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Optical Microscopy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LLNL

Materials Scientist - Staff Scientist

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.8K/wk

Substantial experience with optical microscopy techniques. * Substantial experience using computerized laboratory and analytical systems to acquire, analyze, track, and communicate scientific data ...

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Optical Microscopy information

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How much do optical microscopy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical microscopy in the United States is $21.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a job in microscopy?

To get a job in microscopy, candidates typically need a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in biology, physics, or engineering, along with hands-on experience using optical microscopes and related imaging tools. Developing skills in sample preparation, image analysis, and familiarity with microscopy software can improve employability. Certifications or specialized training in microscopy techniques may also enhance job prospects.

What is optical microscopy?

Optical microscopy is a technique that uses visible light and a system of lenses to magnify small objects, allowing scientists and researchers to observe details that are not visible to the naked eye. It is commonly used in biology, materials science, and medical research to examine cells, tissues, and other specimens. Optical microscopes can provide magnifications of up to around 1,000–2,000 times and are valued for their ability to study living samples and dynamic processes.

How does an Optical Microscopy Specialist typically collaborate with other scientists and team members in a research setting?

Optical Microscopy Specialists frequently work alongside biologists, chemists, and engineers to support research projects by imaging samples, optimizing protocols, and troubleshooting equipment. Collaboration often involves interpreting imaging results together, providing technical training, and sharing insights on sample preparation. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as microscopy data often informs key experimental decisions and publications. Specialists may also work with facility managers to maintain and upgrade instruments, ensuring reliable access for all users.

What are some careers that use microscopes?

Careers that use microscopes include roles such as optical microscopy technicians, research scientists, biomedical researchers, materials scientists, and quality control analysts. These professionals often work in laboratories, hospitals, or manufacturing environments, utilizing microscopes to analyze samples, conduct experiments, or ensure product quality.

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

To thrive as an Optical Microscopy Specialist, you need a solid background in biology, physics, or a related field, with expertise in microscopy techniques and sample preparation. Familiarity with advanced imaging systems (such as confocal or fluorescence microscopes), image analysis software, and sometimes relevant certifications are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital for generating high-quality imaging data, troubleshooting equipment, and effectively collaborating with multidisciplinary research teams.

What is the difference between Optical Microscopy vs Electron Microscopy?

AspectOptical MicroscopyElectron Microscopy
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in biology, chemistry, or related fields; certification not mandatoryRequires specialized training; often a degree in materials science, physics, or related fields; certifications may be needed
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, educational institutionsHigh-vacuum chambers, advanced research labs, industrial settings
Industry UsageBiology, medicine, materials science, educationMaterials science, nanotechnology, semiconductor industry, advanced research

Optical microscopy is commonly used for biological and educational purposes, providing visualization at the cellular level. Electron microscopy offers higher resolution imaging of nanostructures and materials, suitable for advanced scientific research. Both roles require specialized knowledge but differ significantly in complexity, environment, and application.

What do optical microscopes do?

Optical microscopy is a key skill for professionals in the field, allowing them to examine objects at high magnification using visible light and lenses. Optical microscopes are used to observe small structures, such as cells and materials, providing detailed images for analysis and research.

What can you do with a degree in optics?

A degree in optics can lead to careers in optical engineering, microscopy, research and development, and manufacturing of optical devices. Professionals in this field often work with optical systems, lasers, and imaging technologies, requiring skills in physics, engineering, and laboratory techniques.
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What job categories do people searching Optical Microscopy jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Microscopy jobs are:
Optical Microscopy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Microscopy job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

NIST PREP Postdoc Associate in Optical Trapping and Sensing of Nanoparticles

Southeastern Universities Research Association

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration's scientific research.
Research Title: Research scientist: Optical trapping and sensing of nanoparticles (U.S. Citizens preferred)
The work will entail: The Materials Measurement Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking qualified persons (U.S. Citizens preferred) to work on a NIST CHIPS R&D Metrology project that aims at developing measurement methodologies for the detection and identification of very low concentration of contaminants in liquid environments. The focus area includes optimizing photonic enhancement techniques for improving the optical scattering of single impurity particles. In this regard, surface engineering methods, theoretical modeling and optical microscopy are employed to design robust sensors for detection of sub-20 nm particles.
U.S. Citizen Preferred
Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
  • Fabrication of optical cavities in a cleanroom/nanofabrication facility
  • Simulation of optical micro- and nano-cavities for optical traps for nanoparticle sensing
  • Construct/adapt optical microscopes for optical trapping and dark-field optical microscopy
  • Perform single particle detection and spectroscopy in a microfluidic setup
  • Perform different microscopies including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and optical microscopy (OM) equipped with a cryogenic stage for surface analysis
  • Develop computer code (e.g. Python) for the development and analysis of optical cavities

Qualifications
  • PhD degree in Materials, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
  • Skilled in micro-fabrication, optical- and microfluidics, and optical sensing of particles
  • Highly experienced in designing nanoparticle trapping techniques using optical methods
  • Skilled in modeling electro-optical nano-systems to predict properties and fluid dynamics.
  • Highly skilled in multiple scripting languages, including MATLAB, Python, Optiwave (FDTD), COMSOL, Proteus, Lumerical and LaTeX
  • Demonstrated ability to develop prototype sensors integrated with optical fibers and detectors needed to detect and analyze the related data

Employment Terms
This opportunity is to be an associate researcher in the NIST Materials Measurement Science Division for a term of 1 year, with options to renew. Associate researchers are NOT Federal Employees, but they work alongside NIST researchers and with NIST's world class instrumentation. Relocation expenses will not be provided. U.S. Citizens hired into associate positions may have the opportunity to seek longer term Federal Employment.
Privacy Act StatementAuthority: 15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)
Purpose: The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post-bachelor's degree holders, graduate students, master's degree holders, postdocs, and faculty.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate the administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated. By applying to a CHIPS-funded PREP opportunity, you also acknowledge that participation in the project requires signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) prior to beginning any work.
SURA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences, such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, religion, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law.
PREP0004186

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