vacuum deposition equipment, spectrophotometers, and cleanroom protocols is typically required, along with knowledge of safety standards. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication abilities help operators manage production issues and coordinate with engineers and quality teams. These skills are essential to ensure the precise application of coatings, maintain quality standards, and contribute to efficient manufacturing processes.

What are the common challenges faced by an optical coating operator, and how can they be addressed?

Optical Coating Operators often face challenges such as maintaining strict cleanliness standards to avoid contaminating delicate optical surfaces, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring coating uniformity across different batches. Addressing these challenges typically involves meticulous attention to detail, adhering to cleanroom protocols, and regularly monitoring equipment settings. Operators also benefit from ongoing training and close collaboration with quality control and engineering teams to quickly resolve issues and maintain product quality.

What is the difference between Optical Coating Operator vs Optical Coating Technician?

AspectOptical Coating OperatorOptical Coating Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training on coating equipmentSimilar; may require additional certifications or technical training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or cleanroom settings focused on coating processesSimilar; often in production or quality control settings
Job FocusOperating coating machinery, monitoring processesMaintaining, troubleshooting, and inspecting coatings
Common UsageIndustry-wide in optical manufacturingOften used interchangeably, but may imply more technical responsibilities

While both roles involve working with optical coatings, the Optical Coating Operator primarily focuses on operating coating equipment, whereas the Optical Coating Technician may handle maintenance, troubleshooting, and quality checks. The roles are closely related and often overlap, but technicians typically have a broader scope of technical skills.

What is an optical coating operator?

An optical coating operator is a worker responsible for applying thin film coatings to optical components such as lenses and mirrors to enhance their performance. The role involves operating specialized equipment, maintaining clean environments, and following precise procedures to ensure coating quality and consistency.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Coating Operator jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Optical Coating Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,086 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Manufacturing Principal Engineer - Optical

Boulder, CO • On-site

BAE Systems
National Security and International Affairs • 10K+ employees
Learn more about BAE Systemsexternal

$118K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 50 rated military and defense

Job description

Job Description
We are looking for a Principal Optical Engineer to join BAE Systems' Optics department. You will be a key contributor to our optical manufacturing capabilities. You will be a key contributor to EO payloads, the Optical Engineering department, and the Engineering, Science, and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit.
The Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the technical talent and organizational leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for our customers' missions. Our collaborative, cross-functional teams are committed to innovation, integrity, continual learning and strong execution.
What You'll Do:
  • Develop, implement, and sustain BAE Systems' internal existing coating capabilities.
  • Develop, implement, and sustain BAE Systems' future coating capabilities.
  • Work with optical architects on next generation payload design and requirements.
  • Work with our supply chain and optical procurements to support payload execution.
  • Produce data packages and reports using Microsoft Office tools.
  • Work in an independent manner with minimal direction and supervision.
  • Ability to supervise and instruct technicians or junior engineers.
  • Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
  • Perform other duties as necessary.
On-Site Work Environment: This position requires regular in-person engagement by working on-site five days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non-company locations may be required.
Working Conditions:
  • Work is performed in an office, laboratory, production floor, or cleanroom, outdoors or remote research environment.
  • May occasionally work in production work centers where use of protective equipment and gear is required.
  • May access other facilities in various weather conditions.

Required Education, Experience, & Skills
  • BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required plus 6 or more years related experience.
  • Each higher-level degree, i.e., Master's Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.
  • Experience with optical coating.
  • Experience with thin film design.
  • Solid interpersonal skills demonstrated through excellent communication skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.
  • Ability and willingness to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance.
#LI-GJ1
A DoW Interim Secret clearance will be required to start work and required to be maintained to continue work. Higher level clearance or access with Polygraph is not required to be eligible for this position. However, the applicant must be willing and eligible for submission, depending on program requirements, after an offer is accepted and must be able to maintain the applicable clearance/access.
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
  • Degree(s) in Optical Engineering, Material Science, Chemical Engineering or Physics.
  • Experience operating coating chambers.
  • Experience in designing optical coatings qualified for space flight.
  • Experience working from concept through delivery of spaceflight rated hardware including data analysis and report generation is preferred.
  • Self-directed worker.
  • Experience working on a project and/or program with numerous engineering disciplines.

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $118095 - $200762
Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems
BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support.
Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

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About BAE Systems

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At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world's most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions. We employ a skilled workforce of more than 93,000 in around 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to deliver military capability, protect national security and people, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.

Industry

National security and international affairs and it services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

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