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Optical Polishing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kearfott

Sr. Optical Polisher

Pine Brook, NJ

$35 - $48/hr

Sr. Optical Polisher (2nd shift) Overview As a Sr. Optical Polisher, you will perform precision ... Perform critical deburring and polishing operations on hard-to-handle parts * Work from drawings ...

Corning

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Experience with optical polishing processes * Knowledge of optical materials or coatings used in laser applications This position does not support immigration sponsorship. The range for this position ...

Corning

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Experience with optical polishing processes * Knowledge of optical materials or coatings used in laser applications This position does not support immigration sponsorship. The range for this position ...

Corning

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Experience with optical polishing processes * Knowledge of optical materials or coatings used in laser applications This position does not support immigration sponsorship. The range for this position ...

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Optical Polishing information

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How much do optical polishing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical polishing 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 optical polishing?

Optical polishing is a precision process used to smooth and refine the surfaces of optical components such as lenses, mirrors, and prisms. The goal is to achieve a highly smooth and accurate surface, free of scratches or imperfections, to ensure optimal light transmission and reflection. This process often involves using fine abrasives and specialized equipment to carefully remove microscopic layers of material. Optical polishing is crucial in industries like astronomy, microscopy, and laser technology, where even minute surface irregularities can affect performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical polishing technician?

To excel as an Optical Polishing Technician, you need a strong understanding of precision optics, manual dexterity, and experience with polishing techniques, often supported by technical training or relevant vocational education. Familiarity with specialized polishing machines, interferometers, and surface quality measurement tools is commonly required. Attention to detail, patience, and problem-solving skills are crucial soft skills for producing high-quality optical components. These competencies ensure the production of precision optics that meet strict industry specifications, which is vital for applications in fields like aerospace, medical devices, and photonics.

What are some common challenges faced by optical polishing technicians and how can they be addressed?

Optical polishing technicians often face challenges such as maintaining precise tolerances, preventing surface defects, and ensuring consistent quality across batches. These issues can be addressed by following strict process controls, regularly calibrating equipment, and staying updated on the latest polishing techniques. Collaboration with quality assurance teams and engineers is also key to troubleshooting problems and continuously improving procedures. Attention to detail and patience are essential traits that help technicians excel in this meticulous work environment.

What is the difference between Optical Polishing vs Lens Grinder?

AspectOptical PolishingLens Grinder
Primary FocusRefining and finishing optical surfaces to achieve smoothness and precisionShaping and cutting lenses to specified dimensions and curves
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of polishing techniques, optical materials, and precision measurement toolsUnderstanding of lens design, grinding equipment, and measurement tools
Work EnvironmentCleanroom or controlled environment for delicate optical workWorkshop or manufacturing setting with grinding machinery
Industry UsageOptical manufacturing, eyewear, scientific instrumentsOptical component production, camera lenses, microscopes

Optical polishing focuses on smoothing and finishing optical surfaces to achieve high precision, while lens grinding involves shaping lenses to exact specifications. Both roles require knowledge of optical materials and precision tools, but they differ in their primary tasks and work environments.

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What cities are hiring for Optical Polishing jobs?

Cities with the most Optical Polishing job openings:

What states have the most Optical Polishing jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Optical Polishing jobs look for?

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Optical Polishing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Polishing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Sr. Optical Polisher

Kearfott Manufacturing

Pine Brook, NJ • On-site

$35 - $48/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Sr. Optical Polisher (2nd shift)

Overview

As a Sr. Optical Polisher, you will perform precision polishing and cleaning operations on a wide variety of high finish and critical dimensioned glass parts.

Essential Functions:

  • Set up and operate a wide variety of bench equipment to polish and clean diverse glass parts.
  • Perform critical deburring and polishing operations on hard-to-handle parts
  • Work from drawings, specifications, and written & verbal instructions to perform the duties assigned.
  • Check work with a variety of electro-mechanical optical and manual measuring equipment.
  • Operate small electric hand and bench tools to perform duties.
  • Use a variety of proper grit, lapping, and polishing compounds to perform duties.
  • Performs any other tasks directed by Management to satisfy company objectives

Education & Experience:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required

  • Five years minimum experience in precision polishing and deburring of diverse-sized glass parts under magnification.

  • Knowledge of parts inspection and statistical process control.

  • Requires the working knowledge of and use of hand tools, power tools, microscope, and electronic equipment.

  • Must be a US Citizen.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in New Jersey is **$35.00 - $48.00 hourly. **This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to job-related knowledge and skills, experience, and internal consistency.

Additionally, we offer a medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, a 401(k) plan with company match, tuition assistance, paid vacation and sick days, paid holidays, and a 9/80 work week with every other Friday off. Our work environment embraces our people as we enjoy monthly employee events that celebrates our workplace culture.

Equal Opportunity Employer/including Disabled/Veterans

You should be proficient in:

  • Aerospace Manufacturing