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Optical Jobs in Fairfield, CA (NOW HIRING)

As an Optical Assembly Technician for the Extreme Precision Optics Group in Richmond, CA, you will generate a consistent flow of high-quality work performing assembly operations consisting of optical ...

Optical Assembly Tech

Hilltop Mall, CA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

As an Optical Assembly Technician for the Extreme Precision Optics Group in Richmond, CA, you will generate a consistent flow of high-quality work performing assembly operations consisting of optical ...

As an Optical Assembly Technician for the Extreme Precision Optics Group in Richmond, CA, you will generate a consistent flow of high-quality work performing assembly operations consisting of optical ...

As an Optical Assembly Technician for the Extreme Precision Optics Group in Richmond, CA, you will generate a consistent flow of high-quality work performing assembly operations consisting of optical ...

As an Optical Assembly Technician for the Extreme Precision Optics Group in Richmond, CA, you will generate a consistent flow of high-quality work performing assembly operations consisting of optical ...

Sr. Optical Engineer, R&D

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

You will own optical system design and help drive critical optical investigations for our hardware platform. This role is centered on optical expertise first. We are looking for someone who can bring ...

Sr. Optical Engineer, R&D

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

You will own optical system design and help drive critical optical investigations for our hardware platform. This role is centered on optical expertise first. We are looking for someone who can bring ...

Optics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

You will design stable, production‑grade optical systems that integrate tightly with mechanical structures, electronics, firmware, and data systems -- and you will be accountable for their ...

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Optical information

See Fairfield, CA salary details

$11

$21

$37

How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical in Fairfield, CA is $21.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $23.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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 long is schooling to become an optical?

Becoming an optical technician typically requires completing a post-secondary program or certificate that lasts from several months up to a year. For opticians, the process often involves completing an associate degree or a specialized training program, followed by certification or licensing depending on the state or country. Practical experience and knowledge of optical equipment are also important components of training.

Is optical technician a good career?

Optical technicians assist in the fabrication, repair, and fitting of eyeglasses and optical devices, often working in retail or laboratory settings. The role typically requires technical training or certification and offers steady employment with opportunities for advancement in the eye care industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Fairfield, CA?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Fairfield, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical jobs in Fairfield, CA?

For Optical jobs in Fairfield, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical jobs in Fairfield, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical jobs in Fairfield, CA are:

What cities near Fairfield, CA are hiring for Optical jobs?

Cities near Fairfield, CA with the most Optical job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical job openings in Fairfield, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,381 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Optical Mech Technician

Yoh - A Day & Zimmerman Company

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$65/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Optical Technician
Planet is seeking a highly skilled Contract Optical Technician to support the integration and testing of optical payloads for the Pelican satellite program. This role is focused on the tactical execution of telescope and camera assembly, alignment, and characterization. We are looking for a precision-oriented technician who excels in a cleanroom environment and has a proven track record of handling delicate flight optics and complex opto-mechanical assemblies.
Impact You ll Own
  • Payload Integration and Assembly: Execute the high-precision assembly of telescopes and focal plane arrays, including the delicate bonding of optics using RTV and aerospace-grade epoxies.
  • Optical Characterization: Perform ground-based testing of cameras and telescopes for image quality, MTF, and radiometric performance following established test procedures.
  • Precision Metrology: Utilize and maintain optical test stations, including the use of interferometers, wavefront sensors, collimators, and integrating spheres to ensure payload performance.
  • Fixture Assembly: Build and maintain opto-mechanical and electrical test fixtures to support the high-volume production and verification of Pelican payloads.
  • Data Recording: Meticulously record test results and prepare data summaries for engineering review, ensuring all anomalies are captured and reported via Jira or in-house software.
  • Component Handling: Proficiently handle, measure, and clean sensitive optical components according to strict cleanroom and laboratory safety protocols.
  • Collaborative Debugging: Work closely with Manufacturing and Test Engineers to troubleshoot opto-mechanical or electrical failures identified during the build or test cycle.
What You Bring
  • Experience: Proven background in optics and optical assemblies, specifically within a high-precision manufacturing or aerospace environment.
  • High-Reliability Bonding: Professional experience with the precision application of RTV and epoxies for mounting and securing optical elements.
  • Alignment Expertise: Solid understanding of optical alignment techniques and the use of metrology equipment to verify image quality metrics.
  • Laboratory Discipline: A methodical approach to following complex, detailed test procedures exactly as written, with no unauthorized deviations.
  • Mechanical Aptitude: Proficiency with mechanical tools, fixtures, and the ability to read and interpret both mechanical and electrical drawings/schematics.
  • Documentation Accuracy: Impeccable organizational skills with a focus on recording accurate, detailed test descriptions and data manipulation.
  • Hardware Sensitivity: Extreme care when handling flight-critical optics and a deep understanding of ESD-safe and cleanroom best practices.
What Makes You Stand Out
  • Educational Background: Degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.
  • Spacecraft Payload Experience: Previous experience working on satellite telescopes, focal planes, or mission-critical camera systems.
  • Advanced Debugging: Ability to perform root-cause analysis on complex opto-mechanical systems and electrical cable/harness assemblies.
  • Software Familiarity: Basic experience with Python or lab automation tools to assist in data collection and test station operation.
  • Soldering Proficiency: Experience with PCB soldering and the assembly of delicate electronics associated with optical sensors.

Estimated Min Rate: $50.00
Estimated Max Rate: $65.00
What s In It for You?
We welcome you to be a part of the largest and legendary global staffing companies to meet your career aspirations. Yoh s network of client companies has been employing professionals like you for over 65 years in the U.S., UK and Canada. Join Yoh s extensive talent community that will provide you with access to Yoh s vast network of opportunities and gain access to this exclusive opportunity available to you. Benefit eligibility is in accordance with applicable laws and client requirements. Benefits include:
  • Medical, Prescription, Dental & Vision Benefits (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
  • Life & Disability Insurance (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
  • MetLife Voluntary Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Direct Deposit & weekly epayroll
  • Referral Bonus Programs
  • Certification and training opportunities

Note: Any pay ranges displayed are estimations. Actual pay is determined by an applicant's experience, technical expertise, and other qualifications as listed in the job description. All qualified applicants are welcome to apply.
Yoh, a Day & Zimmermann company, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
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For California applicants, qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act. All of the material job duties described in this posting are job duties for which a criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship potentially resulting in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment.
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