ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optics Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Anonymous Employer

Technician

Shakopee, MN

$30 - $34/hr

Build samples of fiber optic products and support moderate levels of production assembly. * Complete samples and production assemblies per the required timeline. * Collect, read, and record product ...

3M

Optics Research Scientist

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

Optics Research Scientist Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

3M

Optics Research Scientist

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$124K - $151K/yr

Optics Research Scientist Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

Optician Pay rate is $15.00 to $21.00 per hour Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Hutchinson, MN · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

Optician Pay rate is $15.00 to $21.00 per hour Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

Optician Pay rate is $15.00 to $21.00 per hour Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Red Wing, MN · On-site

$16 - $22.40/hr

Optician Pay rate is $16.00 to $22.40 per hour Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Marshall, MN · On-site

$16 - $22.40/hr

Optician Pay rate is $16.00 to $22.40 per hour Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Duluth, MN · On-site

$16 - $22.40/hr

Optician Rate is $16 - $22.40 per hour Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Willmar, MN · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

Optician Pay rate is $15.00 to $21.00 per hour Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Red Wing, MN · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

Optician Pay rate is $15.00 to $21.00 per hour Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$16 - $22.40/hr

Optician Pay rate is $16.00 to $22.40 per hour Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$16 - $22.40/hr

Optician Pay rate is $16.00 to $22.40 per hour It all starts in our centers, where our dedicated team members combine state-of-the-art technology, exceptional eye care, and hometown Midwestern values ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Wadena, MN · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

Optician Pay rate is $15.00 to $21.00 per hour It all starts in our centers, where our dedicated team members combine state-of-the-art technology, exceptional eye care, and hometown Midwestern values ...

Mcgreevy Incorporated

Optician

Minneapolis, MN

$16.50/hr

Position Overview The Optician plays a critical role in the patient experience by guiding patients through frame selection, lens options, and final fittings. This position combines technical ...

Mcgreevy Incorporated

Optician

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Position Overview The Optician plays a critical role in the patient experience by guiding patients through frame selection, lens options, and final fittings. This position combines technical ...

Shopko Optical

PT Optical Sales Associate

Wadena, MN · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

Optician Pay rate is $15.00 to $21.00 per hour Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptics JobsOptics Jobs in Minnesota

Optics information

See Minnesota salary details

$81.3K

$140.7K

$165K

How much do optics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for optics in Minnesota is $140,654.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $126,300.00 and $163,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is optics?

Optics jobs involve working with the science and technology of light, including its generation, manipulation, transmission, and detection. Professionals in this field may work as optical engineers, technicians, or researchers, designing lenses, lasers, fiber optics, and imaging systems for applications in industries like telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, and defense. These roles often require a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering, and they can be found in both research and practical, hands-on settings.

What is a job in optics?

A job in optics involves designing, testing, and manufacturing optical devices such as lenses, microscopes, and lasers. Professionals in this field often work in research, development, or manufacturing environments and may require knowledge of physics, engineering, and specialized tools like optical testing equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optics engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optics Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and optical engineering, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laser systems, and photonics instrumentation is commonly required, along with relevant certifications. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating on complex projects and conveying technical information. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing innovative optical systems, ensuring precision, and meeting project requirements in industries like telecommunications, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Is optics a good career?

Optics is a specialized field within physics and engineering that involves designing and developing optical systems, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. It offers opportunities in research, manufacturing, and technology development, often requiring strong technical skills and knowledge of physics and mathematics. The career can be stable and well-paying for those with relevant education and experience.

What jobs use optics?

Jobs that use optics include optical engineers, laser technicians, and photonics scientists, who design, develop, and test optical systems and devices. These roles often require knowledge of optics principles, precision measurement tools, and sometimes security clearances or specialized certifications. Industries include telecommunications, aerospace, medical devices, and defense.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in optics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in optics often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies, ensuring precision in measurements and alignments, and troubleshooting complex optical systems. To address these issues, it's important to stay current through continued education, collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, and develop strong problem-solving skills. Many optics roles also emphasize hands-on experience and the ability to adapt to new tools or software, so proactive learning and effective communication are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Optics vs Optical Technician?

AspectOpticsOptical Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in physics, optics, or related fieldOften requires a certificate or associate degree in optical technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, academiaOptical labs, manufacturing facilities, retail optical stores
Industry UsageResearch, development, manufacturing of optical devicesAssembly, testing, and fitting of optical instruments and eyewear

Optics generally refers to the scientific study and development of light and optical systems, often requiring advanced education. Optical Technicians focus on assembling, testing, and maintaining optical devices, typically with technical certifications. While both roles work within the optical industry, Optics is more research-oriented, whereas Optical Technicians are more hands-on in manufacturing and service environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optics jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Optics jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Optics jobs in Minnesota? For Optics jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optics jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Optics jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Optics jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Optics job openings:
Optics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optics job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,654 per year, or $67.6 per hour.

Technician

Anonymous Employer

Shakopee, MN

$30 - $34/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

General Summary:

  • This position is responsible for working with engineers to build prototypes and moderate production levels of fiber optic products, and assist in developing manufacturing processes.

  • The position also requires occasional inspection of plastic and stamped components with inspection equipment.

  • Build samples of fiber optic products and support moderate levels of production assembly.

  • Complete samples and production assemblies per the required timeline.

  • Collect, read, and record product test data in the data systems or Excel spreadsheets.

  • Give feedback and suggestions on manufacturing processes and product designs, and assist in performing failure analysis.

  • Support inspection measurements of plastic and stamped metal parts on inspection equipment and record data in Excel spreadsheets.

  • Utilize Microsoft Excel and Word at an appropriate level.

  • Communicate issues in a timely manner to the engineer or operations lead.

  • Other Department Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Exhibit a level of competency with a broad range manufacturing tools and equipment, lab test equipment, and fiber optic products, after some training.

  • Follow department safety and efficiency programs.

  • Complete training in lab processes, procedures and test methods, as required.

  • Collaboration with current lab staff, which includes other engineers and technicians in a team-oriented environment.

  • Familiarity with fiber optic products and understand internal and external customer expectations.

  • May train other technicians and operators.

Required Qualifications

  • Associates degree in related curriculum such as mechanical engineering technician, electronic systems technician, metrology technician, etc or related experience in a similar industrial organization.

  • Solid communication skills including excellent writing skills and fluency in English.

  • Good eye/hand coordination to build the fiber optic products.

  • Basic computer skills with Microsoft Office.

  • Skilled at planning and ability to pay attention to details.

  • Ability to effectively work within a team environment.

  • May be required to do physical lifting up to 40 pounds.

  • Some level of experience working with electrical or fiber optic wire products, and smaller components.

ID:qnkTyx