ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Lab Manager Jobs in Gaithersburg, MD (NOW HIRING)

Trident Systems LLC

Product Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$95K - $176K/yr

Space Electronic Systems (SES), Integrated C4ISR Systems (ICS) and Optical Precision Systems (OPS ... across lab-based development efforts. This role bridges systems engineering, product management ...

Scout Space

Senior Mission Systems Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$108K - $148K/yr

Manage subcontractors and suppliers for optical payload systems * Perform hands-on lab assembly, integration, and testing as needed * Regularly contribute to proposal efforts Required Qualifications:

Scout Space

Senior Mission Systems Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$108K - $148K/yr

Manage subcontractors and suppliers for optical payload systems * Perform hands-on lab assembly, integration, and testing as needed * Regularly contribute to proposal efforts Required Qualifications:

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsOptical Lab JobsOptical Lab Manager JobsOptical Lab Manager Jobs in Gaithersburg, MD

Optical Lab Manager information

See Gaithersburg, MD salary details

$85.4K

$91.8K

$96.7K

How much do optical lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical lab manager in Gaithersburg, MD is $91,838.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,100.00 and $94,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical lab manager do?

An Optical Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of an optical laboratory, where eyeglasses and lenses are manufactured and assembled. Their responsibilities include managing staff, ensuring quality control, maintaining equipment, and overseeing inventory. They also work closely with optometrists and opticians to ensure prescriptions are accurately fulfilled and that safety and industry standards are met. Additionally, they may handle budgeting, training, and implementing new technologies or processes to improve efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical lab manager?

To thrive as an Optical Lab Manager, you need expertise in optical sciences, lens manufacturing processes, and quality control, typically supported by experience in optical labs or a related technical degree. Familiarity with lens surfacing equipment, edging machines, and lab management software is essential, along with certifications such as ABO-NCLE or equivalent. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage teams and ensure workflow efficiency. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining high production standards, minimizing errors, and delivering excellent customer service in a laboratory environment.

What are some common challenges faced by optical lab managers, and how can they be addressed?

Optical Lab Managers often encounter challenges such as maintaining high-quality standards while meeting tight production deadlines and managing a diverse team of technicians. Keeping up with rapidly advancing lens technologies and equipment can also be demanding. Addressing these challenges involves implementing robust quality control systems, providing ongoing staff training, and fostering strong communication between the lab team and optometrists. Effective inventory management and staying informed about industry best practices also help ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Optical Lab Manager vs Optical Lab Technician?

AspectOptical Lab ManagerOptical Lab Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer certifications in optical technologyHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees lab operations, manages staff, and ensures quality controlPerforms lens cutting, fitting, and assembly under supervision
Industry UsageUsed in optical labs, eyewear manufacturing, and retail optical storesCommonly employed in optical labs and retail optical settings

The Optical Lab Manager focuses on overseeing lab operations, managing staff, and maintaining quality standards, while the Optical Lab Technician handles the hands-on production of lenses and eyewear. Both roles are essential in optical manufacturing but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What job categories do people searching Optical Lab Manager jobs in Gaithersburg, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Lab Manager jobs in Gaithersburg, MD are:

What cities near Gaithersburg, MD are hiring for Optical Lab Manager jobs?

Cities near Gaithersburg, MD with the most Optical Lab Manager job openings:

Optical Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab Manager job openings in Gaithersburg, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,838 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Engineer I/II

Rocket Lab Corporation

Silver Spring, MD • On-site, Remote

$108K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR MECHANICAL ENGINEER SENIOR I/II

As a Mechanical Engineer supporting Rocket Lab's Silver Spring, Maryland site, you will lead the development of innovative and complex electromechanical systems from early concept through production implementation on aggressive timelines. This facility manufactures satellite separation mechanisms, and the selected candidate will have the flexibility to sit remote from Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach while collaborating closely with the Silver Spring team. In this role, you will drive technical execution, partner cross‑functionally, and contribute to hardware that directly supports Rocket Lab's mission of improving life on Earth by going to space. To be successful, you must be detail‑oriented, collaborative, and motivated to tackle complex challenges with a team that has each other's backs. Join a driven group delivering on exciting missions and making an impact on the future of space.

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Mechanical Engineer I or Senior Mechanical Engineer II level.)

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Lead schedule-aggressive development of innovative space mechanisms from concept through implementation as responsible engineer
  • Design mechanisms and structures in CAD and analyze using hand calcs and FEA
  • Lead requirements definition, traceability, compliance, verification, and system validation
  • Prepare and maintain technical documentation, such as system design descriptions, CONOPS and ICDs
  • Create and maintain requirements verification matrices and risk management plans
  • Support constant incremental improvements to the development team's engineering approach and best practices
  • Generate technical reports and presentations to communicate findings, progress, and recommendations to internal stakeholders and external partners
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure proper functionality across system interfaces and for end users
  • Own development schedules, project milestone reviews and technical interchange meetings
  • Mentor other engineers
  • Support business development proposals and custom SOWs
  • Support travel or off-site work to suppliers, customers, and other Rocket Lab sites, approximately 10%.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR MECHANICAL ENGINEER I:

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field
  • 5+ years experience in aerospace mechanical development projects
  • CAD and FEA proficiency
  • Thorough understandings of aerospace standards, environments, verification tests and requirements
  • Experience managing complex projects across organizational teams

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR MECHANICAL ENGINEER II:

  • SENIOR ENGINEER I qualifications plus
  • 8+ years of experience in aerospace mechanical development projects
    • 3+ years as responsible engineer on mechanical development projects
  • Experience mentoring other engineers
  • CAD and FEA proficiency
  • Thorough understandings of aerospace standards, environments, verification tests and requirements
  • Experience managing complex projects across organizational team

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • MS in relevant engineering field
  • Proficiency in NX CAD and Simcenter FEA software
  • Strong task management, communication and problem solving skills
  • Experience adapting to changing priorities and quickly resolving blockers

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)
$115,000—$198,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

What Rocket Lab employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom