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Optics Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

IDEX

Optical Fabricator

West Henrietta, NY

Optical Fabricator This role is onsite and nonexempt. This role reports to the Glass Shop Supervisor Why Work for Us * Be part of a team driving innovation in advanced materials and thin-film ...

L3Harris Technologies

Lead, Optical Engineering

Bergen, NY · On-site

$125K - $162K/yr

Lead, 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 the design ...

Corning

Optical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY

$112K - $155K/yr

Experiences/Education - Required * BS, MS, or PhD in Optics, Optical Engineering, or a closely related field. * 5+ years of industry experience in optical design engineering, working on the full life ...

Corning

Optical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$112K - $155K/yr

Experiences/Education - Required * BS, MS, or PhD in Optics, Optical Engineering, or a closely related field. * 5+ years of industry experience in optical design engineering, working on the full life ...

Corning

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Experience in optics or precision optics manufacturing * Familiarity with G-code, Mastercam, or similar programming tools * Knowledge of optical metrology equipment such as interferometers ...

L3Harris Technologies

Lead, Optical Engineering

Palmyra, NY

$133K - $172K/yr

Lead, 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 the design ...

Corning

Optical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$112K - $155K/yr

Experiences/Education - Required * BS, MS, or PhD in Optics, Optical Engineering, or a closely related field. * 5+ years of industry experience in optical design engineering, working on the full life ...

L3Harris Technologies

Lead, Optical Engineering

Rochester, NY · On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

Lead, 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 the design ...

Corning

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Fairport, NY

$84K - $116K/yr

Experience in optics or precision optics manufacturing * Familiarity with G-code, Mastercam, or similar programming tools * Knowledge of optical metrology equipment such as interferometers ...

Corning

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Experience in optics or precision optics manufacturing * Familiarity with G-code, Mastercam, or similar programming tools * Knowledge of optical metrology equipment such as interferometers ...

Sydor Optics Inc.

Quality Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$75K - $88K/yr

Quality Engineer About Sydor Optics Sydor Optics, Inc. is a Rochester-based leader in flat-surfaced precision optics with more than 60 years of innovation and manufacturing excellence. Operating from ...

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All JobsOptics JobsOptics Jobs in Rochester, NY

Optics information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$81.9K

$141.7K

$166.3K

How much do optics jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 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:
Optics jobs near you
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.

Optical Technician

Https://www.sydor.com/

Rochester, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

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 from the Greater Rochester International Airport, we support cutting-edge industries including defense & aerospace, semiconductor, medical, entertainment, and more.

At Sydor, your work matters. You'll collaborate with talented professionals, solve complex challenges, and help deliver custom optical solutions that power today's most advanced technologies.

We reward performance and dedication with a competitive salary, a results-driven incentive program, and an exceptional benefits package. Our benefits include 100% employer-paid medical coverage with a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA), dental and vision insurance, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, and a Safe Harbor 401(k) plan with employer match.

If you're motivated, hands-on, and ready to grow with a stable company that invests in its people, we want to hear from you.

Discover your future with Sydor Optics at www.sydor.com.

Position Description

The Optical Technician provides process support to manufacturing by working with SME's, Quality and Engineering to support both internal and external customers.

Qualifications

Education/Certifications:

Associates degree in Optics or equivalent. 3-5 years' experience preferred.

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience:

  1. Good visual acuity.
  2. Ability to read and interpret basic drawing.
  3. Good people skills and a collaborator.
  4. Optical manufacturing background in grinding, polishing and/or machining.

Essential Functions

  1. Lead process improvement and R&D projects coordinating with engineering and Quality control.
  2. Perform visual optical inspection for surface quality.
  3. Review job card (router) for completeness and accuracy.
  4. Perform optical metrology (interferometric, surface roughness, optical smartscope, beam deviation, etc.).
  5. Coordinate with SME's on difficult or problem projects.
  6. Ability to operate machines independently.
  7. In-process verification for control of production processes.
  8. Perform other duties as assigned and needed.

Apply