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Optical Surfacing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Computer Generated Holograms (CGHs) enabling interferometric testing of optical surfaces - aspheres, freeforms, cylinders, conic sections, and many other complex surface shapes and optical systems

$100 - $125/hr

Computer Generated Holograms (CGHs) enabling interferometric testing of optical surfaces - aspheres, freeforms, cylinders, conic sections, and many other complex surface shapes and optical systems

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Design optical surfaces for lens and reflector systems for forward and rearward automotive illumination systems. * Validate design via internal and external optical ray tracing software * Create ...

Warby Parker is on the lookout for an Optical Surfacing Process Engineer to help expand and optimize our in-house lens surfacing capabilities. In this role, you will combine deep equipment expertise ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

Design optical surfaces for lens and reflector systems for forward and rearward automotive illumination systems. * Validate design via internal and external optical ray tracing software * Create ...

Warby Parker is on the lookout for an Optical Surfacing Process Engineer to help expand and optimize our in-house lens surfacing capabilities. In this role, you will combine deep equipment expertise ...

Optical Metrology Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

Perform interferometric testing using Zygo Max interferometer systems to evaluate optical surface quality, transmitted wavefront error, and system alignment. * Conduct MTF (Modulation Transfer ...

Optical Fab Tech

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

Work with delicate optical components including manual methods of fabrication and packagingVisual inspection of optical surfaces and testing of optical components and materialsMonitor and control ...

Optical Tech I

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$16.07 - $27.48/hr

Inspect optical surfaces for quality and compliance * Perform accurate data entry and support metrology processes Minimum Qualifications * Education: High school diploma or GED * Experience: 1+ year ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

Non-sequential ray tracing using Light Tools to model high precision optics surface scattering, conduct stray light analysis * Optical module and system build, alignment and debugging * Test stand ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Non-sequential ray tracing using Light Tools to model high precision optics surface scattering, conduct stray light analysis* Optical module and system build, alignment and debugging* Test stand ...

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Optical Surfacing information

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$12

$17

$22

How much do optical surfacing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical surfacing in the United States is $17.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is optical surfacing?

Optical surfacing is the process of shaping and polishing optical components, such as lenses and mirrors, to achieve precise surface accuracy and smoothness. This involves grinding, lapping, and polishing materials like glass or crystals to meet stringent optical specifications. Technicians use specialized equipment and abrasive compounds to remove imperfections and create surfaces suitable for applications in cameras, telescopes, microscopes, and other optical instruments. The goal is to ensure that the finished component delivers optimal light transmission and minimal distortion.

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

To thrive as an Optical Surfacing Technician, you need strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and a basic understanding of optics, typically supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with precision machinery, lens surfacing equipment, and quality control systems is essential. Reliability, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work as part of a team are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure the production of high-quality optical components that meet strict specifications, which is critical for customer satisfaction and product performance.

What are some common challenges faced in the optical surfacing role, and how can they be effectively managed?

Professionals in optical surfacing often encounter challenges such as maintaining high precision during the grinding and polishing process, ensuring surface quality, and minimizing defects like scratches or pits. These tasks require careful monitoring of equipment, diligent cleaning practices, and strict adherence to process specifications. Team members frequently collaborate with quality assurance and engineering to troubleshoot issues and refine techniques. Proactively communicating with colleagues and engaging in ongoing training can help manage these challenges and ensure consistent product quality.

What is the difference between Optical Surfacing vs Lens Polisher?

AspectOptical SurfacingLens Polisher
Primary FocusMaterial removal and surface correction of optical componentsFinishing and polishing of lenses to achieve optical clarity
Skills & CertificationsPrecision grinding, polishing, knowledge of optical materialsPolishing techniques, attention to surface finish, often similar certifications
Work EnvironmentCleanroom or optical lab settingsOptical labs, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageManufacturing of high-precision optical componentsFinal lens finishing in optical manufacturing

Optical Surfacing involves shaping and correcting optical components through material removal, ensuring precise surface accuracy. Lens Polisher focuses on the final polishing process to achieve optical clarity and smoothness. While both roles require similar skills and work environments, Optical Surfacing is more about shaping and correcting, whereas Lens Polisher emphasizes finishing touches for optimal optical performance.

What other helpful pages are available for Optical Surfacing?

Other pages related to Optical Surfacing:

Infographic showing various Optical Surfacing job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,574 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Optical Lab/Manufacturing/Surfacing/Lab Software/Calculations

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

We are looking for a Technically Engineer minded individual to learn how to help run an optical surfacing dept. Full training for the right candidate.

Training would start 10AM-7PM for a month+, second shift would start at 3pm-11pm

To be successful in this role, you should be a confident decision-maker, trouble shooter, problem solver and independent. We need to strive for quality and production.

  • Learn optical manufacturing
  • Prepare lenses for optical production
  • Run & manage surfacing generators
  • Run & manage lens polishers, laser engravers
  • Identify lens materials, base curves, sizes
  • Understand progressive designs, markings, SV, flat tops
  • Calibrate equipment
  • Clean & Prep equipment for next production day
  • Machine/Generator Satisloh, OptoTech, Schneider
  • Mathematics, software, calculations,
  • Understanding nematic pressure which runs all the robotics on our equipment.
  • Hard Coaters, AntiFog
  • MEI edger's, National Optronics
  • Lensometer Manual and Auto
  • Lens knowledge Power, Cyl, Axis, Seg. Heights, PD's, Prism, slab offs, etc.
  • Optical experience a plus but not necessary
  • Call John 623-34onezero878

Company Description

Black Lab Optical is a growing optical lab in north Scottsdale. Please visit our website at www.blacklaboptical.com for more info.