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Optical Metrology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Metrology Technician

Boulder, CO · On-site

$23 - $29.64/hr

We are presently looking for a Metrology Technician to perform a wide range of measurements on ... Experienced in Optical and Laser-based testing * Familiar with the setup of the more complex ...

Metrology Equipment Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$106K - $142K/yr

Small-Spot XRFs, Large-Spot XRFs, Interferometric Metrology Systems like Zygo/Unifire, Optical & Laser Inspections Systems, Reflectometry and Ellipsometry Metrology Systems, AFM and Magnetic ...

Optical Technician

Rochester, NY · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Perform optical metrology (interferometric, surface roughness, optical smartscope, beam deviation, etc.). * Coordinate with SME's on difficult or problem projects. * Ability to operate machines ...

Experience in lens design, optical metrology, tolerance analysis, especially multi group optics such as zoom lensExperience in Stray light analysisExperience in lens characterization methodology and ...

Optical Technician

Rochester, NY · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Perform optical metrology (interferometric, surface roughness, optical smartscope, beam deviation, etc.). * Coordinate with SME's on difficult or problem projects. * Ability to operate machines ...

Experience with lens design, optical metrology, tolerance analysis, or similar experience. 3+ years relevant industry experienceExperience in Stray light analysisExperience in lens characterization ...

Optical CNC Machinist

Keene, NH · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Required Skills & Experience: -2+ years of optical CNC machining experience -Experience with diamond turning machines and programming -Strong metrology/measurement experience -Ability to work with ...

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MTS Optical Engineer

Denville, NJ · On-site

$123K - $160K/yr

For over 50 years, Zygo Corporation in Middlefield, CT, has been a global leader in designing and manufacturing advanced optical metrology systems, ultra-precise optical components, and complex ...

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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.
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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 Integration & Metrology Lead - TeraWave

Optical Integration & Metrology Lead - TeraWave

Blue Origin

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$121K - $169K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Blue Origin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

-

The Emerging Systems business unit at Blue Origin is pioneering the future of space-based communications withTeraWave, a revolutionary satellite communications network designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6Tbpsanywhere on Earth. This multi-orbit constellation will consist of 5,408 optically interconnected satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), providing enterprise-grade connectivity for critical operations worldwide.

The Optical Integration & Metrology Lead will serve as the technical authority for the alignment, metrology, and as-built modeling ofan opticalpayload. This roleis responsible fordeveloping production-grade alignment workflows that are robust, repeatable, and capable of meeting manufacturing requirements. You will own the metrology processes that guarantee our systems meet stringent Line of Sight (LOS) and Wavefront Error (WFE) performance requirements.

Special Mentions:

  • Travel expectations:Travel may berequiredfor supplier visits,technical reviews, and production site coordination.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Production Alignment & Process Development

  • Author and execute alignment procedures for the telescope, relay optics, and fiber I/O, with a focus on Design for Assembly (DFA) to minimize process steps

  • Define align-to tolerances and verification steps with clear pass/fail criteria for production operators

  • Lead hands-on optical alignment in a cleanroom using interferometry, autocollimators, and other precision metrology equipment

Metrology, MSA, and DFM

  • Establish metrology datums and fiducials and develop measurement uncertainty budgets

  • Lead Measurement System Analysis (MSA) and Gage R&R (GR&R) campaigns to qualify production metrology instruments, ensuring measurement reliability

  • Implement Statistical Process Control (SPC) for critical alignment parameters tomonitorprocess capability and drive continuous improvement

As-Built Modeling and Test

  • Build andmaintainoptical as-built models, correlating metrology data to optical performance to refine production tolerances

  • Support pre/post-environment optical re-verification after vibration/shock/thermal-vacuum (TVAC) testing

  • Drive root-cause analysis for alignment yield issues and partner with engineering to implement robust solutions

Minimum Qualifications:

  • BS/MS in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics

  • 5+ years in optical alignment and metrology for precision or space optics

  • Hands-onproficiencywith interferometry, autocollimators, and other optical metrology tools

  • Strong understanding of GR&R, MSA, SPC, and measurement uncertainty analysis

Preferred Qualifications:

  • ProficiencywithZemaxOpticStudioor Code V for tolerance and as-built analysis

  • Experience with automated alignment systems, fiber coupling, and polarization metrology

  • Prior experience scaling an optical alignment process from prototype to production

Why Blue Origin:

At Blue Origin, we are driven by our company motto, GradatimFerociter, meaning "Step by Step,Ferociously." We believe that humanity's future is in space, andwe'recommitted to developing the technologies that will make that vision a reality. As an Optical Integration & Metrology Lead,you'llplay a crucial role in ensuring our optical systems meet the exacting standardsrequiredfor space operations, directly contributing to our mission of building a road to space for the benefit of Earth.

We are building a team of passionate builders. Job descriptions are not perfect checklists. If you are excited about this mission but your experiencedoesn'talign perfectly with every qualification, we encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this or other roles.


Compensation Range for:

CA applicants is $121,023.00 - $169,432.20 WA applicants is $121,023.00 - $169,432.20

Other site ranges may differ

Culture Statement

Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S.as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check

  • Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check

  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation

  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.

  • Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

  • Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.

  • Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)

  • Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.

  • Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.

Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us atEEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.


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About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000