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Optical Polishing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Corning

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Fairport, NY

$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

$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 Jun 9, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Polishing Technician, and why are they important?

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 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 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.

More about Optical Polishing jobs
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What states have the most Optical Polishing jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Polishing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Polishing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Polishing jobs are:
Optical Polishing jobs near you

Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Gooch & Housego Cleveland

Highland Heights, OH

$125K - $162K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description

ABOUT US
G&H is a world leader in optical designing, testing and manufacturing. As experts in the technology of light, G&H works with customers to provide optical systems, assemblies, and components for demanding applications. 


Headquartered in Ilminster Somerset, UK with primary operations in the USA and Europe, G&H is recognized for the breadth of their acousto-optic, electro-optic, crystal-optic, fiber optic, and precision optic products. G&H is recognized as the preferred source for OEMs in the life sciences, industrial, and aerospace and defense industries, with a history of quality and excellence that dates back over seventy-five years. 


THE ROLE

We are seeking an Optical Manufacturing Engineer to lead the fabrication and optimization of high-precision optical components used in photonics and laser systems. This role combines deep technical expertise with process ownership, ensuring optical components meet stringent performance and quality standards.

The Optical Manufacturing Engineer serves as the technical authority for polishing processes, driving continuous improvement, troubleshooting complex fabrication challenges, and guiding less experienced team members. 


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Own and optimize optical polishing and fabrication processes for complex components (e.g., prisms, laser optics, crystals)  
  • Develop and refine polishing methods, tooling approaches, and process parameters for various materials  
  • Interpret optical specifications (surface figure, flatness, scratch/dig, etc.) and ensure adherence  
  • Perform advanced metrology and analyze results (interferometry, profilometry, etc.) to validate outcomes  
  • Troubleshoot process issues and implement corrective actions to improve yield and performance  
  • Partner with engineering on new product introduction (NPI), feasibility, and process development  
  • Establish best practices, work instructions, and process controls  
  • Mentor and provide technical guidance to Optical Polishers and junior technicians  
  • Ensure compliance with quality, cleanliness, and handling standards for high-precision optics  

QUALIFICATIONS

  • 5 - 10+ years of experience in optical fabrication, polishing, or precision manufacturing  
  • Deep expertise in polishing techniques (pitch, loose abrasive, CNC, etc.)  
  • Strong understanding of optical materials and their behaviors  
  • Advanced ability to interpret optical drawings and tolerances  
  • Experience with optical metrology and surface characterization  

ADDITIONAL NOTES
This job description is not intended to be exhaustive in every respect, but rather to clearly define the fundamental purpose, responsibilities and dimensions for the role. Therefore, this job description does not describe any individual role holder. In addition to the contents of this job description, employees are expected to undertake all other reasonable and related tasks allocated by their line manager.

The Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. The Company does not discriminate in employment opportunity or practices on the grounds of gender, race, religion or belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by national laws under which the Company operates.

Please note that this position will involve having access to items and technical data that may be controlled under U.S. export laws and regulations ("U.S. Export Control Laws"), including but not limited to the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR") and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ("ITAR"). To comply with the U.S. Export Control Laws, G&H must assess whether candidates are "U.S. persons" as defined under the EAR (15 C.F.R. Part 772) and the ITAR (22 C.F.R. 120.15). Certain questions asked during the application process are intended to assess this and will be used for compliance purposes only.  

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