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Precision Optical Machinist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Diamond Turning Machinist

Richmond, CA ยท On-site

$24.50 - $33.50/hr

As a Diamond Turning Machinist at Zygo Extreme Precision Optics in Richmond, CA, you will work with single-point diamond turning equipment to manufacture high precision optical components. KEY ...

Reporting to the Value Stream Manager of Diamond Point Turning, the Machining Technician will set up and operate CNC equipment, meeting precision optical component specifications outlined in the work ...

Reporting to the Value Stream Manager of Diamond Point Turning, the Machining Technician will set up and operate CNC equipment, meeting precision optical component specifications outlined in the work ...

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Precision Optical Machinist information

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How much do precision optical machinist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for precision optical machinist in the United States is $31.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.84 and $37.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a precision optical machinist?

Precision Optical Machinists are specialized technicians who fabricate, modify, and finish high-precision optical components, such as lenses, mirrors, and prisms, used in instruments like microscopes, cameras, and lasers. They operate advanced machinery and use manual techniques to achieve extremely tight tolerances and smooth surface finishes required for optical performance. Their work is critical in industries such as aerospace, defense, medical devices, and scientific research. Precision Optical Machinists must have a keen eye for detail, strong math skills, and a solid understanding of materials and fabrication processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a precision optical machinist?

To thrive as a Precision Optical Machinist, you need expertise in machining techniques, blueprint reading, and a thorough understanding of optical fabrication processes, often supported by technical training or an associate degree. Familiarity with CNC machines, interferometers, profilometers, and precision measurement tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong manual dexterity are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the production of high-quality optical components with tight tolerances, which are critical for applications in industries such as aerospace, medical devices, and scientific research.

What are some common challenges faced by precision optical machinists in maintaining tight tolerances, and how are they typically addressed?

Precision Optical Machinists often face challenges in maintaining extremely tight tolerances due to factors such as material inconsistencies, equipment calibration, and environmental conditions like temperature fluctuations. To address these, machinists routinely inspect and calibrate their tools, use cleanroom environments to control dust and humidity, and employ advanced measurement instruments like interferometers for quality assurance. Collaborating closely with engineering and quality teams also helps ensure that any deviations are caught early and corrective actions are taken promptly.

What cities are hiring for Precision Optical Machinist jobs?

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What states have the most Precision Optical Machinist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Precision Optical Machinist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Precision Optical Machinist jobs?

For Precision Optical Machinist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Precision Optical Machinist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,188 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Optical Technician (Precision Assembly & Laser Alignment)

Rochester, NY โ€ข On-site

Quality Vision International Inc
Machinery Manufacturingย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description

Discover Your Next Big Opportunity: See Why Quality Vision International Is the Place to Be!

What Emma Had to Say About Our Optics Department!

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:30am-4:00pm

Compensation: $22.00 to $30.00 based on experience.

Location: Rochester, NY On-Site


As a Precision Optical Technician, you will assemble, test, and troubleshoot high-precision optical, opto-mechanical, and opto-electro-mechanical systems. This role is critical to ensuring every product meets exact performance specifications and the highest quality standards.

We are hiring multiple levels, including experienced Level III Technicians.


ย Surface fit and system transmission wavefront testing on the interferometer

ย Laser alignment of lens into cells and stacking of cells

ย Coating and LED wavelength testing using a spectrometer

ย Opto-electrical and opto-mechanical assembly, test and calibration

ย Handling and cleaning of fiber optics.

Receive direction from Manager/Supervisor, following dispatch and coaching from fellow coworkers in order to build product to meet production demand.

Assembly of optical, opto-mechanical, and opto-electro-mechanical assemblies as required by work instructions.

Perform testing of assemblies and record performance data.

Account for components and materials provided for assembly jobs, keeping jobs organized and reporting labor.

Account for tools and supplies provided for use at designated work center(s), reporting back to management any identified problems, missing or broken tools or shortage of supplies.

Maintain high level of cleanliness in work center and parts produced.

Report quality issues when noticed to ensure product quality.

Support Quality issues through NCPs and RMAs.

Support Engineering in new product development, help transition to production.

Identify and eliminate sources of waste within your area and sphere of influence. Suggest new improved processes, workflows, test protocols, etc. to management to improve efficiency and quality and help meet department lean manufacturing objectives.

Work with company software.

Provide technical support and guidance to other Optical Technicians as needed. (Level III)

Perform advanced troubleshooting on assemblies and initiate proper measures to correct. (Level III)

Support ISO and 5s, and Lean initiatives as required. (Level III)

Experience with lens stacking, laser alignment, clean room and interferometry is preferred

Requirements

Associate degree in technology specialty such as machine tools, electronics, Optics, etc.

OR

High school diploma or equivalent plus 5 years' experience in optical inspection or assembly. (10 years experience for Level III)

Positive attitude.

Ability to clean and handle Optics equipment, coated optics and components.

Excellent communications skills both written and verbal.

Basic math (addition/subtraction/division/multiplication/fractions/decimals/percentages), Units of Measure (English and Metric), and conversions between

Basic hand tools: wrenches, spanner wrenches, torque wrenches, screwdrivers.

Basic metrology instruments: calipers, micrometers, scales, dial indicators, gage blocks

Commitment to care and use of sensitive, delicate, tools and instruments

Use of analytical skills for identifying problems.

Organization and neatness of assigned assembly work area.

Basic computer literacy and ability to navigate through use of browsers.

Ability to learn more advanced computer skills and company-specific software.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: The Level 3 Technician is an independent worker with focus on quality and speed of workmanship. They will meet all requirements of Level 2 Technician, plus the following:

Ability to independently work on multiple product lines and train others.

Familiarity with most of the following optical metrology instruments: laser alignment systems, optical power meters, interferometers, autocollimators and spectrometers.

Experience cementing doublets and stacking lenses with a high degree of precision. (preferred)

Experience in applying the inspection, assembly and alignment skills defined above in a product development environment.

Experience in process development, process writing.

Ability to troubleshoot at an intermediate level. I.e., based on system level understanding.

Ability to walk through several software platforms.

Advanced interferometry and QVI testing.

Ability to lead and train, including identifying issues and problem resolution.

ย  Experience with lens stacking, laser alignment, clean room and interferometry is preferredย 



Physical and/or Environmental Requirements:

Ability to work standing up for extended periods of time (8 hours per workday)

Physical strength to lift up to 35 lbs. without requiring assistance.

Proficient manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for precise optical assembly work.

Willingness to grow and take on new responsibilities.


What We Offer

Paid Time Off

10 paid holidays each year

Over 3 weeks of PTO (vacation/sick/personal) to start, with additional time after 5 and 10 years


Health & Financial Benefits

Health coverage where QVI pays 97-100% of premiums on our most affordable HDHP - free single coverage for employees!

Employer-paid Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance

Employer-paid Life Insuranceย 

ย QVI 401k Retirement Savings Plan: Up to 5% gross wagesย 

Tuition Reimbursement: up to $7,000 annually

College Scholarship Programs for employee dependents

Annual discretionary bonuses (for non-commission roles)

$1,500 Employee Referral Bonus


Wellness & Extras

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) & Wellness perks: on-site nurse, biometric screenings, chronic condition support, and cash incentives for healthy living programs and challenges

Free on-site electric vehicle charging stations and cash reimbursement toward the purchase of qualified EVs



Quality Vision International Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.