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Optical Technology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

Drive innovation by evaluating emerging technologies, materials, and design methodologies relevant to product roadmap needs. * Perform advanced optical modeling, simulation, and optimization using ...

Dynamic, smart people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work ... All aspects of optical experiments to test optical system performance, including test setup design ...

Serve as technology lead and principal investigator for key government and commercial optics programs. Act as an internal technical and opportunity consultant in optics, supporting business, value ...

... technologies. This role provides technical leadership and pathfinding in optical physics and optical materials, linking fundamental physics, materials, coatings, and process conditions to system ...

Optical Technician

Lockbourne, OH · On-site

$15.75 - $22.58/hr

Experience working in a fast-paced environment One to two years of manufacturing, production, or optical tech experience Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the functions of an ...

Experience working in a fast-paced environment One to two years of manufacturing, production, or optical tech experience Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the functions of an ...

Licensed Optician

Quincy, MA · On-site

$35/hr

Maintain knowledge of current eyewear trends and optical technology. Qualifications Required: * High school diploma or equivalent. * Active Massachusetts State Licensure as an Optician. * 2+ years of ...

Maintain knowledge of current eyewear trends and optical technology. Qualifications Required: * High school diploma or equivalent. * Active Massachusetts State Licensure as an Optician. * 2+ years of ...

Optical Technician

Lockbourne, OH · On-site

$15.75 - $22.58/hr

Experience working in a fast-paced environment One to two years of manufacturing, production, or optical tech experience Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the functions of an ...

Optical Technician

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$15.75 - $22.58/hr

Experience working in a fast-paced environment One to two years of manufacturing, production, or optical tech experience Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the functions of an ...

As an Optical Test Development Engineer, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of optical technology. Your expertise will be instrumental in creating innovative testing methodologies and ...

Optical Test Development Engineer

Allentown, PA · On-site

$127.30K - $164.80K/yr

As an Optical Test Development Engineer, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of optical technology. Your expertise will be instrumental in creating innovative testing methodologies and ...

Optical Technician

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$15.75 - $22.58/hr

Experience working in a fast-paced environment One to two years of manufacturing, production, or optical tech experience Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the functions of an ...

Optical Test Development Engineer

Allentown, PA · On-site

$127.30K - $164.80K/yr

As an Optical Test Development Engineer, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of optical technology. Your expertise will be instrumental in creating innovative testing methodologies and ...

The team is looking for an Optical Engineer to work on advanced optical technology development. Description - Work on new lens design, characterization and integration into CMOS imager sensor based ...

The team is looking for an Optical Engineer to work on advanced optical technology development.","responsibilities":"Work on new lens design, characterization and integration into CMOS imager sensor ...

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Optical Technology information

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How much do optical technology jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical technology 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 Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Technician, you need a solid understanding of optics principles, lens fabrication, and precision measurement, usually supported by postsecondary training or certification in optical technology. Familiarity with lensometers, spectrometers, polishing machines, and specialized software for lens design is commonly required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for ensuring accuracy and collaborating with clients or other technicians. These skills are critical for producing high-quality optical components and maintaining precise standards in vision care or optical manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Optical Technology, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Optical Technology often encounter challenges such as keeping pace with rapid technological advancements and troubleshooting complex optical systems. Staying updated through ongoing training and industry certifications can help address the fast-evolving nature of optical tools and techniques. Effective collaboration with interdisciplinary teams—such as engineers, technicians, and researchers—is also essential for problem-solving and innovation. Developing strong communication and project management skills will further support success in this dynamic field.

What is optical technology?

Optical technology refers to the science and application of light and optics, including devices and systems that generate, control, and detect light. This field covers a range of technologies such as lasers, fiber optics, lenses, and imaging systems, which are used in industries like telecommunications, medicine, manufacturing, and research. Optical technology professionals work on designing, testing, and maintaining these systems to ensure they function effectively for applications such as transmitting data, medical diagnostics, or creating high-precision instruments.

How much is the salary of a fiber optic technician?

The salary of a fiber optic technician typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Ongoing training and familiarity with tools like fusion splicers can also impact earnings.

What is the difference between Optical Technology vs Optical Engineering?

AspectOptical TechnologyOptical Engineering
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in optics, physics, or related fieldBachelor's or higher in optical engineering or physics
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, labs, technical supportDesign, development, research in labs or corporate settings
Industry UsageOptical device manufacturing, telecommunications, medical devicesResearch institutions, high-tech companies, product development

Optical Technology focuses on the practical application, assembly, and maintenance of optical devices, while Optical Engineering involves designing and developing optical systems and components. Both roles require a strong understanding of optics but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Optical Technology jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Technology jobs? Cities with the most Optical Technology job openings:
What states have the most Optical Technology jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Technology jobs include:
Infographic showing various Optical Technology job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, and 99% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

$120K - $160K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

OPTICAL TEST ENGINEER

Mesh Optical Technologies was founded on the belief that optical photons will be at the center of advanced technologies in the coming century. Making advanced technology ubiquitous means building at scale, and that's exactly what we're doing at Mesh.

Scaling advanced photonics demands test and measurement systems as sophisticated as the devices themselves. We are seeking an Optical Test Engineer to design, build, and validate the optical test infrastructure that ensures our products meet rigorous performance, yield, and reliability standards-from wafer-level characterization through integrated module validation. You will be the critical link between design intent and production reality, turning data into actionable insight across every stage of our manufacturing pipeline.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Partner with PIC design, electrical, mechanical and test teams to define requirements for production and develop test approaches for complex hardware
  • Design, build, and validate optical test systems including imaging, microscopy, polarimetry, profilometry, and interferometry
  • Compile and analyze data sets to identify trends in performance
  • Assist with validation activities, including performance characterization at the wafer-, die-, and integrated module level
  • Work with internal engineering teams and suppliers to identify drivers of performance, yield, reliability, and quality issues
  • Review designs for manufacturability; drive integration build flow, test operations, and execution readiness

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, optical engineering, applied physics or an engineering discipline
  • 2+ years of hands-on experience in optics, photonics, lasers, or test
  • Working knowledge of lasers, photodiodes, fiber optics, optical test/troubleshooting methods, and signal integrity fundamentals
  • Hands-on experience with optical test equipment (e.g., power meters, interferometers, spectrum analyzers)
  • 1+ years of programming experience (e.g., C++, LabVIEW, and/or Python)
  • Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as needed

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:

  • Master's degree or PhD in electrical engineering, optical engineering, applied physics or an engineering discipline
  • Experience in optical lab or production environments with strong attention to detail
  • Proficiency with optical design/analysis tools (e.g., Zemax)
  • Experience integrating and testing electrical and/or avionics systems
  • Experience with documentation practices and configuration management
  • Hands-on experience with electro-optic wafer- and die-level test systems
  • Hands-on familiarity with optical/RF test equipment (e.g., spectrum analyzers, VNAs, VSGs, high-speed oscilloscopes, BERTs)
  • Experience writing test plans and procedures, and delivering go/no-go decisions with clear rationale
  • CAD proficiency (NX preferred)

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range: 
Optical Test Engineer: $120,000.00 - $160,000.00/per year

Title and base salary are determined on a case by case basis commensurate with experience and merit.

In addition to base salary, compensation for this role includes:

  • Eligibility for long-term incentives including company stock options and discretionary bonuses awarded for exceptional achievements.
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance with significant cost covered by the company for yourself and dependents.
  • Paid parental leave and flexible PTO (3 weeks accrued vacation and 10 company holidays per year).
  • 401(k) retirement plan access.
  • Relocation assistance to sunny Los Angeles.