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Optical Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

Electro-Optical Technician

Longmont, CO

$30 - $45/hr

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment ...

nLIGHT

Electro-Optical Technician

Longmont, CO

$30 - $45/hr

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment ...

IonQ

Optical Bench Alignment Technician

Broomfield, CO

$68K - $82K/yr

None Job ID: 1640 The Role The Optical Alignment Technician plays a critical role in the production of Skyloom optical communication terminals. This position is responsible for the precision ...

Lockheed Martin

Electro-Optical Engineer

Louisville, CO · On-site

ATC is seeking a Research Oriented Electro-Optical Engineer with familiarity in the development and demonstration of linear and nonlinear optical systems and devices. You should have experience in ...

BAE Systems

Eng Prin - Optical

Boulder, CO · On-site

$115K - $196K/yr

Work hands-on with optical hardware, performing analytical work, and driving technology development. * Procure and validate cutting-edge optical components to support system development. * Lead or ...

Lockheed Martin

Electro-Optical Engineer

Louisville, CO · On-site

ATC is seeking a Research Oriented Electro-Optical Engineer with familiarity in the development and demonstration of linear and nonlinear optical systems and devices. You should have experience in ...

True Anomaly

Electro-Optical Engineer II

Denver, CO · On-site

$95K - $155K/yr

In this role, you will support optical system development across the full hardware lifecycle - from performance modeling and specification development through bench-level testing and hardware ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

We are looking for an expert optical designer with long-term experience in the field of optical design. The candidate will possess a deep understanding of optical design and should be able to provide ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

As an optical engineer at BAE Systems Space and Mission Systems (SMS), you will play a key role in advancing our technology and developing innovative optical systems for airborne and space-based ...

IonQ

Optical Bench Integration Technician

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$68K - $82K/yr

None Job ID: 1641 The Role The Optical Integration Technician has a critical role in production of Skyloom optical communication terminals. This role involves the initial integration of mechanical ...

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Optical information

See Colorado salary details

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How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical in Colorado is $22.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the optical field, high-paying roles such as specialized ophthalmologists or optometrists with extensive experience and private practices can reach or exceed $500,000 annually. These positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong patient base, with income influenced by location, reputation, and business skills.

How much money do opticians get paid?

Opticians typically earn a median annual salary of around $37,000 to $40,000, depending on experience, location, and certification. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, such as fitting complex lenses or working in high-demand areas, and may include benefits like health insurance and paid time off.

What Is the Difference Between an Ophthalmologist, an Optometrist, and an Optician?

Optometrists and ophthalmologists are both medical eye care professionals, but they differ in their level of training. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors and complete eight years of medical school. They can practice medicine and perform surgery. Optometrists are not medical doctors. Optometrists earn a doctor of optometry degree after attending four years of optometry school. These professionals primarily perform eye exams and vision tests, but they can also identify some basic eye abnormalities. Optometrists are also licensed to prescribe some medications. Opticians are eyewear specialists and do not need any formal medical education.

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 strong understanding of optics, lens fabrication, and vision correction, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification. Familiarity with lensometers, auto-refractors, and optical dispensing software is typically required. Attention to detail, customer service skills, and effective communication help you excel when assisting patients and collaborating with eye care professionals. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate prescription fulfillment, patient satisfaction, and the smooth operation of optical services.

What is the difference between Optical vs Optometrist?

AspectOpticalOptometrist
CredentialsTypically requires optical technician or assistant certificationRequires Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and licensure
Work EnvironmentOptical stores, eyewear retail, labsClinics, private practices, healthcare settings
Industry UsageFocuses on eyewear fitting, lens selection, customer serviceFocuses on eye exams, vision testing, diagnosing eye conditions

Optical roles mainly involve assisting with eyewear and customer service, while optometrists provide comprehensive eye care and diagnosis. Both are essential in eye health but differ significantly in education and scope of practice.

How much does a non licensed optician make at Costco?

A non-licensed optician at Costco typically earns around $15 to $20 per hour, depending on experience and location. They assist with frame selection, lens ordering, and customer service in the optical department, often working under the supervision of a licensed optician or optometrist.

What are optical jobs?

Optical jobs refer to roles within the vision care and eyewear industry, such as opticians, optical assistants, and technicians. These professionals help customers select and fit eyeglasses or contact lenses, assist with vision tests, and provide support to optometrists and ophthalmologists. They may also perform repairs and adjustments on eyewear and educate customers about lens options and eye care. Working in optical jobs typically requires strong customer service skills and a basic understanding of eye anatomy and optical products.

What are some common challenges faced by optical technicians, and how can they effectively address them?

Optical technicians often encounter challenges such as keeping up with evolving lens technologies, managing high volumes of customer orders, and ensuring precise fabrication and fitting of eyewear. Staying updated through ongoing training and certifications is essential to handle new equipment and materials. Additionally, strong communication and organizational skills help in coordinating with optometrists and delivering excellent customer service. Collaborating closely with the rest of the optical team ensures that patient needs are met efficiently and accurately.

What are the different types of optical jobs?

Optical jobs include roles such as optometrists, opticians, optical technicians, and optical engineers. These positions involve tasks like eye examinations, lens fitting, optical device design, and quality testing, often requiring specialized training or certification. The work environment can range from clinics and retail stores to manufacturing labs and research facilities.
More about Optical jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical jobs in Colorado? For Optical jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Optical jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Optical jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Optical job openings:
Optical jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,890 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Electro-Optical Technician

Electro-Optical Technician

nLIGHT

Longmont, CO

$30 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Location:Longmont, CO (onsite)
Experience:1-3 years of professional and/or academic optical/laser experience.
Minimum Education: H.S. Diploma or GED required; Associate Degree or Technical Certification is a plus.
Compensation:$30-$45/hour depending on experience.
Who We Are
nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is one of the nation's leading developers of Directed Energy systems, which is a top modernization priority of the Department of Defense. Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment of high energy laser solutions to the United States military and our allies. Located in Longmont, Colorado, nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is a vertically integrated business that leverages internal capabilities - from semiconductor device through target identification - to develop systems that are both high-performance and cost-effective. We continue to invest in capabilities, facilities and technology to bring leading edge HEL solutions to the warfighter. This is a great opportunity to work at a company that is on the leading edge of the HEL industry and provides a culture of excellence and commitment to delivering solutions to the warfighter and our country.
Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
Summary:
We are seeking an organized, motivated individual to serve as an Electro-Optical (EO) Technician supporting our advanced high-energy laser beam control systems. This role will predominantly support electro-optical engineers in system assembly, integration, alignment, test apparatus setup and documentation across multiple subsystems. The successful candidate will perform hands-on assembly of opto-mechanical packages; inspect, mount and bond optics; assist with alignment of multi-element optical trains construct test fixtures; and generate process documentation while gaining exposure to the full system lifecycle in a leading edge laser systems environment.
Under close supervision, you will help ensure that components and subsystems meet schedule, quality and performance goals. Ideal candidates are capable of independently accomplishing assigned tasks, will identify process improvement opportunities, and are eager to participate in highly cross-functional assembly and test activities.
All applicants must possess or be qualified to obtain a U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Preference will be given to candidates with an existing U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance.Further information on requirements to obtain a security clearance is available at:https://www.dcsa.mil/mc/pv/mbi/gicp/.Please review this information before applying.
Responsibilities:
  • Assist in the construction, alignment, and testing of optical and electro-optical components and assemblies (mirrors, lenses, waveplates, dichroics, etc.) in clean-room environment.
  • Operate standard alignment and test equipment (autocollimators, interferometers, beam profilers, spectrophotometers, optical spectrum analyzers).
  • Perform mechanical and optical assembly tasks including mounting optical elements, mount assembly, and installation of opto-mechanical sub-assemblies into larger assemblies
  • Assist in performing visual inspections, verifying component cleanliness standards, parts traceability, and basic troubleshooting of mechanical or optical anomalies.
  • Maintain cleanroom cleanliness standards and ensure optics and mechanics are handled per contamination control.
  • Support maintenance and calibration of production tooling and equipment
  • Work collaboratively with optical, electrical, mechanical, and software engineering teams, to support schedule milestones and system level integration.
  • Generate documentation including integration photos, alignment logs, work instruction updates, assembly travelers, and data backups.
  • Participate in continuous improvement activities spanning process refinements, clean-room ergonomics, production documentation improvements, and assist in implementing corrective actions when directed.
  • Strong communication and technical writing skills.
Required Experience / Capability:
  • Commitment to Excellence. Attention to Detail. Pride in Workmanship.
  • Basic experience or coursework demonstrating hands-on work with optics, lasers, lenses/waveplates, fiber optics, optical mounts, or electro-optical systems.
  • Capable of working in a clean-room environment (ISO-7 or better) and adherence to contamination control (garments, gloves, eyewear, cleanliness).
  • Strong attention to detail, ability to follow structured work instructions and maintain high standards of workmanship.
  • Develop, refine, and document assembly processes, work instructions, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Willingness to learn, grow technical skills, and take direction from senior staff.
Additional Desired Experience / Capability:
  • Basic familiarity with optical alignment or metrology equipment (interferometers, spectrophotometers, autocollimators, etc.)
  • Previous employment, internship, or academic experience in laser/optics and instrumentation.
  • Associates degree in Optics & Laser Technology, Physics Technician, Electro-Optics Technology, Engineering Technology or equivalent combination of education/training and hands-on experience (1-3 years).
  • Experience bonding optical elements into larger assemblies.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently or under minimal guidance provided an outlined work instruction and training.
  • Experience with optic handling, optical alignment, interferometry and metrology tools.
  • MATLAB, ZEMAX, and/or SolidWorks experience a plus.
  • Understanding of optical fundamentals (beam propagation, alignment, wavefront concepts) and experience in basic troubleshooting.
  • Familiarity with documentation practices (travellers, test logs), and quality culture.
Benefits Summary:
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
  • 11 paid Holidays
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents
  • Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100%
  • Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster:Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources atHR@nlightdefense.com.
Employment Type: Full-Time Regular

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