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Precision Optics Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

Sr. Category Manager - Precision Optics

Longmont, CO · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

The Senior Category Manager provides strategic leadership across the following precision optics categories - optical coatings, large optics manufacturing and complex lens arrays. The Senior Category ...

nLIGHT

Sr. Category Manager - Precision Optics

Longmont, CO · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

The Senior Category Manager provides strategic leadership across the following precision optics categories - optical coatings, large optics manufacturing and complex lens arrays. The Senior Category ...

IonQ

Optical Bench Alignment Technician

Broomfield, CO

$68K - $82K/yr

... precision optics manufacturing * Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Optics, Photonics, Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience) * Experience with optical alignment ...

IonQ

Optical Bench Alignment Technician

Broomfield, CO · On-site

... precision optics manufacturing * Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Optics, Photonics, Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience) * Experience with optical alignment ...

Quantinuum

Optics Technician - 823

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$53K - $66K/yr

Perform precision optical alignment of opto-mechanical assemblies to specified tolerances, including free-space and fiber-coupled systems. * Maintain accurate assembly records, including inspection ...

Luxium Solutions, LLC

Coating Technician

Boulder, CO · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

In this vital role, you will expertly apply specialized coatings to precision optics that are integral to groundbreaking technologies. Working with state-of-the-art equipment, your keen eye for ...

Luxium Solutions, LLC

Coating Technician

Boulder, CO · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

In this vital role, you will expertly apply specialized coatings to precision optics that are integral to groundbreaking technologies. Working with state-of-the-art equipment, your keen eye for ...

Luxium Solutions, LLC

Coating Technician

Boulder, CO · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

In this vital role, you will expertly apply specialized coatings to precision optics that are integral to groundbreaking technologies. Working with state-of-the-art equipment, your keen eye for ...

Xcimer Energy

Optical Control Systems Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

... precision, timing, and speed. Responsibilities * Design, implement, and tune adaptive optics control algorithms for high‑energy laser systems, including wavefront correction, beam pointing, and ...

BAE Systems

Eng Technologist Prin

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$118K - $200K/yr

This role is defined by extensive hands-on experience, practiced mechanical and optical knowledge with mounting, bonding, and handling precision optics as well as independent technical judgment and ...

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Precision Optics information

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How much do precision optics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for precision optics in Colorado is $17.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Precision Optics job?

A Precision Optics job involves the design, fabrication, testing, and assembly of high-accuracy optical components and systems. Professionals in this field work with lenses, mirrors, prisms, and other optical elements used in industries such as aerospace, medical devices, and scientific research. They use advanced manufacturing techniques, metrology tools, and computer-aided design (CAD) software to ensure components meet strict specifications. Precision Optics specialists may work in roles such as optical engineers, technicians, or fabricators, contributing to cutting-edge technologies like lasers, imaging systems, and optical sensors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Precision Optics position, and why are they important?

Excelling in Precision Optics requires a strong background in optics, physics, mathematics, and mechanical engineering, often with a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with CAD design software, optical simulation tools, precision measuring instruments, and industry certifications (such as IPC or ISO standards) is vital. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and excellent teamwork skills are key soft skills for thriving in this role. These competencies ensure accuracy in designing, assembling, and testing high-performance optical components essential for advanced technologies.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in Precision Optics?

A typical day in Precision Optics often involves designing and testing optical components, performing quality inspections, and collaborating closely with engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams. You may use advanced measurement systems and software to analyze prototypes or support the assembly of intricate optical devices. This hands-on work is balanced with documentation and troubleshooting to ensure finished products meet exacting specifications. Working in Precision Optics offers opportunities to solve complex challenges and continuously learn about new technologies in the field.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Precision Optics jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Precision Optics job openings:
Precision Optics jobs near you
Sr. Category Manager - Precision Optics

Sr. Category Manager - Precision Optics

nLIGHT

Longmont, CO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Location: Longmont, CO (onsite)
Experience: 10+ years of progressive sourcing or category management experience, or equivalent related experience
Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or related discipline
Compensation: $100,000-$150,000 based on experience
 
Who We Are 
nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is one of the nation’s leading developers of Directed Energy systems, which is a top modernization priority of the Department of Defense.  Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment of high energy laser solutions to the United States military and our allies.  Located in Longmont, Colorado, nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is a vertically integrated business that leverages internal capabilities – from semiconductor device through target identification – to develop systems that are both high-performance and cost-effective.  We continue to invest in capabilities, facilities and technology to bring leading edge HEL solutions to the warfighter. This is a great opportunity to work at a company that is on the leading edge of the HEL industry and provides a culture of excellence and commitment to delivering solutions to the warfighter and our country.  
 
Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
 
Summary: 
The Senior Category Manager provides strategic leadership across the following precision optics categories – optical coatings, large optics manufacturing and complex lens arrays. The Senior Category Manager shapes long-term sourcing direction, supplier portfolio governance, enterprise risk mitigation, and sourcing transformation initiatives aligned with corporate growth and compliance requirements. Senior Category Manager will work closely with, and actively support, the Design Engineers as the Design Engineer and Senior Category Manager jointly select, on-board and then work through creating active partnerships with suppliers - from concept through design to production deliveries. The Senior Category Manager will take primary responsibility for any/all commercial and operational discussions with suppliers.
 
All applicants must possess or be qualified to obtain a U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Preference will be given to candidates with an existing U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance.  Further information on requirements to obtain a security clearance is available at: https://www.dcsa.mil/mc/pv/mbi/gicp/.  Please review this information before applying.
 
Responsibilities: 
  • Defines and executes global, long-term category and supplier portfolio strategies aligned with corporate growth plans and technology evolution.
  • Develops comprehensive portfolio strategies that shape the organization's supplier base architecture across multiple categories, geographies, and technology platforms
  • Leads executive-level supplier performance reviews and Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs) that influence strategic supplier relationships. Conduct high-level supplier governance sessions with executive participation, reviewing strategic alignment, performance against enterprise objectives, and long-term relationship trajectory.
  • Negotiates supplier agreements ranging from single transaction to complex, high-value commercial agreements involving multi-year commitments, global capacity planning, and strategic collaboration. Structures sophisticated commercial arrangements that include volume commitments, pricing mechanisms, capacity reservations, technology partnerships, and risk-sharing frameworks.
  • Influences make/buy decisions and supplier architecture strategy in partnership with engineering and operations leadership. Provides expert input on supply chain implications, supplier capability landscapes, cost structures, and risk considerations for strategic product and manufacturing decisions.
  • Leads multi-category diversification and resilience initiatives to reduce systemic risk exposure. Designs and executes enterprise-wide initiatives that reduce concentration risk across suppliers, geographies, or technologies affecting multiple categories.
  • Establishes standardized supplier governance frameworks, including scorecards, QBR structures, and compliance verification protocols.
  • Drives sourcing process transformation and participates in digital enablement initiatives. Participate in organization-wide initiatives to modernize sourcing processes, implement advanced analytics capabilities, deploy digital procurement technologies, or restructure sourcing operating models.
  • Develops structured contingency and risk mitigation plans for high-impact supplier dependencies. Creates comprehensive business continuity plans for critical supplier relationships that could significantly impact business operations if disrupted.
  • Ensures comprehensive compliance governance aligned with FAR, DFARS, ITAR/EAR, and other applicable regulations.
  • Leads enterprise-wide process improvement and optimization initiatives that enhance sourcing efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen compliance controls.
  • Serves as a strategic advisor to executive leadership on sourcing risk, cost roadmaps, and supplier innovation opportunities.
  • Supports and facilitates the selection, on boarding and communication with suppliers throughout the design and sourcing efforts.
  • Works hand in hand with engineering to create design requirements and then align product design requirements with suppliers’ capabilities – including capacity, financial stability and technical roadmap of suppliers.
 
Required Experience / Capability: 
  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or related discipline; 10+ years of progressive sourcing or category management experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Demonstrated negotiation experience managing high-value agreements.
  • Experience managing multiple complex or global category portfolios.
  • Advanced financial modeling and cost strategy capability (preferred).
  • Deep understanding of government contracting regulations and compliance frameworks,
  • Hands on experience with FAR/DFAR compliance and enforcement
  • Strong executive communication and presentation capability.
  • Proficiency in ERP systems and advanced analytics tools.
  • Demonstrated ability to build strong partnership with engineering teams
  • Strongly preferred: Experience with sourcing and technical challenges for the following categories:
    • Optical Coatings &/or
    • Large Optics Manufacturing &/or
    • Lens Arrays
Benefits Summary:  
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year 
  • 11 paid Holidays 
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan 
  • Tuition Assistance Program 
  • Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents 
  • Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100% 
  • Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting  
  
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at HR@nlightdefense.com.  
 
 
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