1

Optical Manufacturing Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders in tough tech, fusion science, and manufacturing with a ... S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. * Experience: 5+ years of optical ...

Optical Coatings Materials Scientist

Denver, CO · On-site

$140 - $170/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Optical Coatings Materials Scientist Denver, CO Engineering - Materials and Process Engineering ... Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders across fusion science, materials, and manufacturing with a ...

Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders in tough tech, fusion science, and manufacturing with a ... S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. * Experience: 5+ years of optical ...

Optical Coatings Materials Scientist

Denver, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders across fusion science, materials, and manufacturing with a ... As a Optical Coatings Materials Scientist in the Materials & Process Engineering (M&P) Department ...

Optical Coatings Materials Scientist

Denver, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders across fusion science, materials, and manufacturing with a ... As a Optical Coatings Materials Scientist in the Materials & Process Engineering (M&P) Department ...

Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders in tough tech, fusion science, and manufacturing with a ... S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. * Experience: 5+ years of optical ...

Optical Coatings Materials Scientist

Denver, CO · On-site

$140 - $170/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders across fusion science, materials, and manufacturing with a ... Work closely with the optics and laser engineering teams to define coating requirements ...

Sales Associate Target Optical

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and ...

Senior Operations Manager

Boulder, CO

$134K - $195K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Oversee the maintenance and calibration of precision manufacturing equipment used in optics production * Stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and advancements in optics * Cross-Department ...

Sales Engineer - Optics & Photonics

Frederick, CO · On-site

$65K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We provide high-performance polarization components and hard-to-find optical solutions through both our standard product catalog and custom design and manufacturing services. Our products reflect ...

Photonics Engineer II

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At Thorlabs, we design and manufacture components, instruments, and systems that transform the ... The role involves developing and releasing new products, developing internal optical metrology ...

Photonics Engineer II

Lafayette, CO

$110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At Thorlabs, we design and manufacture components, instruments, and systems that transform the ... The role involves developing and releasing new products, developing internal optical metrology ...

Manufacturing Production Operator

Colorado Springs, CO

$20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Position Summary As a Manufacturing Production Operator, you will support the production and testing of optical products by preparing optical engines for testing, transferring components between ...

Manufacturing Production Operator

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform measurements, alignment, and testing of optical cable assemblies and components. * Follow ... Maintain workflow and productivity in a lean manufacturing environment. * Consistently uphold ...

Showing results 41-60

Optical Manufacturing information

See Colorado salary details

$18

$26

$33

How much do optical manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical manufacturing in Colorado is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.51 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical manufacturing job?

An Optical Manufacturing job involves producing precision optical components such as lenses, mirrors, and prisms for industries like aerospace, medical devices, and telecommunications. Workers in this field use specialized equipment to cut, grind, polish, and coat optical materials to meet exact specifications. They may also inspect finished products for quality and ensure they meet industry standards. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and knowledge of optical fabrication processes.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities in optical manufacturing?

In Optical Manufacturing, entry-level roles often serve as stepping stones to more specialized positions, such as process technician, quality assurance specialist, or optical engineer. With additional experience and training, employees can advance into supervisory or management roles, or become experts in areas like process optimization or product development. Many companies encourage continuous learning, offering in-house training and support for professional certifications. Career growth may also include transitioning into related fields, such as research and development or technical sales, leveraging your manufacturing expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in optical manufacturing?

To thrive in Optical Manufacturing, you need strong technical aptitude in precision measurement, mechanical assembly, and quality control, often supported by a background in optics, engineering, or manufacturing technology. Familiarity with tools like spectrometers, interferometers, CNC machines, and cleanroom procedures is crucial, and certifications such as IPC or ASQ may be beneficial. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective problem-solving are standout soft skills in this field. These abilities ensure the accuracy and quality of optical products, which are vital for applications in industries like healthcare, defense, and telecommunications.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Optical Manufacturing jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Manufacturing jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Optical Manufacturing jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Optical Manufacturing job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Manufacturing job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,402 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Sr Optical Test and Measurement Engineer with Security Clearance

Sierra Nevada Corporation

Lone Tree, CO • On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Sierra Nevada Corporation rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Do you have a passion to learn and test new ideas? We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Sr Optical Test and Measurement Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing, performing, and analyzing optical tests on components, systems, and devices. You will work closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure that optical products meet required specifications and industry standards. In addition to hands-on laboratory work, you will play a key role in processing and interpreting measurement data, identifying trends, and providing actionable insights to drive product improvements. You will support the engineering team through advanced data analysis and assisting simulations to predict performance, validate designs, and troubleshoot potential issues. Your ability to bridge experimental results with simulation and modeling will be essential in supporting the full product lifecycle, from initial concept through to production and quality control. The ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance), Aviation, and Security (IAS) business area is a leader in ISR and aviation, it is a leading prime manned and unmanned aircraft systems integrator for innovative, high-performance ISR and aviation systems. Its end-to-end Command, Control, Computers, Communications and Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities encompass design, integration, test, certification, ground/flight training and complete logistics support. IAS tailors solutions to customer cost, performance, and schedule requirements and designs to consistently exceed expectations - with an unrivaled record of on time and on (or under) budget deliveries. Responsibilities: * Assist in setting up and conducting optical tests on components, systems, and devices under the guidance of senior engineers.
* Operate and maintain optical test equipment such as spectrometers, power meters, and microscopes.
* Collect, organize, and document measurement data accurately and efficiently.
* Perform basic data analysis to identify trends and discrepancies, and prepare summary reports for review by the engineering team.
* Support the development and validation of test procedures by following established protocols and providing feedback for improvements.
* Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to troubleshoot issues and verify compliance with specifications.
* Participate in maintaining and calibrating optical test equipment to ensure reliable results.
* Assist with optical simulations and modeling tasks to support product development and problem-solving
* Contribute to general laboratory upkeep, organization, and safety practices. Qualifications You Must Have: * Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field such as Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Engineering.
* 10+ years of experience in research and development or a related field, with demonstrated leadership experience.
* Higher level relevant degree may substitute for experience.
* Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and advanced scientific software.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Knowledge of scientific principles and practices.
* Experience in designing and conducting scientific experiments.
* Documented record of accomplishments in the relevant field.
* Ability to solve moderate to complex analytical problems and provide solutions that meet technical objectives.
* Ability to obtain/maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance is required. Qualifications We Prefer: * Research experience in an optics laboratory environment
* Experience using/troubleshooting vacuum systems
* Experience operating and aligning Class IV laser systems
* Knowledge and understanding of opto-mechanical assemblies Essential Functions: * Ability to work at a computer for extended periods, requiring regular use of hand and finger dexterity.
* Conduct experiments, requiring the ability to stand for extended periods and handle laboratory equipment.
* Occasionally lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 lbs.
* Work in a laboratory environment, potentially exposed to hazardous materials and requiring adherence to safety protocols.
* Travel may be required to attend conferences, meetings, or conduct field research.
* Ability to work in an office or hybrid environment, as needed. This posting will be open for application for a minimum of 5 days and may be extended based on business needs. Estimated Starting Salary Range: $124,771.42 - $171,560.71. Compensation varies depending on a wide array of factors, such as candidates' key skills, relevant work experience, and education/training/certifications. The disclosed range estimate may be adjusted for any applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. SNC offers annual incentive pay based upon performance that is commensurate with the level of the position. SNC offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more . IMPORTANT NOTICE:
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use. Learn more about the background check process for Security Clearances. SNC is a global leader in aerospace and national security committed to moving the American Dream forward. We're known and respected for our mission and execution focus, agility, and disruptive and rapid innovation. We provide leading edge technologies and transformative solutions that support our nation's most critical security needs. If you are mission-focused, thrive in collaborative environments, and want to make our country stronger with state-of-the-art technologies that safeguard freedom, join our team! SNC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment free of discrimination. Employment decisions are made based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law.

What Sierra Nevada Corporation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom