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Optical Polishing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Lebanon, NH · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Position Summary Bond Optics is seeking an experienced Optical Fabrication Engineer to join our ... Grinding & Polishing Loose-abrasive grinding, pitch polishing, polyurethane pad polishing, SSD ...

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 ...

Optical Fabricator

West Henrietta, NY · On-site

$52K - $79K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

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 ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

An Optical Fabricator is a skilled technician who creates precision optics/tooling by utilizing machines, polishing tools, and associated metrology equipment. Essential Duties: • Operate and setup ...

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 ...

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Optical Polishing information

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$11

$21

$37

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.

More about Optical Polishing jobs

What cities are hiring for Optical Polishing jobs?

Cities with the most Optical Polishing job openings:

What states have the most Optical Polishing jobs?

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

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.

Optical Fabrication Technician (MRF & Conventional Polishing - 2nd & 3rd Shift)

Corning

Fairport, NY • On-site

$27/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

Requisition Number: 75364
The company built on breakthroughs.
Join us.

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible.
How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations - not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward.
At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.
Come break through with us.
Join our Fairport team as an Optical Fabrication Technician, where you'll help manufacture precision optical components that support breakthrough products across industries. We are seeking candidates with 2+ years of hands-on experience in optical fabrication, specifically in MRF (Magnetorheological Finishing) and Conventional Polishing. This is an opportunity to apply your technical expertise in an advanced manufacturing environment while contributing to high-performance optical solutions.
The Specialty Materials segment manufactures products that provide more than 150 material formulations for glass, glass ceramics and fluoride crystals to meet demand for unique customer needs. Consequently, this segment operates in a wide variety of commercial and industrial markets that include display optics and components, semiconductor optics components, aerospace and defense, astronomy, ophthalmic products, telecommunications components and cover glass that is optimized for portable display devices.
Come break through at Corning. A career without limits; ready for you.
Key Responsibilities:
• Perform optical fabrication processes for precision optical components.
• Operate and support MRF (Magnetorheological Finishing) equipment and processes.
• Perform conventional polishing on optical components to meet surface quality and figure requirements.
• Interpret blueprints, work instructions, and process documentation.
• Configure, set up, and operate fabrication and polishing equipment.
• Monitor and adjust process parameters within established standards.
• Perform quality tests, measurements, inspections, and metrology-related tasks.
• Troubleshoot fabrication processes and equipment issues.
• Prepare materials and components for production.
• Interface with plant systems (e.g., document control, manufacturing execution system, etc.).
• Maintain accurate records and communicate process updates effectively.
• Support housekeeping, autonomous maintenance, and clean work area standards.
• Actively engage with continuous improvement and cost reduction programs.
• Train peers on qualified operations as needed.
• Perform other Operations Associate job duties as required.
Who Thrives Here:
• Enjoys hands-on, detail-oriented technical work
• Has experience in precision optical fabrication and polishing
• Takes pride in craftsmanship, quality, and accuracy
• Communicates clearly and works well within a team environment
• Eager to learn, improve processes, and embrace manufacturing technology
• Values working in a diverse, supportive environment
Working Conditions:
• Climate-controlled facility
• Frequent light lifting (up to 5 lbs), occasional lifting up to 15 lbs
• Standing and walking for extended periods
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) required while on the manufacturing floor
What You'll Need:
• High School Diploma or GED (required)
• 2+ years of experience in optical fabrication (required)
• Hands-on experience with:
• MRF (Magnetorheological Finishing)
• Conventional Polishing
• Experience in precision manufacturing, optical finishing, or related field
• Ability to interpret work instructions, drawings, and process specifications
• Comfort with basic computer systems and willingness to learn new tools
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $27.00 hourly rate - $31.00 hourly rate with a $2 shift differential for hours worked on 2nd shift and a $3 shift differential for hours worked on 3rd shift. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training.
A job that shapes a life.
Corning offers you the total package.
Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.
  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.
  • Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Ready to shape the future with us? Apply today!
Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.

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