1

Optical Field Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Optical Systems Automation Engineer

Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

... field โ€ข 5+ years experience in optical systems automation or optical manufacturing โ€ข Strong knowledge of optical fabrication, coatings, assembly, and testing methods. โ€ข Familiarity with optical ...

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field * 2+ years of experience in process development, manufacturing engineering ...

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Fairport, NY ยท On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field * 2+ years of experience in process development, manufacturing engineering ...

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Fairport, NY ยท On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field * 2+ years of experience in process development, manufacturing engineering ...

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. * 5-10 years of experience in optical design, modeling, and simulation. * Proficiency with optical design software ...

Experiences/Education - Required * BS, MS, or PhD in Optics, Optical Engineering, or a closely related field. * 5+ years of industry experience in optical design engineering, working on the full life ...

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. * 5-10 years of experience in optical design, modeling, and simulation. * Proficiency with optical design software ...

Optical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY ยท On-site

$112K - $155K/yr

Experiences/Education - Required * BS, MS, or PhD in Optics, Optical Engineering, or a closely related field. * 5+ years of industry experience in optical design engineering, working on the full life ...

Optical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY ยท On-site

$112K - $155K/yr

Experiences/Education - Required * BS, MS, or PhD in Optics, Optical Engineering, or a closely related field. * 5+ years of industry experience in optical design engineering, working on the full life ...

Reinforce a proactive safety mindset across the team Minimum Qualifications & Skills * BS, MS, or PhD in Optics, Physics, Engineering, or a related field * 8+ years of experience in optical metrology ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Optical Field information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$14

$24

$37

How much do optical field jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical field in Rochester, NY is $24.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What careers use optics?

Careers that use optics include optical engineers, photonics technicians, laser scientists, and optical system designers. These roles involve designing, testing, and maintaining optical devices such as lenses, lasers, and imaging systems, often requiring knowledge of physics, engineering, and specialized tools like optical benches and interferometers.

What can you do with a degree in optics?

A degree in optics prepares individuals for roles such as optical engineer, research scientist, or optical technician, involving the design, development, and testing of optical systems and devices. Skills in physics, mathematics, and proficiency with optical tools and software are essential for these careers, which often require laboratory work and problem-solving in industries like telecommunications, healthcare, and defense.

What jobs are in the optometry field?

Jobs in the optometry field include optometrists, who examine and diagnose vision problems; opticians, who fit and dispense corrective lenses; and optometric technicians, who assist with patient care and testing. These roles typically require relevant certifications or licenses and involve working in clinical or retail settings to improve patients' vision health.

What is the Optical Field?

The optical field refers to the area of science and industry focused on the study, design, and application of light and optical systems. This includes everything from eyeglasses and contact lenses to advanced technologies like lasers, fiber optics, and imaging devices. Professionals in the optical field may work as opticians, optical engineers, or researchers, contributing to healthcare, telecommunications, manufacturing, and scientific research. The field combines principles of physics, engineering, and biology to improve vision and develop new optical technologies.

What is the highest paid optometry job?

The highest paid optometry jobs are typically in specialized fields such as ocular disease, vision therapy, or in leadership roles like clinic directors or practice owners. These positions often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and may involve working in private practices or specialized clinics, with salaries significantly higher than general optometrists.

What are the main challenges faced by professionals working in the optical field, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in the optical field often encounter challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving technology, managing complex customer needs, and maintaining precise calibration of equipment. To address these, it's important to engage in continuous learning through industry certifications and training, collaborate closely with colleagues and manufacturers, and adhere to strict protocols for equipment maintenance. Building strong customer communication skills and staying organized can also help manage multiple appointments and ensure high-quality service.

What is the difference between Optical Field vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical FieldOptical Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in optics, physics, or engineeringOften requires a certificate or associate degree in optical technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, design, and development settingsOptical labs, manufacturing facilities, retail optical stores
Industry UsageUsed broadly in research, development, and high-tech manufacturingPrimarily in retail, clinical, and manufacturing optical services

The Optical Field encompasses a wide range of roles including research, design, and development in optics, often requiring advanced degrees. Optical Technicians focus on assembling, testing, and maintaining optical devices, usually with technical certifications. While both roles work within the optics industry, the Optical Field is more research-oriented, whereas Optical Technicians are more hands-on and production-focused.

Infographic showing various Optical Field job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,722 per year, or $24.4 per hour.