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Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

At BAE Systems we design, develop and manufacture highly sophisticated EO/IR solutions that service ... Optics, Laser, Material Science, Precision Pointing, Optical Lens Systems, Imaging Systems

Leidos

Senior Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

The candidate should also be proficient in optical tolerancing, athermalization analysis, and lens manufacturing methods and drawing standards. Experience in stray light control, Structural Thermal ...

Leidos

Senior Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

The candidate should also be proficient in optical tolerancing, athermalization analysis, and lens manufacturing methods and drawing standards. Experience in stray light control, Structural Thermal ...

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Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech information

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How much do optical lens manufacturing tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lens manufacturing tech in the United States is $25.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech, you need a solid understanding of optics, precision measurement, and quality control, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with lens fabrication machinery, surface profilers, and inspection tools such as interferometers is typically required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and problem-solving abilities are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing high-quality lenses that meet exact specifications and industry standards.

What is the difference between Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech vs Optical Lens Assembler?

AspectOptical Lens Manufacturing TechOptical Lens Assembler
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in opticsHigh school diploma, basic training in assembly
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, clean rooms, precision labsAssembly lines, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageDesign, produce, and test optical lensesAssemble lens components into final products

Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech focuses on producing and testing optical lenses, requiring technical skills and certifications. In contrast, Optical Lens Assemblers primarily handle the assembly of lens components. Both roles are essential in the optical manufacturing industry but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What does an Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech do?

An Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech is responsible for producing, assembling, and inspecting optical lenses used in products such as eyeglasses, cameras, microscopes, and scientific instruments. They operate specialized machinery to cut, grind, polish, and coat lenses, ensuring they meet precise specifications and quality standards. Technicians may also perform maintenance on equipment, troubleshoot production issues, and record measurements. Their work is essential for creating high-quality optical components used in various industries.

What are some typical challenges Optical Lens Manufacturing Techs face during the production process?

Optical Lens Manufacturing Techs often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise tolerances during grinding and polishing, ensuring lenses are free from defects like scratches or contamination, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. The role requires a keen eye for detail and the ability to follow strict quality control procedures. Additionally, techs must adapt to evolving technologies and materials while collaborating closely with engineers and quality assurance teams to meet exacting specifications.
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What cities are hiring for Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech jobs? Cities with the most Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech job openings:
What job categories do people searching Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech jobs are:
Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lens Manufacturing Tech job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,688 per year, or $25.3 per hour.
Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

BAE Systems

Austin, TX • On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

BAE Systems rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description


Thank you for your interest in BAE Systems! This opening is included as part of our June 2026 Countermeasure & Electromagnetic Attack Solutions Engineering Hiring Event. While we encourage all interested professionals to apply, please note that this is a selection-based interview event for candidates whose skills and experience match our hiring needs. If your background and skill set match these needs, we will reach out with next steps. If selected for an interview, specific opportunities based on your interests, experience, and skill set will be discussed with the hiring team. For candidates not local to the southern NH or Austin, TX areas, virtual interviews will be accommodated.
BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Senior Principal Optical Engineer to join our EO/IR Capability Group. This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical and Laser specialists dedicated to developing innovative hardware solutions that drive the success of our program portfolio.
BAE Systems is experiencing continued growth in our Electro-optic/Infrared (EO/IR) markets, and we are seeking experienced, highly motivated Engineers to join our team. The qualified applicants will support assignments in EO/IR systems, precision pointing, Lens design and other complex EO/IR product design/development at our southern New Hampshire locations. At BAE Systems we design, develop and manufacture highly sophisticated EO/IR solutions that service a variety of product areas for government and commercial applications.
The Senior Principal Optical Engineer will develop and mature advanced EO system concepts. This will include the design, analysis, and measurement of optical subsystems. Responsibilities include the development of optical subsystem schedule/budgets, design and analysis of optical subsystems, and the testing and validation of prototype assemblies. The work environment is fast-paced and presents many technical challenges as well as significant growth opportunities. Successful technical contributors will be comfortable working in multi-disciplinary teams, present current program work to customers as well as contribute to proposals for new projects.
  • The successful candidate will have an in-depth understanding in one or more of the following: Optics, Laser, Material Science, Precision Pointing, Optical Lens Systems, Imaging Systems
  • Experience designing optical systems, specifically for lens designs and other complex EO/IR optical designs
  • Experience with sensitivity analysis and other optical system analysis
  • Experience Integrating and testing hardware and optical components in a laboratory environment
  • Experience/ability/knowledge working with Focal Plane Arrays (FPA), microbolometers, EO/IR cameras, thermal imaging or sensor technologies
  • Experience presenting proposals/designs to customers (internal and external)
  • Ability to collect, analyze, and document EO/IR hardware requirements
  • Ability to support proposals through labor estimations and written technical plans / architecture.
  • Experience allocating system requirements to subsystem requirements & creating supplier specifications for custom optical designs
  • Willingness to provide manufacturing support for optical imaging test equipment
  • Effective oral and written communication skills, strong interpersonal skills and a positive, can-do attitude

Hybrid: Onsite 3 days per week
About BAE Systems Electronic 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. Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and commercial electronics. Exploiting every electron, we push the limits of what is possible, giving our customers the edge and our employees opportunities to change the world. Our products and capabilities can be found everywhere - from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space. At our core are more than 14,000 highly talented Electronic Systems employees with the brightest minds in the industry, we make an impact - for our customers and the communities we serve.
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.
Required Skills and Education
  • BS degree in Optical Engineering or a related technical field
  • Experience in designing optical subassemblies
  • Experience working with and designing for electro-optical systems
  • Understanding EO/IR Systems

Preferred Skills and Education
  • Ability to obtain a Secret Clearance

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