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Optical Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Johnson and Johnson

Optics Operator

Anasco, PR · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Operates general manufacturing equipment such as: cutting machines, microscopes, comparators, optical benches, among others. When necessary, operates, executes the "setup" and adjusts the parameters ...

Neuralink

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$86K - $143K/yr

The Robot Optics Team is seeking Optical Engineers passionate about shaping the future of operating rooms. We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which ...

Johnson and Johnson

Optics Operator I

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Learn more at We are searching for the best talent for our Optic Operator I (18 openings across ... optical benches-to produce and verify units in accordance with approved procedures, process ...

SGS Consulting

Optical Engineer

Lexington, MA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Optical Engineer Duration: 3+ years Client: Defense Research Lab Location: Lexington, MA 02421 ... Running environmental test campaigns to characterize assemblies performance over operating and ...

New

Rigaku

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Maintain equipment in proper operating condition through routine maintenance and safe operation; keep a clean, organized workspace consistent with precision optics manufacturing expectations.

Rigaku

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Maintain equipment in proper operating condition through routine maintenance and safe operation; keep a clean, organized workspace consistent with precision optics manufacturing expectations.

Jj

Optics Operator I

Jacksonville, FL

$16.50 - $22/hr

Learn more at We are searching for the best talent for our Optic Operator I (18 openings across ... optical benches-to produce and verify units in accordance with approved procedures, process ...

Aetherflux

Optical Engineer

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

Experience with optical tolerance budgeting including Monte Carlo methods, alignment sensitivity analysis, and thermal/athermal analysis across operating temperature ranges. * Experience with ...

Socket.dev

Optical Engineer

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

Experience with optical tolerance budgeting including Monte Carlo methods, alignment sensitivity analysis, and thermal/athermal analysis across operating temperature ranges. * Experience with ...

Leidos

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

You will support the design, modeling, and experimental validation of optical systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. You will contribute to optical system modeling and performance ...

Leidos

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

You will support the design, modeling, and experimental validation of optical systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. You will contribute to optical system modeling and performance ...

Inversion

Staff Optical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$161K - $221K/yr

These systems open the door to new ways of testing, delivering, and operating at hypersonic speeds. Inherently dual-use, our technology is built to meet urgent national security needs while laying ...

K2 Space

Optical Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$110K - $280K/yr

By operating our own vehicles and manifesting regular rides to space, K2 is uniquely positioned to design, test, and deploy-at-scale ambitious optical payloads in MEO, GEO, cis-lunar, and deep space ...

Leidos

Optical Engineer

National City, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

You will support the design, modeling, and experimental validation of optical systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. You will contribute to optical system modeling and performance ...

Tomorrow.io

Optical Payload Engineer

Golden, CO · On-site

$133K - $172K/yr

We are building and operating a weather observation constellation powered by next generation ... Tomorrow.io is seeking an Optical Payload Engineer to support the development, integration, and ...

Tomorrow.io

Optical Payload Engineer

Golden, CO · On-site

$133K - $172K/yr

We are building and operating a weather observation constellation powered by next generation ... Tomorrow.io is seeking an Optical Payload Engineer to support the development, integration, and ...

Leidos

Optical Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

You will support the design, modeling, and experimental validation of optical systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. You will contribute to optical system modeling and performance ...

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Optical Operator information

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$11

$21

$37

How much do optical operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical operator 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.

What is an optical operator?

Optical Operators are professionals who work with optical equipment, such as lenses, prisms, and fiber optics, to assemble, maintain, test, or calibrate these components. They often work in manufacturing, laboratories, or production environments where precision and attention to detail are essential. Their responsibilities can include inspecting materials for defects, setting up and operating optical machinery, and ensuring products meet strict quality standards. Optical Operators may also troubleshoot equipment and help with basic repairs or adjustments.

What are some common challenges faced by optical operators in maintaining precision and quality during production?

Optical Operators often face challenges such as maintaining strict tolerances for surface quality and alignment, especially when working with delicate or complex optical components. Dust, fingerprints, and minor scratches can impact the performance of lenses or mirrors, so a high level of attention to cleanliness and detail is required. Additionally, operators must frequently calibrate and adjust machinery, troubleshoot issues on the fly, and collaborate closely with quality control teams to ensure every component meets rigorous industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Operator, you need a solid understanding of optical principles, attention to detail, and experience with precision measurement, typically supported by a high school diploma or relevant technical training. Familiarity with optical inspection equipment, lens processing machines, and quality control systems is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, manual dexterity, and effective communication help Optical Operators excel in this detail-oriented role. These skills ensure the accurate fabrication and inspection of optical components, which is critical for maintaining product quality and meeting industry standards.

What is the difference between Optical Operator vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical OperatorOptical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree or certification in optical technology
Work EnvironmentOptical manufacturing or retail settingsLaboratories, manufacturing facilities, or repair shops
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate optical equipment, assist in lens production, quality checksMaintain, repair, and assemble optical devices, troubleshoot issues

Optical Operators primarily focus on operating optical machinery and assisting in lens production, often with minimal formal education. Optical Technicians have more technical training and handle maintenance, repairs, and complex assembly tasks. Both roles are essential in optical manufacturing and retail, but Optical Technicians typically require more specialized skills and certifications.

What cities are hiring for Optical Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Optical Operator job openings:

What states have the most Optical Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Optical Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Operator jobs?

For Optical Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Optical Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Optics Operator

Anasco, PR • On-site

Johnson and Johnson
See more jobs at Johnson and Johnsonexternal

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured, where treatments are smarter and less invasive, and solutions are personal. Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity. Learn more at jnj.com.
As guided by Our Credo, Johnson & Johnson is responsible to our employees who work with us throughout the world. We provide an inclusive work environment where each person is considered as an individual. At Johnson & Johnson, we respect the diversity and dignity of our employees and recognize their merit.
Job Function:
Supply Chain Manufacturing
Job Sub Function:
Manufacturing Assembly
Job Category:
Business Enablement/Support
All Job Posting Locations:
Anasco, Puerto Rico, United States of America
Job Description:
Performs a variety of tasks with the work team that makes up the manufacturing line. These includes repetitive and non-repetitive tasks. Operates general manufacturing equipment such as: cutting machines, microscopes, comparators, optical benches, among others. When necessary, operates, executes the "setup" and adjusts the parameters of the manufacturing machines / equipment to ensure compliance with specifications and standards of the manufacturing processes
Required Skills:
Preferred Skills:

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