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Optical Surfacing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bond Optics

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Lebanon, NH · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Specify and apply MIL-PRF-13830B and ISO 10110 surface quality, figure, wedge, and centration ... Mentor Optical Fabrication Technicians I-III; support skills development, competency assessments ...

Ametek

Optics Coating Operator

Middlefield, CT · On-site

$45K/yr

Clean optical components and monitor vacuum chamber for the deposition of optical coatings on optical surfaces. Hand or ultrasonically clean and inspect optical components in preparation of ...

Ametek

Optics Coating Operator

Middlefield, CT · On-site

Clean optical components and monitor vacuum chamber for the deposition of optical coatings on optical surfaces. Hand or ultrasonically clean and inspect optical components in preparation of ...

Ametek

Optics Coating Operator

Middlefield, CT · On-site

$45K/yr

Clean optical components and monitor vacuum chamber for the deposition of optical coatings on optical surfaces. Hand or ultrasonically clean and inspect optical components in preparation of ...

Applied Materials

Optical Engineer III (E3)

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$138K - $190K/yr

Our Engineered Optics team is creating new super thin (sub micron) optical surfaces based on nanometer-sized structures on transparent substrates (known as "metasurface based optics" or "flat optics ...

Amat

Optical Engineer III (E3)

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$138K - $190K/yr

Our Engineered Optics team is creating new super thin (sub micron) optical surfaces based on nanometer-sized structures on transparent substrates (known as "metasurface based optics" or "flat optics ...

Applied Materials

Optical Engineer III (E3)

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$138K - $190K/yr

Our Engineered Optics team is creating new super thin (sub micron) optical surfaces based on nanometer-sized structures on transparent substrates (known as "metasurface based optics" or "flat optics ...

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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 11, 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 Fabrication Technician CWW Front End Nights, 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and

Wilton, CT • On-site

ASML
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about ASMLexternal

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

ASML rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Title: Optical Fabrication Technician
Introduction to the role:
You will fabricate some of the world's most advanced optical components used in the most advanced semiconductor photolithography machines. Through your attention to detail, results orientation, and commitment to task, you will produce high precision quality optics per production schedule. You will maintain the safety and workplace organization of your processing area. You will value adherence to standards while applying your experience and perspective to contribute to continuous improvement in our processing methods. You will enjoy success generated through your individual desire to learn and through teamwork with your colleagues.
We are looking for individuals like you to work in one of our processing competencies. These include: machining glass materials into final configuration using CNC milling equipment; grinding and polishing surfaces of optical components to rigorous dimensional and surface quality specifications; loading material into and operating deposition chambers to coat optics; precisely align and assemble glass parts with a high degree of accuracy in order to produce high quality optical assemblies; measuring optical characteristics of components using advanced metrology equipment for in process material processing feedback and final quality inspection.
Role & Responsibilities:
Front End Nights, 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and every other Saturday)
Must be willing to work a compressed work week schedule- twelve-hour long shift and rotating from three to four days a week.
  • Actively monitor and take ownership of optical processing equipment
  • Handle delicate optical components and visually identify any abnormal characteristics.
  • Maintain area, tooling, and equipment to 5S area standards.
  • Identify and escalate any unsafe conditions.
  • Identify and escalate any product or process quality concerns in a timely manner.
  • Perform assigned work content to support area and factory schedule execution.
  • Collaborate with the Production Engineering and Manufacturing Management teams to improve operational efficiency and effectivity.
  • Learn and apply skills to tackle progressively more challenging products.
  • Identify and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in how your work is defined and performed, and more broadly within your area, to improve safety, quality, output, and cycle time.
  • Inspect and create a map of glass surfaces showing all minute defects.
  • Clean optical surfaces of all particles and contaminants.
  • Accurately record time and attendance.
  • Assist with training new and existing employees

Education & Experience:
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Associate degree in a vocational trade preferred.
  • Previous experience working in a manufacturing facility or completion of a vocational certification preferable.
  • Prior use of some of the following: measuring equipment desirable: microscopes, calipers, micrometers, coordinate measuring machine (CMM), interferometer.
  • Participation in continuous improvement efforts (quality circles, kaizen events, etc.)

Skills:
  • Commitment to task and results orientation to complete scheduled activities and report status throughout your shift.
  • Attention to detail to deliver quality results from your processing step, including visually inspecting your work to detect and report any abnormalities.
  • Organization of information and materials.
  • Ability to read and understand gages and other measuring devices.
  • Ability to interpret mathematical and geometrical data. An example would be experience reading and interpreting topographical maps.
  • Ability to effectively communicate written and verbal information.
  • Demonstrated ability to clearly document a problem using facts and data.
  • Accountable for your actions and willingness to engage in problem resolution.
  • Constructively challenge the status quo in search of a better way.
  • Care for yourself and others by confronting unsafe behaviors or conditions.
  • Take pride in your work and speak up when observing abnormal conditions in process or product.
  • Self-motivated learner.
  • Dexterity to handle optical components with care.

Other Information:
  • Routinely required to sit; walk; talk; hear; use hands to keyboard, finger, handle, and feel; stoop, kneel, crouch, twist, reach, and stretch. Occasionally required to move around the campus.
  • May require travel dependent on business needs.
  • Must be willing to work in a clean room environment, wearing coveralls, hoods, booties, safety glasses and gloves for entire duration of shift.
  • The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Must be comfortable working around lasers, working with ladders, working on platforms, and working around chemicals.
  • Must be able to work in a moderate to high noise level environment in a temperature-controlled environment
  • Must be comfortable operating/working around overhead cranes, fork trucks and motorized pallet movers.
  • May be exposed to moving mechanical parts, solvents and tooling.

You must be work authorized in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship
Additional Responsibilities:
There is potential for exposure to strong magnetic fields, high voltage and currents.
This position requires access to controlled technology, as defined in the United States Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. § 730, et seq.). Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to access such controlled technology prior to beginning work. Business demands may require ASML to proceed with candidates who are immediately eligible to access controlled technology.
Inclusion and diversity
ASML is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that inclusion and diversity is a driving force in the success of our company.
Need to know more about applying for a job at ASML? Read our frequently asked questions.
Request an Accommodation
ASML provides reasonable accommodations to applicants for ASML employment and ASML employees with disabilities. An accommodation is a change in work rules, facilities, or conditions which enable an individual with a disability to apply for a job, perform the essential functions of a job, and/or enjoy equal access to the benefits and privileges of employment. If you are in need of an accommodation to complete an application, participate in an interview, or otherwise participate in the employee pre-selection process, please send an email to USHR_Accommodation@asml.com to initiate the company's reasonable accommodation process.
Please note: This email address is solely intended to provide a method for applicants to initiate ASML's process to request accommodation(s). Any recruitment questions should be directed to the designated Talent Acquisition member for the position.

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