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Optical Polisher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rigaku

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Set up, operate, and optimize CNC (and manual, as needed) grinding/polishing processes to meet specifications for optical components, such as dimensions, figure error, slope error, and surface ...

Rigaku

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Set up, operate, and optimize CNC (and manual, as needed) grinding/polishing processes to meet specifications for optical components, such as dimensions, figure error, slope error, and surface ...

CivicMinds, Inc.

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Lebanon, NH · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Develop, qualify, and document loose-abrasive grinding and pitch-polishing processes for flats, spheres, prisms, and wedges across optical glasses, fused silica, calcium fluoride, and crystalline ...

IDEX

Optical Fabricator

West Henrietta, NY

Hand bevel and block lenses for grinding and polishing processes. * Execute hand grinding and CNC/conventional polishing to achieve required surface quality. * Conduct optical inspection and ...

Vertex Optics

Optical Technician

Victor, NY · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Vertex Optics is not just another company, and this opportunity is not just another job! At Vertex ... Prepares tooling for grinding, polishing or measurement setups. * Use measurement devices such as ...

University of Rochester

$21.78 - $30.53/hr

Operate continuous polishers. * Operate grinding machines. * Operate double-sided grinding and polishing machines up to 4" diameter optics. * Use of micrometers, calipers, and interferometers.

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How much do optical polisher jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical polisher in the United States is $20.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical polisher do?

An Optical Polisher is responsible for refining and finishing optical components, such as lenses and mirrors, to achieve precise surface smoothness and accuracy. They use specialized tools and polishing compounds to remove imperfections and enhance optical performance. This role requires strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and knowledge of polishing techniques and materials. Optical Polishers often work in industries such as aerospace, medical devices, and scientific research, where high-quality optics are essential.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an optical polisher?

As an Optical Polisher, your day-to-day tasks often include preparing optical materials, operating polishing machines, inspecting surface finishes, and measuring product accuracy using specialized tools. You’ll collaborate with engineers and quality assurance teams to ensure final products align with stringent technical specifications. Regular maintenance of polishing equipment and strict adherence to safety and cleanliness protocols are also important aspects of the job. This hands-on role requires a detail-oriented approach, as the quality of finished optical components directly impacts their performance in advanced applications.

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

To thrive as an Optical Polisher, you need excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of optics and precision mechanics. Familiarity with polishing tools, measuring equipment like interferometers, and sometimes cleanroom or ISO-certified manufacturing environments is typically required. Strong organizational skills, patience, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a quality-driven team help you excel in this position. These competencies are crucial for producing high-quality optical components that meet exacting industry standards for applications in science, technology, and manufacturing.

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Optical Polisher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Polisher job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,101 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Rigaku
See more jobs at Rigakuexternal

$122K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 17 hours ago

Job description

Join Rigaku in shaping a better world through new perspectives!
POSITION SUMMARY
Optical Engineer working at RIT is responsible for developing precision optics technology and precision optics technology-based X-ray optics. These include the development of processes and precision optical components by using CNC grinding and polishing equipment and verify results using optical metrology (e.g., interferometers, profilometers, microscopy). We welcome applicants with strong CNC machining backgrounds who demonstrate excellent fundamentals in setup, fixturing, offsets, inspection, and process discipline, and who are capable of learning optics-specific fabrication and measurement methods.
Essential Functions:
  • Set up, operate, and optimize CNC (and manual, as needed) grinding/polishing processes to meet specifications for optical components, such as dimensions, figure error, slope error, and surface roughness.
  • Develop and implement robust workpiece holding and alignment solutions, including datum strategy, part positioning, and repeatable fixturing for high-precision parts.
  • Perform in-process and final inspection using optical metrology tools such as interferometers, profilometers, and microscopes; interpret results and determine next corrective actions.
  • Conduct instrument checks and basic calibration/verification (reference artifacts, repeatability checks, traceability practices) to ensure processing integrity and stable performance.
  • Maintain equipment in proper operating condition through routine maintenance and safe operation; keep a clean, organized workspace consistent with precision optics manufacturing expectations.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve manufacturing issues across systems including mechanical, electrical, pneumatic (compressed air), pumping, cooling, and exhaust/ventilation, escalating as needed.
  • Read and interpret drawings and specifications for optical components.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
  • Bachelor of Science in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related field

Experience:
  • Strong Preferred: 3+ years of hands-on experience in grinding/polishing/smoothing optical materials and using optical metrology systems such as interferometers, profilometers, and microscopes.
  • Preferred: 3+ years hands-on experience in precision optics manufacturing and metrology, including deterministic polishing and advanced fabrication/measurement methods.
  • Minimum: 3+ years of demonstrated experience in a CNC machine shop or precision manufacturing environment producing tight-tolerance components, with strong fundamentals in:
    • setup/fixturing and part alignment
    • tool selection, offsets, and compensation changes
    • in-process and final inspection using precision instruments
    • disciplined cleaning/handling of precision parts and work area control

Competencies:
  • Working knowledge of CNC machine architecture and operation, including:
    • machine coordinate systems vs. work coordinate systems; establishing datums and alignment strategy
    • tool length/wear offsets, work offsets, compensation methodology, and safe prove-out practices
  • Ability to read/edit CNC programs and understand common G/M codes relevant to setup, motion, compensation, and safety interlocks; capable of making controlled program adjustments to improve process outcomes.
  • Experience using probing / touch-off methods (or equivalent setup verification techniques) and applying inspection feedback to refine offsets/compensation.
  • Understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, including runout, concentricity, flatness, parallelism, and how these relate to inspection strategy and fixturing.
  • Strong ability to complete tasks and processes with accuracy, thoroughness, and consistency.
  • Strong ability to identify issues, evaluate potential solutions, and take proactive steps to resolve challenges.
  • Proficiency with shop math / geometry (trig, radii, sag, runout, coordinate transforms) to support setup, verification, and problem solving.
  • Willingness and ability to learn and apply optics-specific requirements including figure error, slope error, surface roughness, and scratch/dig.
  • Ability to interpret technical drawings/specifications and communicate clearly through documentation, handoffs, and cross-functional collaboration.
  • Communicates clearly and effectively in both oral and written forms.

Computer Skills:
  • Demonstrated capability in CAD and/or CAM (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for instrumental fixtures, tooling concepts, or process documentation.
  • Proficiency in programming is a plus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Office Environment
This role is performed in a typical office setting with controlled temperatures, artificial lighting, and minimal exposure to noise or environmental hazards. Work primarily involves sitting at a desk, using a computer, and operating standard office equipment such as phones, printers, and copiers. The environment is generally quiet, though occasional disruptions may occur in collaborative or open-office spaces.
Production Environment
This role is based in a manufacturing or production facility where employees may be exposed to loud noise, vibrations, and the constant operation of machinery. Temperature conditions vary depending on the type of production, with some areas experiencing high heat from equipment or cold storage requirements. The air may contain dust, fumes, or chemicals, necessitating the use of respiratory protection or other PPE. Employees frequently engage in repetitive tasks, assembly work, or heavy lifting in an environment that prioritizes efficiency and safety.
Rigaku offers a rewarding work environment and excellent benefits. All applicants are kept in strict confidence. Benefits package includes Health, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, Life insurance, section 125 flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan and more. Rigaku is an EEO/AA employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Applicants must be able to prove they can legally work in the US.

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