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Optical Metrology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optical Metrology Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$112K - $155K/yr

Analyze optical component surface maps to assess complex shapes using Zernike and asphere polynomials. Create and document metrology methods and test procedures for transfer to manufacturing. Train ...

Optical Metrology Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$95K - $131K/yr

Analyze optical component surface maps to assess complex shapes using Zernike and asphere polynomials. Create and document metrology methods and test procedures for transfer to manufacturing. Train ...

Apple's Display Metrology System Engineer is a terrific position for someone passionate about display technology and optical metrology. Be part of the Display Technology team that fosters a ...

Apple's Display Metrology System Engineer is a terrific position for someone passionate about display technology and optical metrology. Be part of the Display Technology team that fosters a ...

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Optical Metrology information

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How much do optical metrology jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical metrology in the United States is $17.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Metrology Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Metrology Specialist, you need a solid background in physics or engineering, expertise in optics, and experience with precision measurement techniques, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with advanced metrology tools such as interferometers, spectrometers, and specialized software like MATLAB or LabVIEW is typical, and certifications in quality control or ISO standards can be advantageous. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for interpreting results and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These capabilities ensure accurate measurements and data analysis, which are crucial for quality assurance and innovation in optical manufacturing and research.

What is the difference between Optical Metrology vs Mechanical Inspector?

AspectOptical MetrologyMechanical Inspector
Required credentialsTechnical certifications, sometimes engineering degreesTechnical training, certifications in inspection techniques
Work environmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, research facilitiesFactories, production lines, quality control departments
Industry usagePrecision measurement, quality assurance, researchInspection, defect detection, compliance verification

Optical Metrology focuses on precise measurement of objects using optical instruments, often requiring technical certifications and working in labs or manufacturing settings. Mechanical Inspectors primarily perform physical inspections and quality checks on manufactured parts, working directly on production floors. Both roles are essential for quality assurance but differ in methods and environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in optical metrology roles, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in optical metrology often encounter challenges such as maintaining high measurement accuracy in environments subject to vibration, temperature fluctuations, or contamination. Addressing these issues typically involves using advanced isolation techniques, regular calibration of equipment, and strict adherence to cleanroom protocols. Collaboration with engineers and quality assurance teams is also essential to troubleshoot and refine measurement processes, ensuring reliable and precise data. Staying up-to-date with technological advancements and industry standards is key to overcoming these challenges.

What is optical metrology?

Optical metrology is the science and technology of using light to measure physical properties such as distance, surface shape, refractive index, and more. It involves non-contact measurement techniques that utilize lasers, interferometers, cameras, and other optical instruments to obtain precise and accurate data. Optical metrology is widely used in fields like manufacturing, quality control, and research because it allows for high-speed and high-resolution measurements without damaging the object being measured.
More about Optical Metrology jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Metrology jobs? Cities with the most Optical Metrology job openings:
What states have the most Optical Metrology jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Metrology jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Metrology jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Metrology jobs are:
Infographic showing various Optical Metrology job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,574 per year, or $17.6 per hour.
Optical Metrology Engineer

Optical Metrology Engineer

Corning

Fairport, NY • On-site

$112K - $155K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 124 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Requisition Number: 74119

The company built on breakthroughs. 
Join us.           
       

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible. 

How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations- not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company,and the world, forward. 

At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more. 

Come break through with us. 

Corning's businesses are ever-evolving to best serve our customers, industries, and consumers. Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical communications, display, automotive, and solar markets. We are changing the world with: 

  • Trusted products that accelerate drug discovery, development, and delivery to save lives
  • Damage-resistant cover glass to enhance the devices that keep us connected
  • Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light
  • Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences 
  • Auto glass and ceramics to drive cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation 
  • Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy solutions

Scope of Position:
Devise, build, and maintain instrumentation and comprehensive test methods to measure and analyze ultra-precise optical assemblies.
Day to Day Responsibilities:
Collaborate with multi-disciplined project teams to design, integrate, and qualify custom metrology equipment.
Work as Technical Lead of new programs

Design (or specify for purchase) optical test methods and instrumentation to measure various parameters of optical assemblies

Use a wide array of in-house and commercial metrology and software to assess wavefront, polarization,

Read and interpret optical drawings containing optical tolerancing and ISO specifications.
Analyze optical component surface maps to assess complex shapes using Zernike and asphere polynomials.  
Create and document metrology methods and test procedures for transfer to manufacturing.
Train manufacturing personnel to execute test and measurement tasks.


Travel Requirements:
5%, domestic & international. Typical travel includes training, networking opportunities, customer visits, conferences and trade shows, and collaborating with teams at other Corning locations as required.
Hours of work:
Typical work hours, M-F, 8am-5pm. Extra and off hours may be required during times of heightened project activity in order to meet deliverables
This position requires on-site work at one of two locations in the greater Rochester NY area
Required Education & Experience:
B.S. in Optics or Physics
5-15 years in designing instrumentation for testing precision optical components systems.

Hands-on metrology laboratory experience required, as is industrial experience in optical metrology.  Must be familiar with optical shop phase measuring interferometers.  
Ability to function on a product development team of multi-disciplinary engineers.
Experience and understanding of geometrical optics and optical test methods.
Ability to read and interpret drawings with geometrical dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&R
Must have strong presentation and technical writing skills to enable communication within the program team and with internal and external customers

 

Preferred Skills & Experience:

M.S. in Optics or Physics

Experience with interferometry, wavefront sensing, deflectometry, profilometry, precision tooling, polarization/polarimetry, etc

Experience with aspheric measurement methods (sub-aperture stitching, null testing, CGH design and implementation, etc) a plus.

Familiarity with optical and stylus profilometry, roughness measurement, microscopy.
Familiarity with gauge study and measurement uncertainty assessment.
Proficiency in Excel is required.

Matlab, Python, or other analytical software applications is desired.  

Proficiency with phase measuring software from Zygo, 4D, Apre, QED a plus.

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.


The range for this position is $112,902.00 - $155,240.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. 

A job that shapes a life. 

Corning offers you the total package. 

Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.

  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.  
  • Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions. 

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.

Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.


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