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Precision Optical Technologies Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Optical Engineer

Dayton, OH ยท On-site

$110 - $160/hr

The successful candidate will play a key role in developing innovative optical solutions spanning imaging systems, laser-based systems, precision optics, and emerging photonic technologies. This ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Dayton, OH ยท On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

The successful candidate will play a key role in developing innovative optical solutions spanning imaging systems, laser-based systems, precision optics, and emerging photonic technologies. This ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI ยท On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY Optical Engineer working at RIT is responsible for developing precision optics technology and precision optics technology-based X-ray optics. These include the development of ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY Optical Engineer working at RIT is responsible for developing precision optics technology and precision optics technology-based X-ray optics. These include the development of ...

Optics Engineer - 888

Broomfield, CO ยท On-site

$80K - $101K/yr

Design, build, assemble, align, and characterize complex, high-precision optical subassemblies and ... optical technologies into production. * Support prototype development, sustaining engineering ...

Optics Engineer - 888

Broomfield, CO ยท On-site

$80.80 - $101/hr

Design, build, assemble, align, and characterize complex, high-precision optical subassemblies and ... optical technologies into production. * Support prototype development, sustaining engineering ...

Optics Engineer II - 894

Broomfield, CO ยท On-site

$102K - $128K/yr

Design, build, assemble, align, characterize, and validate complex, high-precision optical ... optical technologies into production. * Support prototype development, sustaining engineering ...

Optical Engineer

Charlottesville, VA ยท On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Through its Rayo platform of compact, precision microplate readers and the Canopy real-time ... Knowledge of photodetector technologies (photodiodes, silicon photomultipliers, etc.) and their ...

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Precision Optical Technologies information

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How much do precision optical technologies jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for precision optical technologies in the United States is $21.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are precision optical technologies?

Precision Optical Technologies refers to companies or roles specializing in the development, manufacturing, and integration of advanced optical components and systems. These technologies are crucial in industries like telecommunications, medical devices, defense, and scientific research, where high accuracy and reliability are essential. Professionals in this field may work on designing fiber optic networks, creating lenses and mirrors for scientific instruments, or developing optical sensors and imaging systems. The work often involves using sophisticated equipment and cutting-edge materials to achieve precise optical performance.

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

Professionals in Precision Optical Technologies often encounter challenges such as maintaining tight tolerances during manufacturing, ensuring optical alignment, and keeping up with rapid technological advancements. Addressing these issues requires meticulous attention to detail, strong collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams, and a commitment to ongoing training and skill development. Staying updated with industry standards and leveraging advanced inspection tools can also help maintain quality and efficiency in this highly specialized field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a precision optical technician, and why are they important?

To excel as a Precision Optical Technician, you need a solid background in optics, mathematics, and precision engineering, often supported by relevant technical training or an associate degree. Familiarity with optical fabrication equipment, laser alignment systems, and quality control instruments is essential, and certifications like Certified Optics Technician (COT) can be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong manual dexterity distinguish outstanding technicians in this field. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality optical components that meet strict specifications required in industries like telecommunications, defense, and medical devices.

What is the difference between Precision Optical Technologies vs Optical Technician?

AspectPrecision Optical TechnologiesOptical Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in optics, physics, or engineeringOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree in optics or related field
Work EnvironmentManufacturing labs, research facilities, quality controlOptical labs, manufacturing plants, assembly lines
Industry UsageUsed in high-precision manufacturing, research, and developmentInvolved in assembling, testing, and maintaining optical devices

Precision Optical Technologies and Optical Technicians both work within the optics industry, but Precision Optical Technologies typically refers to companies or roles focused on high-precision manufacturing and research, requiring advanced education. Optical Technicians perform hands-on assembly and testing, often with less formal education. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path or employer in the optics field.

What cities are hiring for Precision Optical Technologies jobs?

Cities with the most Precision Optical Technologies job openings:

What states have the most Precision Optical Technologies jobs?

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

What job categories do people searching Precision Optical Technologies jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Precision Optical Technologies jobs are:

Infographic showing various Precision Optical Technologies job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Senior Optical Engineer

Ravee Optics Inc

Dayton, OH โ€ข On-site

$110 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Ravee is seeking an experienced Senior Optical Engineer to lead the design, analysis, development, integration, and testing of advanced optical systems for commercial, aerospace, and defense applications. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing innovative optical solutions spanning imaging systems, laser-based systems, precision optics, and emerging photonic technologies.

This position offers the opportunity to work across the full product lifecycle from concept development and system architecture through prototype development, testing, and product transition while collaborating with a multidisciplinary engineering team to solve challenging optical system problems.

Primary responsibilities are to be performed in Dayton, OH. May consider hybrid position for qualified candidates.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the architecture, design, analysis, and optimization of complex optical systems and subsystems.
  • Develop system-level optical requirements, functional performance budgets, and design trade studies.
  • Perform optical modeling, tolerance analysis, stray light analysis, and performance optimization using industry-standard tools.
  • Design and specify optical components and systems, including lens assemblies, beam expanders, fiber collimators, and illumination systems.
  • Support prototype development, optical alignment, integration, characterization, and environmental testing.
  • Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, software, manufacturing, and systems engineering teams throughout product development.
  • Support technology roadmap development, customer engagements, technical proposals, and intellectual property generation.
  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership on multidisciplinary projects.
Required Qualifications
  • B.S. or M.S. or Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or a related technical discipline.
  • 3+ years of experience designing and developing advanced optical or electro-optical systems.
  • Strong understanding of geometric optics, physical optics, optical tolerancing, polarization, and imaging system performance.
  • Experience with optical design and analysis software such as Zemax OpticStudio, CODE V, FRED, or equivalent.
  • Experience with optical laboratory equipment, alignment techniques, and system characterization.
  • Programming or scripting experience using MATLAB, Python, or similar engineering tools.
  • Track record of excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work in multidisciplinary and hybrid teams.
Preferred Qualifications

Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:

  • Free-Space Optical Communications (FSOC)
  • Laser systems and photonics
  • Space-based or airborne optical systems
  • Electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) imaging systems
  • Precision optical instrumentation
  • Optical sensing and spectroscopy
  • Fiber-optic systems
  • Adaptive optics or beam control
  • Optical coatings and advanced optical materials
  • SWIR, MWIR, or LWIR optical systems
  • Metasurfaces, diffractive optics, or metaoptics
  • Optical manufacturing, assembly, and qualification
  • Systems engineering for aerospace or defense applications
  • Experience with environmental qualification or flight hardware
  • Ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary and equity participation
  • Opportunity to develop next-generation optical technologies with real-world impact
  • Collaborative, multidisciplinary engineering environment
  • Technical leadership opportunities and significant system ownership
  • Flexible work arrangements
  • Professional development and career growth in a rapidly expanding deep-tech company
  • Opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge commercial, aerospace, and defense optical systems
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