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Optics Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Provide engineering support for PVD optical coating production, spanning development, production support, and process sustainment. • Work closely with ...

Clean Room Specialist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

This position ensures products meet Syntec Optics' stringent cleanliness, quality, and customer requirements while maintaining compliance with clean room protocols and company procedures. Essential ...

Senior Glass CNC Machinist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities • Set up and operate CNC equipment used to machine optical glass components. • Edit and optimize CNC programs to improve cycle times, quality, and efficiency ...

Package and ship optical components. * Operate equipment to manufacture high volume production parts. * Clean and visually inspect diamond turned lenses. * Inspect lenses using metrology equipment.

Tool Maker

Rochester, NY · On-site

$26.25 - $33.75/hr

Design, fabricate, and maintain precision tooling, jigs, fixtures, and molds used in optical component manufacturing. * Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications to ...

Tool Maker

Rochester, NY · On-site

$26.25 - $33.75/hr

Design, fabricate, and maintain precision tooling, jigs, fixtures, and molds used in optical component manufacturing. * Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications to ...

Sydor Optics, Inc. is a Rochester-based leader in flat-surfaced precision optics with over 60 years of innovation and manufacturing excellence. From our modern facility in Chili, NY, just minutes ...

Sydor Optics, Inc. is a Rochester-based leader in flat-surfaced precision optics with over 60 years of innovation and manufacturing excellence. From our modern facility in Chili, NY, just minutes ...

Position Summary The Technical Sales Associate supports business development, customer engagement, and sales activities for Syntec Optics' advanced optics, photonics, and precision manufacturing ...

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Optics information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$81.9K

$141.7K

$166.3K

How much do optics jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for optics in Rochester, NY is $141,696.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $164,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a career in optics?

A career in optics involves designing, developing, and testing optical systems and devices such as lenses, lasers, and imaging equipment. Professionals in this field often work in research, manufacturing, or applied sciences, requiring knowledge of physics, engineering, and specialized tools like optical software and measurement instruments.

What are optics jobs?

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 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.

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

In the field of optics, high-paying roles such as senior research scientists, optical engineering directors, or executives in optics-related companies can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require specialized skills, advanced certifications, and management experience in research, development, or manufacturing environments.

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 careers use optics?

Careers that use optics include optical engineers, laser technicians, and photonics scientists, who design and develop optical systems, devices, and technologies. These roles often require knowledge of optics principles, precision measurement tools, and sometimes specialized certifications or degrees in physics or engineering.

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.

Is optics in demand?

Optics jobs are in demand across industries such as telecommunications, defense, healthcare, and manufacturing, driven by advancements in laser technology, imaging systems, and optical communication. Skills in optical design, alignment, and proficiency with tools like CAD software can enhance employment prospects in this field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optics jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Optics jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Optics jobs in Rochester, NY? For Optics jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optics jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Optics jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Optics jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Optics job openings:
Infographic showing various Optics job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,696 per year, or $68.1 per hour.
Precision Optics Technician (Advanced)

Precision Optics Technician (Advanced)

L3Harris Technologies

Rochester, NY • On-site

$54K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Precision Optics Technician (Advanced)

Job Code: 39306

Job Location: Rochester, NY

Job Schedule: 5/8 Mon-Fri

Job Description:

L3Harris's Optics department in Rochester, NY is seeking a dedicated Optics Manufacturing Technician to support the production of top-tier optical components for advanced astronomical, high-energy laser, and Earth imaging applications. You will work closely with engineers, operate precise optical equipment, and inspect components to ensure exceptional quality. Join a team of innovators in precision optics and contribute to groundbreaking projects. If you have a keen eye for detail and a passion for optical technology, apply now to advance your career with us in this exciting and dynamic field.

Essential Functions:

Operate assigned optical manufacturing equipment in accordance with manufacturing procedures, build documents, and safety requirements
Perform non-routine setups of precision optical components and assemblies to verify conformance to specifications and drawings
Measure critical dimensions using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and other precision instruments
Interpret drawings, specifications, and work instructions to validate manufacturing criteria
Support development trials and process experiments under engineer direction and document results clearly and accurately
Collaborate with manufacturing and engineering teams to communicate quality issues and support root cause investigations
Adjust manufacturing equipment parameters within defined bounds to meet requirements, understand cause/effect, and troubleshoot process issues to restore process stability
Ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain a clean and organized work environment
Follow Total Productive Maintenance guidelines for manufacturing equipment and ensure calibration status is current

Qualifications:

High School Diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 6 years of prior relevant experience; Or, 2 years post-Secondary/Associates Degree with a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience
Ability to perform advanced setups and execute complex work across multiple fabrication processes
Ability to troubleshoot common process problems and restore stable execution within defined process limits
Ability to apply in-process measurement and verification requirements with sound judgment
Ability to support less experienced technicians and communicate setup, handling, and process expectations clearly

Preferred Additional Skills:

Experience with multiple optics fabrication processes and non-routine setups
Practical understanding of how wheel condition, dressing, slurry or coolant, and fixture setup affect process stability and part quality
Experience supporting trials, process improvements, or floor-level corrective actions
Experience in a quality system environment (e.g., documented processes, sign-offs, traceability)

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in New York state is $54,500-$101,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

The application window for this requisition is anticipated to close September 09, 2026.

#LI-CG1

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

Employment Type: Full-Time