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Optical Lab Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Diffraqtion

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

This is a hands-on, bench-first role: you will spend most of your time in the lab--mounting and aligning optics, assembling prototypes, running experiments, taking measurements, and troubleshooting ...

Diffraqtion

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

This is a hands-on, bench-first role: you will spend most of your time in the lab--mounting and aligning optics, assembling prototypes, running experiments, taking measurements, and troubleshooting ...

Diffraqtion

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

This is a hands-on, bench-first role: you will spend most of your time in the lab--mounting and aligning optics, assembling prototypes, running experiments, taking measurements, and troubleshooting ...

Optikos, LLC.

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Demonstrates enthusiasm for hands-on work in the lab: * o Build and test mechanical and optical designs. * o Experience with optical test equipment (interferometers, autocollimators ...

Encode

Optical Engineer with Security Clearance

Lexington, MA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

Responsibilities include optical alignment, system integration, test planning, and performance validation in lab and cleanroom environments. The role involves working with free-space and fiber-optic ...

Novanta Inc

Sr. Optical Engineer

Bedford, MA · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

Lab and prototype development experience * Experience working with optics vendors and manufacturing processes * Capable of independent and team-based work, with a proactive approach to problem ...

Novanta

Sr. Optical Engineer

Bedford, MA

$130K - $175K/yr

Lab and prototype development experience * Experience working with optics vendors and manufacturing processes * Capable of independent and team-based work, with a proactive approach to problem ...

Novanta, Inc.

Sr. Optical Engineer

Bedford, MA · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

Lab and prototype development experience * Experience working with optics vendors and manufacturing processes * Capable of independent and team-based work, with a proactive approach to problem ...

Novanta Inc.

Sr. Optical Engineer

Bedford, MA · On-site

$130 - $175/hr

Lab and prototype development experience * Experience working with optics vendors and manufacturing processes * Capable of independent and team-based work, with a proactive approach to ...

L3HHCM20

Lead, Optical Engineering

Wilmington, MA · On-site

Lead and conduct thorough testing and alignment of complex optical systems within a lab environment. Interpret interferometry measurement data (Zernike terms) to aid in adjustment of components and ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

S. preferred). * 2-5 years work experience designing, building, or testing optical and opto-mechanical systems in a non-academic (industry, national lab, FFRDC or similar) environment with enterprise ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA

$130K - $170K/yr

S. preferred). * 2-5 years work experience designing, building, or testing optical and opto-mechanical systems in a non-academic (industry, national lab, FFRDC or similar) environment with enterprise ...

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Optical Lab information

See Massachusetts salary details

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How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Massachusetts is $23.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical lab?

An optical lab is a specialized facility where prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other optical devices are manufactured and assembled. These labs use advanced machinery and skilled technicians to cut, grind, and coat lenses according to a patient's prescription. Optical labs also fit lenses into frames, check for quality, and ensure that each pair of glasses meets the required standards for vision correction and safety.

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

To thrive as an Optical Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of lens fabrication, optical measurements, and quality control, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training in optics. Familiarity with lens edgers, surfacing machines, and digital measurement systems is essential, and certifications from organizations like the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) can be beneficial. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving skills help ensure precision and efficiency in daily tasks. These skills are critical for producing high-quality eyewear that meets both industry standards and customer needs.

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

Professionals in an Optical Lab often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise quality control, managing high volumes of orders, and adapting to rapidly evolving lens technologies. Attention to detail is crucial, as even small errors can impact a patient's vision and satisfaction. To address these challenges, it’s important to follow strict standard operating procedures, utilize continuous training on new equipment, and foster strong communication with optometrists and sales teams to ensure accuracy and timely delivery.

What is the difference between Optical Lab vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical LabOptical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in lens fabricationHigh school diploma, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing setting, working with lens equipmentRetail or clinical setting, assisting with eyewear fitting
Job FocusFabricating and finishing lensesAssisting with eyewear adjustments and measurements

Optical Lab and Optical Technician roles are related but distinct. The Optical Lab primarily focuses on lens fabrication and finishing in a manufacturing environment, requiring specialized skills and equipment. In contrast, Optical Technicians often work directly with customers or in retail settings, assisting with eyewear fitting and adjustments. Both roles require knowledge of optics but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

How to work at an optical lab?

To work at an optical lab, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require training in lens fabrication, edging, and inspection. Familiarity with optical tools and safety procedures is important, and some positions may require certification or on-the-job training. Attention to detail and manual dexterity are essential skills for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Lab jobs in Massachusetts?

The most popular types of Optical Lab jobs in Massachusetts are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab jobs in Massachusetts?

For Optical Lab jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Lab jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Lab jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Optical Lab jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Optical Lab job openings:

Optical Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,527 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Optical Engineer I

Diffraqtion

Somerville, MA • On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Optical Engineer I

About Diffraqtion 
At Diffraqtion, we are revolutionizing AI imaging using our proprietary breakthrough quantum technology. We are a DARPA, NASA, and VC-backed startup founded by MIT & Harvard scientists and veterans in AI, Optics, and Quantum Sensing. Inspired by the eye, we are building a Quantum Camera which replaces a conventional camera and processor. Calculating at the speed of light, we achieve orders of magnitude higher resolution, processing speed and energy efficiency for cameras. 

The Role 
We are seeking a Junior Optical Engineer to help build, align, and test the advanced optical systems at the heart of our Quantum Camera. This is a hands-on, bench-first role: you will spend most of your time in the lab—mounting and aligning optics, assembling prototypes, running experiments, taking measurements, and troubleshooting hardware that does not yet behave the way the model says it should. You will work side by side with senior optical engineers and with the algorithm/software team, learning to translate their results into real optical hardware. This is an early-career role with real ownership and real mentorship: you will start by executing well-defined experiments and grow into owning subsystems of a first-of-a-kind device that will be shot into Low Earth Orbit. 
The ideal candidate has a solid foundation in physics and optics fundamentals, genuine time logged at an optical bench—from research, lab coursework, internships, or personal builds—and the curiosity and persistence to keep debugging a setup that is not cooperating. We care more about your lab instincts, care with hardware, and appetite for learning than about the length of your résumé. Formal training on our design and simulation tools will be provided.
Note: This position requires U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent resident status, or eligibility for authorization under U.S. export control regulations (ITAR/EAR).
Key Responsibilities 
  • Build, mount, and align free-space and fiber optical setups on the bench, working from procedures and with guidance from senior engineers. 
  • Assemble and integrate optical subsystems—handling, cleaning, and mounting precision optics and opto-mechanics. 
  • Run experiments and collect data using lab instrumentation such as beam profilers, power meters, cameras, spectrometers, and interferometers. 
  • Troubleshoot setups iteratively: isolate variables, find the root cause, and re-align and optimize until performance is met. 
  • Help develop and document repeatable alignment procedures, and iterate on simple optomechanical mounts and fixtures (3D-printed or machined). 
  • Support component selection and sourcing—request quotes, track lead times, and receive and inspect incoming optics. 
  • Reduce and analyze measurement data in MATLAB or Python, and compare results against optical models. 
  • Keep a rigorous lab notebook, write up test results clearly, and present findings to the team. 
  • Help build and run test setups for prototype qualification as hardware matures toward flight. 
Qualifications 
Required:
  • B.S. or M.S. in Optical Engineering, Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. 
  • 1–2 years of hands-on optical lab experience—academic research, lab coursework, co-ops, and internships all count. 
  • Demonstrated bench experience aligning free-space optics (lasers, lenses, mirrors, beamsplitters) and/or working with fiber optics. 
  • Experience with laboratory equipment such as oscilloscopes, detectors and power sources 
  • Working knowledge of optics fundamentals: imaging, diffraction, interference, polarization, and Gaussian beam propagation 
  • Comfort using MATLAB or Python for data analysis and basic modeling. 
  • Careful, organized, and safety-conscious lab habits, including laser safety awareness. 
  • Eagerness to be in the lab on-site in Somerville, MA—this is a hardware role, and the hardware lives here. 
  • Curiosity and persistence in troubleshooting—you want to know why the fringes disappeared. 
  • Excellent attention to detail and disciplined documentation habits. 
  • Eagerness to learn from senior engineers, ask questions early, and act on feedback. 
  • Ability to work independently on well-scoped tasks while collaborating across a small, cross-functional team. 
  • Clear technical communication—both written and verbal. 
Preferred: 
  • Coursework, research, or project experience with optical design and simulation software (e.g., Zemax OpticStudio, Code V, COMSOL, Lumerical). 
  • Exposure to CAD such as SolidWorks for optomechanical mounts and fixtures. 
  • Hands-on experience with telescopes, imaging optics (including folded optics), or camera systems. 
  • Familiarity with diffractive optics, spatial light modulators, adaptive optics, or interferometry. 
  • Experience coupling into and testing photonic integrated circuits. 
  • Familiarity with optical metrology methods, instrumentation, and measurement uncertainty. 
  • Practical shop skills: machining, 3D printing, soldering, or basic electronics. 
Benefits 
  • Competitive salary and equity options. 
  • Medical, dental and vision on 1st day. 
  • Company 401K match.
  • Direct, day-to-day mentorship from senior optical engineers and the founding team. 
  • A collaborative and innovative work environment with a clear path for technical growth. 
  • The chance to work on transformative technologies to be deployed in Space. 
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Diffraqtion is committed to cultivating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We highly value diversity in our current and future employees and do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.