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Optical Coating Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an Optics Coating Operator to join our precision Middlefield Optics team. As an ... Clean optical components and monitor vacuum chamber for the deposition of optical coatings on ...

Thin Film Coating Technician

Fairport, NY · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... Manage coating recipe and layer programming, create individual coating run documentation files ...

Thin Film Coating Technician

Fairport, NY · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... Manage coating recipe and layer programming, create individual coating run documentation files ...

We are seeking an Optics Coating Operator to join our precision Middlefield Optics team. As an ... Clean optical components and monitor vacuum chamber for the deposition of optical coatings on ...

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... Manage coating recipe and layer programming, create individual coating run documentation files ...

Thin Film Coating Technician

Fairport, NY

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... Manage coating recipe and layer programming, create individual coating run documentation files ...

Thin Film Coating Technician

Fairport, NY

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... Manage coating recipe and layer programming, create individual coating run documentation files ...

We are seeking an Optics Coating Operator to join our precision Middlefield Optics team. As an ... Clean optical components and monitor vacuum chamber for the deposition of optical coatings on ...

We are seeking an Optics Coating Operator to join our precision Middlefield Optics team. As an ... Clean optical components and monitor vacuum chamber for the deposition of optical coatings on ...

We are seeking an Optics Coating Operator to join our precision Middlefield Optics team. As an ... Clean optical components and monitor vacuum chamber for the deposition of optical coatings on ...

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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:
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.

Staff Optical Coating Process Engineer

Coherent

Santa Rosa, CA

$141K - $182K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

  • Have in-depth knowledge of reactive magnetron sputtering processes and their relationship to thin-film growth processes sufficient to understand their effects on optical, structural and mechanical properties of multilayer thin films.
  • Have sufficient analytical knowledge of automated thin film vacuum sputter deposition chamber operation to support Process change decisions regarding; Programmable Logic Controllers, Agility HMI automation, process control interfaces, process control setup, laser monitoring, Manufacturing execution system and database interface. 
  • Have in depth knowledge and experience with vacuum equipment including, pumps, valves, feedthroughs, Mass flow valves, pressure gauges, magnetron cathodes, heaters and heat control systems.
  • Understand Optical thin-film design theory and how to use Optical thin-film design codes for characterizing manufacturing errors. Working knowledge of basic design building blocks, effective indices and the various applications of symmetric design components.
  • Analytical knowledge of automated Optical monitoring systems used for accurate layer thickness control of coatings with as many as 400 layers and synchronous control of deposition process.
  • Ability to interpret and analyze data from radiometric fiber optic measurement system utilizing grin lenses and tunable laser sources. 
  • Working together with engineers in a team environment where project actions are interdependent upon multiple team members where shared ideas may be accepted or challenged in an effort to achieve the best outcome for all.
  • Responsible for daily decisions on process, product and equipment problems and their impact on production costs and on-time delivery commitments.
  • Develop new tools and processes for manufacturing new products and integrate them into the manufacturing systems.
  • Interact closely with the Manufacturing team to monitor and clarify procedures.
  • Support Planning and Manufacturing to optimize product flow, throughput and on-time delivery goals.
  • Perform continuous process improvement and development of tools to assist engineering and manufacturing in evaluation of processes, diagnosis of equipment failures, product and business. Support decisions using measurable statistics.
  • Maintain and optimize predictive tools to maximize run yields and minimize downtime.
  • Perform product qualifications for new products or for specified process changes
  • Write or modify work instructions for tasks associated with coating processes, measurement instrumentation and software tool utilized by technicians.
  • Participate in major development efforts driven by Management and work together with Senior engineers to identify how to best support the effort
  • Communicate well with outside vendors and customers, fostering good working relationships.

Education & Experience

  • BS degree or higher in Engineering, Physics or related field
  • 5 years of professional optical coating process engineering in manufacturing.

Skills

  • In depth knowledge of reactive magnetron sputter deposition processes, thin film growth processes and their interrelationships
  • In depth knowledge of thin film design theory, thin film design code development and product application.
  • General knowledge of statistical software packages, interpretation of statistics and an ability to clearly communicate statistical results to others.
  • Experience Decreasing/Eliminating process variations using problem solving methodologies to; understand root causes, confirm hypotheses, implement resolutions, and optimize improvement
  • General knowledge optical thin film metrology for telecommunication filters 
  • Familiarity with Matlab/Visual Basic/Labview/Python codes for equipment control and data analysis and proficient in one of these languages.
  • Have proficient general computer skills. Some examples are; experience with commercial thin film software, and other programs, Word, Excel, power point etc.
  • Experience TFCALC preferred.

Working Conditions

  • Shift and 'on-call' work may be required, particularly where manufacturing/production equipment is in continual 24-hour operation.

Physical Requirements

  • Able to lift and move up to 25lbs without assistances 

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work


 

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.


 

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.


 

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.