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Optical Manufacturing Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Support expansion of manufacturing capabilities for more complex and higher-performing optical systems * Collaborate across R&D, development, and manufacturing teams to advance process readiness

Operate assigned optical manufacturing equipment in accordance with manufacturing procedures, build documents, and safety requirements. * Perform non-routine setups of precision optical components ...

Tool Maker

Rochester, NY · On-site

$26.25 - $33.75/hr

Design, fabricate, and maintain precision tooling, jigs, fixtures, and molds used in optical component manufacturing. * Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications to ...

Package and ship optical components. * Operate equipment to manufacture high volume production parts. * Clean and visually inspect diamond turned lenses. * Inspect lenses using metrology equipment.

Shape the future of advanced optics manufacturing in this hands-on leadership role within Corning's Advanced Optics surface finishing and optical fabrication development group . You will work closely ...

These individuals will need to be able to operate optical manufacturing equipment and inspect the optics for surface quality and defects. Experience using LAS Opto-alignment systems is a must.

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Optical Manufacturing information

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How much do optical manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical manufacturing in Rochester, NY is $24.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $27.50 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 is the highest paying job in manufacturing?

In manufacturing, the highest paying roles are often executive positions such as plant managers, operations directors, or manufacturing engineers with specialized skills. Senior-level roles that require extensive experience, technical expertise, and management responsibilities tend to offer the highest salaries in the industry.

What is optical manufacturing?

Optical manufacturing involves producing precision optical components such as lenses, mirrors, and prisms used in devices like cameras, microscopes, and telescopes. The process includes grinding, polishing, coating, and assembling optical elements, often requiring specialized tools and quality control measures. Workers in this field need technical skills and knowledge of optical materials and manufacturing standards.

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.

Do you need a degree to be an optical lab tech?

An optical lab technician typically does not need a college degree but should have a high school diploma or equivalent. Training is often provided on the job, and skills in handling optical equipment and understanding lens prescriptions are important. Certification is not required but can enhance job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Optical Manufacturing position, and why are they important?

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 is an optical manufacturing technician?

An optical manufacturing technician is responsible for assembling, inspecting, and testing optical components such as lenses and prisms used in devices like cameras, microscopes, and telescopes. They operate precision equipment, follow detailed specifications, and often require knowledge of optics, materials, and quality control standards. The role typically involves working in cleanroom environments and may require certifications or training in optical manufacturing processes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Manufacturing jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Optical Manufacturing jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Manufacturing jobs in Rochester, NY? For Optical Manufacturing jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Manufacturing jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Manufacturing jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Optical Manufacturing jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Optical Manufacturing job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Manufacturing job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,981 per year, or $25 per hour.
Precision Optics Technician (Advanced)

Precision Optics Technician (Advanced)

L3Harris Technologies

Rochester, NY

$54K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Precision Optics Technician (Advanced)

Job Code: 39306

Job Location: Rochester, NY

Job Schedule: 5/8 Mon-Fri

Job Description:

L3Harris's Optics department in Rochester, NY is seeking a dedicated Optics Manufacturing Technician to support the production of top-tier optical components for advanced astronomical, high-energy laser, and Earth imaging applications. You will work closely with engineers, operate precise optical equipment, and inspect components to ensure exceptional quality. Join a team of innovators in precision optics and contribute to groundbreaking projects. If you have a keen eye for detail and a passion for optical technology, apply now to advance your career with us in this exciting and dynamic field.

Essential Functions:

Operate assigned optical manufacturing equipment in accordance with manufacturing procedures, build documents, and safety requirements
Perform non-routine setups of precision optical components and assemblies to verify conformance to specifications and drawings
Measure critical dimensions using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and other precision instruments
Interpret drawings, specifications, and work instructions to validate manufacturing criteria
Support development trials and process experiments under engineer direction and document results clearly and accurately
Collaborate with manufacturing and engineering teams to communicate quality issues and support root cause investigations
Adjust manufacturing equipment parameters within defined bounds to meet requirements, understand cause/effect, and troubleshoot process issues to restore process stability
Ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain a clean and organized work environment
Follow Total Productive Maintenance guidelines for manufacturing equipment and ensure calibration status is current

Qualifications:

High School Diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 6 years of prior relevant experience; Or, 2 years post-Secondary/Associates Degree with a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience
Ability to perform advanced setups and execute complex work across multiple fabrication processes
Ability to troubleshoot common process problems and restore stable execution within defined process limits
Ability to apply in-process measurement and verification requirements with sound judgment
Ability to support less experienced technicians and communicate setup, handling, and process expectations clearly

Preferred Additional Skills:

Experience with multiple optics fabrication processes and non-routine setups
Practical understanding of how wheel condition, dressing, slurry or coolant, and fixture setup affect process stability and part quality
Experience supporting trials, process improvements, or floor-level corrective actions
Experience in a quality system environment (e.g., documented processes, sign-offs, traceability)

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in New York state is $54,500-$101,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

The application window for this requisition is anticipated to close September 09, 2026.

#LI-CG1

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

Employment Type: Full-Time