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Optical Tweezers Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gooch & Housego PLC

Optical Technician

Moorpark, CA · On-site

Able to perform cleaning methods on small optics using both hands and a variety of tools such as tweezers, suction cups, clamps, Q-Tips, etc. * Able to interpret blueprints, work orders, travelers

Gooch & Housego PLC

Optical Technician

Moorpark, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Able to perform cleaning methods on small optics using both hands and a variety of tools such as tweezers, suction cups, clamps, Q-Tips, etc. * Able to interpret blueprints, work orders, travelers

The Pennsylvania State University

The position requires a PhD in Chemistry (or an equivalent doctorate in an appropriate field) with a focus on cryogenic electron microscopy (Cryo-EM) and/or single molecule optical tweezers ...

Rutgers University

Post Doctoral Associate

Piscataway, NJ · On-site

$63K/yr

Preferred Qualifications Equipment Utilized Micropipette manipulation and patch-clamp, optical tweezers, fluorescence microscopy, cell culture, AFM, EM. Physical Demands and Work Environment The Shi ...

Rutgers University

Post Doctoral Associate

Piscataway, NJ · On-site

$63K/yr

Preferred Qualifications Equipment Utilized Micropipette manipulation and patch-clamp, optical tweezers, fluorescence microscopy, cell culture, AFM, EM. Physical Demands and Work Environment The Shi ...

Coherent

Optical Test Technician

Woburn, MA · On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

Handle millimeter size die with tweezers * Handle optical components according to instructions Skills and experience * Steady hands and good eyesight * Attention to details * Ability to strictly ...

Coherent Corp.

Optical Test Technician

Woburn, MA · On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

Handle millimeter size die with tweezers * Handle optical components according to instructions Skills and experience * Steady hands and good eyesight * Attention to details * Ability to strictly ...

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How much do optical tweezers jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical tweezers 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 the difference between Optical Tweezers vs Laser Technician?

AspectOptical TweezersLaser Technician
Required CredentialsPhysics or engineering degree, specialized training in optical manipulationTechnical diploma or degree in electronics, optics, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, biotech companiesManufacturing facilities, labs, maintenance settings
Industry UsageBiophysics, nanotechnology, biomedical researchLaser system setup, maintenance, calibration in various industries

Optical Tweezers focus on manipulating microscopic particles using laser beams, often in research settings. Laser Technicians handle laser equipment for various applications, including manufacturing and testing. While both roles involve lasers, Optical Tweezers are specialized for scientific research, whereas Laser Technicians support industrial and technical operations.

What are some common challenges faced by researchers working with optical tweezers, and how can these be addressed?

Researchers using optical tweezers often face challenges such as precise alignment of optical components, maintaining sample stability, and minimizing external vibrations that can impact measurements. Working in a controlled laboratory environment and using vibration isolation tables can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, regular calibration and maintenance of the equipment are crucial for accurate experimental results. Collaboration with experienced colleagues and continuous training can also help researchers overcome technical hurdles and ensure successful experiments.

What are optical tweezers?

Optical tweezers are scientific instruments that use a highly focused laser beam to trap and manipulate microscopic particles, such as cells, beads, or molecules, without physical contact. Developed in the 1980s, optical tweezers exploit the momentum of photons to exert very small forces, allowing precise control over the position and movement of tiny objects. They are widely used in biological research, physics, and materials science for applications like measuring molecular forces, studying cell mechanics, and manipulating single molecules. Optical tweezers have revolutionized the ability to study interactions at the microscopic scale.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Tweezers Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Tweezers Researcher, you need a strong background in physics or biophysics, proficiency in experimental methods, and typically a graduate degree in a related field. Experience with laser optics, microscopy, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or LabVIEW), and sometimes specialized certifications in laboratory safety are important. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are essential for designing precise experiments, interpreting complex data, and collaborating within multidisciplinary research teams.
Infographic showing various Optical Tweezers job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,574 per year, or $17.6 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Experimental Atomic Physics

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Experimental Atomic Physics

University of Oklahoma

Norman, OK • On-site

$65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

University Of Oklahoma rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

174th of 532 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
Available immediately. Experimental postdoc position in atomic physics pursuing implementations of quantum information science (QIS) in neutral atom systems within the contexts of quantum sensing with atom interferometers, and/or multi-atom entanglement using interactions between ultra-cold Rydberg atoms in optical tweezers. These research directions build upon our prior, foundational work with entangling interactions using ultra-cold Rydberg atoms controlled in optical tweezers, as well as novel techniques for matter wave interferometry. Our current investigations cover aspects of matter wave interferometry, quantum synchronization, and an exploration of computational complexity versus robustness with entangled atomic spins. Main duties include leading, developing, and managing QIS experiments that advance these research directions. The initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of renewal for a third year, contingent on satisfactory performance and continued funding. The stipend will be $65,000 per year plus benefits along with an annual $4,000 travel budget for the Fellow.
Qualifications
Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Physics or a related area.
Application Instructions
Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae (including publications), a statement of research interests and plans limited to two pages to interfolio. Applicants will be asked to provide contact information of three confidential letter writers, who will be subsequently contacted. Applicants are asked to indicate their potential start date in the cover letter.
For more information please visit the group website (biedermann-group.com) and contact Grant Biedermann: biedermann@ou.edu

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About University of Oklahoma

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The University of Oklahoma is a prominent educational institution positioned in Norman, Oklahoma, US. Established in 1890, the university stakes a claim within the higher education industry and has a storied history of excellence in academics and research. Serving over 20,000 students, the university offers a wide range of programs across fields such as arts and sciences, business, engineering, international studies, and more. Emphasizing a dedication to unlocking potential, OU's mission is to provide the best possible educational experience to students through excellence in teaching, research, and creative activity. Notably, the institution has made significant strides in research with a focus on areas such as cancer, aerospace, and energy among others.

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Education

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Norman, OK, US

Year founded

1890

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