1

Optical Laboratory Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Eng Sr - Optical

Boulder, CO · On-site

$97K - $164K/yr

Work is performed in an office, laboratory, production floor, or cleanroom, outdoors or remote ... We continually pioneer ways to innovate spacecraft, mission payloads, optical systems, and other ...

Advanced degree a plus * 5-8+ years optical design experience * 4+ years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment Qualifications * Experience in the design of high-numerical ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO

$150K - $175K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Advanced degree a plus * 5-8+ years optical design experience * 4+ years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment Qualifications * Experience in the design of high-numerical ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Advanced degree a plus * 5-8+ years optical design experience * 4+ years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment Qualifications * Experience in the design of high-numerical ...

Principal Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Advanced degree a plus * 10+ years optical design experience * 7+ years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment * Experience bringing a complex optical system from ...

Principal Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO

$160K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Advanced degree a plus * 10+ years optical design experience * 7+ years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment * Experience bringing a complex optical system from ...

Advanced degree a plus * 10+ years optical design experience * 7+ years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment * Experience bringing a complex optical system from ...

Eng Prin

Westminster, CO · On-site

$118K - $200K/yr

Work in a collaborative environment with other optical engineers to develop novel state-of-the art ... Work is performed in an office, laboratory, production floor, or cleanroom, outdoors or remote ...

Eng Prin

Boulder, CO · On-site

$118K - $200K/yr

Work in a collaborative environment with other optical engineers to develop novel state-of-the art ... Work is performed in an office, laboratory, production floor, or cleanroom, outdoors or remote ...

Principal Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$190 - $220/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Optical Engineering /Full-Time /On-site Xcimer Energy leverages decades of research on Inertial ... laboratory and in situ test plans to validate performance and closed‑loop operation - Work ...

Principal Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$190K - $220K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Define laboratory and in situ test plans to validate performance and closed loop operation * Work ... Proven ability to work directly with external vendors on custom optical and electro optical systems

Principal Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$190K - $220K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Define laboratory and in situ test plans to validate performance and closed loop operation * Work ... Proven ability to work directly with external vendors on custom optical and electro optical systems

Define laboratory and in situ test plans to validate performance and closed loop operation * Work ... Proven ability to work directly with external vendors on custom optical and electro optical systems

Principal Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$190 - $220/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Define laboratory and in situ test plans to validate performance and closed loop operation * Work ... Proven ability to work directly with external vendors on custom optical and electro‑optical ...

Principal Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$190 - $220/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Define laboratory and in situ test plans to validate performance and closed loop operation * Work ... Proven ability to work directly with external vendors on custom optical and electro‑optical ...

Principal Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$190 - $220/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Define laboratory and in situ test plans to validate performance and closed loop operation * Work ... Proven ability to work directly with external vendors on custom optical and electro‑optical ...

Showing results 41-60

Optical Laboratory information

See Colorado salary details

$12

$22

$59

How much do optical laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical laboratory in Colorado is $22.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $21.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical laboratory?

An optical laboratory is a specialized facility where eyeglass lenses and other optical devices are created, customized, and assembled according to prescriptions from eye care professionals. Technicians in optical labs use advanced equipment to cut, grind, polish, and fit lenses into eyeglass frames, ensuring that each pair meets the precise vision needs of the customer. Optical labs may also produce contact lenses, safety glasses, and specialty optics for various industries. The work in an optical laboratory requires attention to detail and knowledge of optical materials and technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an optical laboratory role?

To thrive in an Optical Laboratory role, you need a solid understanding of optics, precision measurement, and lens fabrication, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with lens edging machines, lensometers, and laboratory management software is typically required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for success in this environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the accurate production of optical products and maintaining high standards of quality and customer satisfaction.

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

Professionals working in an Optical Laboratory often encounter challenges such as maintaining high precision in lens fabrication, managing a fast-paced workflow with tight deadlines, and ensuring strict adherence to safety and quality standards. Effective communication with team members and attention to detail are crucial for minimizing errors during the lens grinding, coating, and fitting processes. Regular training, organization, and the use of updated technology can help address these challenges and contribute to a productive and error-free work environment.

What is the difference between Optical Laboratory vs Optician?

AspectOptical LaboratoryOptician
CredentialsMay require certifications in lab work or optical technologyOften requires state licensing or certification
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, working with lenses and equipmentRetail or clinical setting, interacting with customers
Job FocusFabricating and assembling lenses and optical componentsFitting, adjusting, and dispensing eyewear to patients
Industry UsageManufacturing and production of optical productsCustomer service and eyewear sales

While both roles are essential in the optical industry, an Optical Laboratory primarily focuses on fabricating lenses and optical components in a lab setting, whereas an Optician interacts directly with customers to fit and dispense eyewear. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations within the optical field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Laboratory jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Optical Laboratory jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Laboratory jobs in Colorado?

For Optical Laboratory jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Optical Laboratory job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,686 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Principal Optical Engineer - Airborne Payloads with Security Clearance

BAE Systems

Westminster, CO • On-site

$118K - $200K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Description 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: * Work in a collaborative environment with other optical engineers to develop novel state-of-the art optical designs for space based and airborne optical systems.
* Help BAE Systems Space and Mission Systems (SMS) advance our technology and develop innovative optical systems for airborne applications designed for science, defense, intelligence, and commercial customers.
* Support Advanced Program development by contributing to proposals, RFIs, and writing white papers.
* Lead or engage with teams of engineers during optical sub-system development, integration, and alignment in a cross disciplinary environment.
* Participate in and present at design reviews.
* Assist with the procurement and validation of state-of the art optical components.
* Work hands-on with optical hardware as well as perform analytical work and technology development.
* 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 three or more 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.
* A current, active Secret security clearance is required. * Minimum of 3 years or more of space based or airborne instrument optical hardware experience in industry.
* Demonstrate mastery of optical alignment of complex systems, including reflective and refractive designs for space based or airborne optical instruments.
* Knowledge of optical fabrication technology to support procurement of optics from 3 mm to meter class. * Proficiency with Optical Design/Analysis software (such as CodeV, Zemax, FRED, etc)
* Proficiency with optical error budgeting
* Experience leading technical efforts.
* Excellent communication skills, as well as interpersonal skills.
* Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools. * Ability to work at all Colorado campuses (Boulder, Broomfield and Westminster) for extended periods of time. #LI-GJ1 Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills * An Optical Engineering degree. * A Master's degree or PhD in Optical Engineering. 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 the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Space & Mission Systems is a leading provider of national defense and civil space applications, advanced remote sensing, scientific and tactical systems for government and commercial customers. We continually pioneer ways to innovate spacecraft, mission payloads, optical systems, and other defense and civil capabilities. Powered by endlessly curious people with an unwavering mission focus, we continually discover ways to enable our customers to perform beyond expectation and protect what matters most. 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. Multiple positions may be available on this opening.

What BAE Systems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom