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Optical Manager Jobs in Reading, MA (NOW HIRING)

Diffraqtion

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

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 ...

Diffraqtion

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

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 ...

Diffraqtion

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

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 ...

Diffraqtion

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

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 ...

BAE Systems

Eng II - Optical

Merrimack, NH · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

The Optical Design Engineer will develop and mature advanced EO/IR system concepts. Work will support development of next-generation Precision Pointers, Laser Systems, Imaging Systems, and other ...

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineering

Malden, MA · On-site

$134K - $174K/yr

Perform technical analysis, manage specifications, and generate design review and technical ... Lead integration and test of electro-optical/infrared systems and related hardware/software * Lead ...

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineering

Devens, MA

$143K - $185K/yr

Perform technical analysis, manage specifications, and generate design review and technical ... Lead integration and test of electro-optical/infrared systems and related hardware/software * Lead ...

BAE Systems

Eng Prin - Optical

Merrimack, NH · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

The Optical Design Engineer will develop and mature advanced EO/IR system concepts. Work will support development of next-generation Precision Pointers, Laser Systems, Imaging Systems, and other ...

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineering

Tyngsboro, MA · On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

Perform technical analysis, manage specifications, and generate design review and technical ... Lead integration and test of electro-optical/infrared systems and related hardware/software * Lead ...

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineering

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$141K - $182K/yr

Perform technical analysis, manage specifications, and generate design review and technical ... Lead integration and test of electro-optical/infrared systems and related hardware/software * Lead ...

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineering

Salisbury, MA · On-site

$136K - $176K/yr

Perform technical analysis, manage specifications, and generate design review and technical ... Lead integration and test of electro-optical/infrared systems and related hardware/software * Lead ...

Metalenz

Senior Optical Metrology Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

This position is a hands-on role, developing and managing optical set-ups for internal and external customers. You will work closely with a small team of optical engineers and collaborate closely ...

Teradyne

Optical Systems Engineer

Reading, MA · On-site

$111K - $178K/yr

Opportunity Overview As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will support the development of advanced optical and optoelectronic systems, contributing across system design, laboratory validation, and ...

Teradyne

Optical Systems Engineer

North Reading, MA · On-site

$111K - $178K/yr

Opportunity Overview As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will support the development of advanced optical and optoelectronic systems, contributing across system design, laboratory validation, and ...

Metalenz, Inc

Senior Optical Metrology Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$110K - $170K/yr

This position is a hands-on role, developing and managing optical set-ups for internal and external customers. You will work closely with a small team of optical engineers and collaborate closely ...

ANDURIL INDUSTRIES

Optical Assembly Technician

Waltham, MA · On-site

$41.35 - $54.81/hr

Align optical systems using specialized equipment, including lasers, collimators, interferometers ... Experience with AS9100 or equivalent quality management systems * Experience with 5S practices

Encode

Optical Engineer with Security Clearance

Lexington, MA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

We are seeking an Optical AI&T Engineer to design, assemble, integrate, and test advanced optical and electro-optical systems. Responsibilities include optical alignment, system integration, test ...

BAE Systems

Eng Prin - Optical

Merrimack, NH · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

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 ...

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All JobsOptical JobsOptical Manager JobsOptical Manager Jobs in Reading, MA

Optical Manager information

See Reading, MA salary details

$22.7K

$77.3K

$268.5K

How much do optical manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical manager in Reading, MA is $77,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,800.00 and $80,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical manager?

An Optical Manager is a professional who oversees the daily operations of an optical store or department, ensuring high-quality customer service and efficient workflow. Their responsibilities typically include managing staff, handling inventory, assisting with eyewear selection, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. They may also be involved in training employees, coordinating with optometrists, and implementing sales strategies. Effective Optical Managers possess strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. They play a crucial role in maintaining customer satisfaction and the overall success of the optical business.

What does an optical manager do?

Optical managers oversee the day-to-day operations of an optometrist’s office. As an optical manager, your job duties include a mix of administrative and eye care tasks, such as hiring and training staff, managing inventory, processing insurance and billing, submitting work orders for eyeglasses and contact lenses, adjusting eyeglasses, and maintaining client records. The qualifications to become an optical manager include several years of experience working in the eye care field, strong communication skills, and the ability to multitask. An associate or bachelor’s degree in business or a related field may make you a more valuable candidate for optical manager positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Manager, you need expertise in optometry practices, optical product knowledge, and management experience, typically supported by a background in opticianry or a related field. Familiarity with practice management software, lens fitting tools, and inventory systems is crucial. Strong leadership, customer service, and problem-solving skills help build effective teams and ensure client satisfaction. These capabilities are vital for delivering quality eye care, optimizing business operations, and maintaining a loyal clientele.

What are some common challenges optical managers face when balancing clinical duties with business operations?

Optical Managers often juggle both patient care and business responsibilities, which can be challenging. Balancing staff scheduling, inventory management, and customer service while ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations requires strong organizational skills. Additionally, Optical Managers frequently work to motivate their team and meet sales targets without compromising the quality of care. Successful managers develop effective communication strategies and prioritize tasks to maintain a smoothly running optical practice.

What is the difference between Optical Manager vs Optical Sales Associate?

AspectOptical ManagerOptical Sales Associate
CredentialsOptical certification, management experienceOptical knowledge, sales skills
Work EnvironmentOptical stores, eyewear clinicsRetail optical outlets, eyewear departments
Employer & IndustryOptical chains, independent optical practicesOptical retail stores, eyewear retailers
Primary ResponsibilitiesOverseeing store operations, staff management, inventory controlAssisting customers, selling eyewear, product knowledge

Optical Managers focus on store operations, staff supervision, and inventory management, requiring management skills and optical certifications. Optical Sales Associates primarily assist customers with eyewear selection and sales, emphasizing customer service and product knowledge. Both roles are essential in optical retail environments but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

More about Optical Manager jobs

What cities near Reading, MA are hiring for Optical Manager jobs?

Cities near Reading, MA with the most Optical Manager job openings:

Optical Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Manager job openings in Reading, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,250 per year, or $37.1 per hour.

Optical Engineer I

Diffraqtion

Somerville, MA • On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 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.