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Optical Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an experienced Optical Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and optimization of optical systems for a variety of applications and advanced technologies. This role involves ...

We are seeking an experienced Optical Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and optimization of optical systems for a variety of applications and advanced technologies. This role involves ...

Senior Specialist, Optical Engineering

Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$97K - $180K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Senior Specialist, Optical Engineering Job Code: 39683 Job Location: Rochester, New York Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every Other Friday Off!) We are looking for a motivated Lead Optical Engineer to support ...

Development Manager, Optical Metrology

Fairport, NY

$147K - $202K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Optical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY

$112K - $155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Development Manager, Optical Fabrication

Fairport, NY ยท On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

We are seeking an experienced Optical Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and optimization of optical systems for a variety of applications and advanced technologies. This role involves ...

Development Manager, Optical Metrology

Fairport, NY ยท On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Optical Lab Technician

Rochester, NY

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

As an Optical Lab Technician at Navitar in Rochester, NY , you will be responsible for technical functions related to calibration, alignment, fabrication, assembly and modification of optical ...

Development Manager, Optical Metrology

Fairport, NY

$147K - $202K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Development Manager, Optical Metrology

Fairport, NY

$202K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Development Manager, Optical Fabrication

Fairport, NY

$147K - $202K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Development Manager, Optical Fabrication

Fairport, NY

$202K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Development Manager, Optical Metrology

Fairport, NY ยท On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Lead, Optical Engineering - Stray light

Rochester, NY

$127K - $164K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead, Optical Engineering - Stray light Job Code: 39678 Job Location: Rochester, NY Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every Other Friday Off!) We are seeking a highly motivated Lead Optical Engineer to support the ...

Optical Waveguide Engineer

West Henrietta, NY ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Characterize and test micro-displays, projector systems, optical subsystems, and complete near-eye systems. * Develop and implement new test methods and procedures to support research, development ...

Development Manager, Optical Fabrication

Fairport, NY ยท On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Development Manager, Optical Fabrication

Fairport, NY

$147K - $202K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Showing results 21-40

Optical information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$10

$21

$36

How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical in Rochester, NY is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is optical technician a good career?

Optical technicians play a key role in manufacturing, repairing, and maintaining optical devices such as lenses and glasses. The profession typically requires technical training or certification and offers steady employment opportunities in healthcare and manufacturing sectors. Job prospects depend on industry demand and regional employment rates.

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.

What is a career in optics?

A career in optics involves working with the science and technology of light, including designing, testing, and manufacturing optical devices such as lenses, microscopes, and lasers. Professionals in this field often require knowledge of physics, engineering, and specialized tools, and may work in research, development, or manufacturing environments.

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 most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Optical jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Optical jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Optical job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,998 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Optics Designer

Syntec Optics

Rochester, NY โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job summary:

We are seeking an experienced Optical Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and optimization of optical systems for a variety of applications and advanced technologies. This role involves using industry-standard software (Zemax, Code-V, or equivalent) to model, simulate, and optimize optical designs. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical systems with mechanical, electrical, and software components while ensuring designs meet performance requirements and industry standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Design, analyze, and optimize optical systems using industry-standard software tools such as Zemax OpticStudio, Code-V, or equivalent.
  • Lead the design and execution of optical system and component testing, ensuring alignment with performance requirements.
  • Apply a deep understanding of optical principles, theories, and concepts to solve complex design challenges.
  • Analyze data sets and create tools for effective data visualization and manipulation.
  • Take a leadership role in guiding technical staff and making significant contributions to project outcomes.
  • Collaborate in a small, fast-paced team environment, bringing creativity and technical expertise to each project.
  • Utilize operating systems like Linux and Windows, and be proficient in MS Office (PowerPoint, Excel) and MATLAB.
  • Present technical results to internal teams, customers, and at workshops/conferences.
  • Performs other related duties and assignments as required.
Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk and/or hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle or feel. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch and/or crawl. The employee must also occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision and color vision. Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete and abstract variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.

The noise level in the work environment may range from low, moderate to loud.

Education, Skills, and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
  • 5-10 years of experience in optical design, modeling, and simulation.
  • Proficiency with optical design software (Zemax, Code V, LightTools, etc.).
  • Strong understanding of optical principles, including ray tracing, diffraction, and wave optics.
  • Experience with optical system testing and validation.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
  • Flexibility with working hours may be required to meet business needs and deadlines.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. He/she will be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other responsible duties as requested by his/her supervisor.

Syntec Technologies is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other reason prohibited by law.