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Senior Optical Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Leonardo Electronics US Inc

Senior Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer is responsible for leading the design, analysis, and development of ... Work closely with optical technicians to develop precision alignment, test, and characterization ...

Leonardo Electronics US Inc

Senior Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer is responsible for leading the design, analysis, and development of ... Work closely with optical technicians to develop precision alignment, test, and characterization ...

Arcfield

Optical Technician III

Louisville, CO · On-site

We are looking for a strong Optical Technician III to work directly with our EO/IR optical ... Work side-by-side with senior EO/IR optical engineers to set up, run, and document optical tests ...

LLNL

Senior Optical Engineer

Livermore, CA

$151K - $195K/yr

We have an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to support the development of advanced optical ... You will interact with engineers, scientists, technicians, project leaders, and sponsors in support ...

KBR, Inc.

Sr. Optical Designer /Analyst

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$142K - $214K/yr

Title: Sr. Optical Designer /Analyst Position Summary KBR is looking for a Senior Level Optical or ... Work with other engineers, technicians, manufacturing, and quality engineers in a team environment

KBR

Sr. Optical Designer /Analyst

Greenbelt, MD

$142K - $214K/yr

Title: Sr. Optical Designer /Analyst Position Summary KBR is looking for a Senior Level Optical or ... Work with other engineers, technicians, manufacturing, and quality engineers in a team environment

LLNL

Senior Optical Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

We have an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to support the development of advanced optical ... You will interact with engineers, scientists, technicians, project leaders, and sponsors in support ...

Wilcox Industries

Senior Optical Engineer

Newington, NH · On-site

$133K - $172K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer is a pivotal part of the Wilcox engineering team and is responsible for ... laser technicians and assemblers. * Communicates the status of projects including progress ...

nLIGHT

Electro-Optical Technician

Longmont, CO

$30 - $45/hr

Willingness to learn, grow technical skills, and take direction from senior staff. Additional ... Associates degree in Optics & Laser Technology, Physics Technician, Electro-Optics Technology ...

nLIGHT

Electro-Optical Technician

Longmont, CO

$30 - $45/hr

Willingness to learn, grow technical skills, and take direction from senior staff. Additional ... Associates degree in Optics & Laser Technology, Physics Technician, Electro-Optics Technology ...

nLIGHT

Electro-Optical Technician

Longmont, CO

Willingness to learn, grow technical skills, and take direction from senior staff. Additional ... Associates degree in Optics & Laser Technology, Physics Technician, Electro-Optics Technology ...

nLIGHT

Electro-Optical Technician

Longmont, CO · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Willingness to learn, grow technical skills, and take direction from senior staff. Additional ... Associates degree in Optics & Laser Technology, Physics Technician, Electro-Optics Technology ...

LLNL

Senior Optical Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

We have an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to support the development of advanced optical ... You will interact with engineers, scientists, technicians, project leaders, and sponsors in support ...

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Senior Optical Technician information

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How much do senior optical technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior optical technician in the United States is $27.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $33.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior optical technician?

Senior Optical Technicians are experienced professionals who specialize in the assembly, calibration, testing, and maintenance of optical components and systems, such as lenses, lasers, microscopes, and fiber optics. They often supervise junior technicians, ensure quality control, and troubleshoot complex optical equipment. Their work is critical in industries such as manufacturing, research, telecommunications, and healthcare. Senior Optical Technicians may also assist in designing optical systems and provide technical support to engineers and scientists.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior optical technician?

To thrive as a Senior Optical Technician, you need advanced knowledge of optical principles, experience with lens fabrication and assembly, and typically a relevant technical degree or significant industry experience. Proficiency with optical testing equipment, CAD software, and familiarity with industry standards like ISO 10110 are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set exceptional candidates apart. These competencies ensure precise fabrication, quality control, and effective teamwork in delivering high-performance optical products.

What are some common challenges faced by senior optical technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Senior Optical Technicians often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex optical systems, keeping up with rapidly evolving technology, and ensuring precise calibration of sensitive equipment. Staying current with industry advancements through ongoing training and collaboration with engineers can help address these issues. Additionally, strong documentation skills and proactive communication within multidisciplinary teams are essential for resolving technical problems efficiently and maintaining high-quality standards.

What is the difference between Senior Optical Technician vs Optical Technician?

AspectSenior Optical TechnicianOptical Technician
CertificationsOften requires certification in ophthalmic optics or related fieldsTypically requires certification or diploma in optical technology
Work EnvironmentWorks in labs, clinics, or manufacturing settings, often supervisingWorks primarily in optical retail, labs, or clinics
ResponsibilitiesPerforms complex optical repairs, supervises staff, and ensures quality standardsPrepares lenses, fits frames, and assists customers with eyewear

The main difference between a Senior Optical Technician and an Optical Technician lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership roles. Senior Optical Technicians typically have more advanced skills, oversee complex tasks, and may supervise other technicians, whereas Optical Technicians focus on routine lens fabrication and customer service. Both roles are essential in optical settings, but the senior position involves greater expertise and oversight.

Is a senior optical technician a good career?

A senior optical technician is a skilled role that involves assembling, testing, and maintaining optical devices such as lenses and fiber optics. It offers opportunities for advancement, requires technical training or certification, and typically provides stable employment in manufacturing or healthcare settings.

Where do senior optical technicians make the most money?

Senior optical technicians tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a high cost of living and strong healthcare or optical industries, such as metropolitan areas with specialized medical facilities. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in private practices or large healthcare organizations can also influence earning potential.

What cities are hiring for Senior Optical Technician jobs?

Cities with the most Senior Optical Technician job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Technician jobs?

The most popular types of Optical Technician jobs are:

What states have the most Senior Optical Technician jobs?

States with the most job openings for Senior Optical Technician jobs include:

Senior Optical Technician jobs near you

Optical Technician

San Diego, CA • On-site

Voyager Technologies, Inc.
See more jobs at Voyager Technologies, Inc.external

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Voyager is an innovative space, defense, and national security technology company committed to advancing and delivering transformative, mission-critical solutions. We tackle the most complex challenges to unlock new frontiers for human progress, fortify national security, and protect critical assets to lead in the race for technological and operational superiority from ground to space.
Forge the Future: Join Voyager Technologies
The future belongs to those who build it. At Voyager Technologies, we're building technologies that protect lives, expand frontiers and prepare us for what's next. And we're doing that with people who are wired to solve, build, adapt and lead. These roles are not for the faint of heart.
You'll help lay the foundation for humanity's future. Join a culture where innovation thrives, curiosity is rewarded, and impact is real. We're a company of doers, thinkers and builders, united by purpose and grounded in reality.
If you want to put your skills to work where the stakes are real and the mission is bigger than any one person, forge the future with Voyager.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Optical Technician provides hands-on technical support for the design, assembly, alignment, test, and integration of electro-optical and photonic systems within a fast-paced defense and aerospace environment. Working under the direction of senior optical engineers, this role is critical to meeting program milestones, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring the performance of precision optical instruments, laser systems, and imaging assemblies. The ideal candidate brings 6 years of demonstrated technician experience in an optics or photonics manufacturing or R&D environment, strong bench skills, and the discipline to operate within cleanroom and controlled environments.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Assembly & Integration
  • Assemble and align precision optical components including lenses, mirrors, beam splitters, prisms, and filters per engineering drawings and assembly procedures
  • Integrate electro-optical subassemblies into larger sensor or imaging systems, ensuring mechanical and optical tolerances are maintained
  • Perform fiber optic splicing, connector termination, and cable routing for photonic subsystems
  • Support installation and integration of laser systems, detectors, and associated opto-mechanical hardware

Test & Verification
  • Execute optical performance tests including wavefront error, MTF, transmittance, focal length, and centration measurements using interferometers, autocollimators, and profilometers
  • Operate optical test equipment such as Zygo interferometers, Shack-Hartmann sensors, spectrophotometers, power meters, and optical spectrum analyzers
  • Conduct functional and environmental testing (vibration, thermal, shock) in accordance with MIL-STD-810 and program test plans
  • Document test results accurately in test travelers, data packages, and engineering notebooks; flag non-conformances and initiate corrective actions

Fabrication & Repair
  • Perform optical surface cleaning, inspection, and minor fabrication tasks including polishing, cementing, and coating inspection
  • Support rework and repair of returned assemblies, troubleshooting alignment and performance issues to root cause
  • Fabricate and modify opto-mechanical fixtures, jigs, and tooling to support assembly and test processes

Quality & Documentation
  • Maintain first-article inspection records and dimensional inspection reports using CMM, micrometers, and optical comparators
  • Follow AS9100 and ISO 9001 quality management procedures; support internal audits and corrective action processes
  • Ensure compliance with ESD, FOD, and cleanroom protocols (ISO Class 5-7)
  • Complete work orders, assembly travelers, and material handling documentation accurately and on time

Collaboration & Support
  • Collaborate closely with optical engineers, mechanical engineers, and program managers to support design verification and qualification activities
  • Provide technical input during design reviews and producibility assessments from a technician's perspective
  • Mentor junior technicians and support cross-training initiatives within the optical assembly team
  • Support customer and government source inspections as required

If your experience aligns with our basic qualifications and you are inspired by our mission, we'd like to connect. If you don't see the right role right now, Join Our Talent Community and stay connected as we continue to build what's next.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education
  • Associate degree in Electro-Optics, Photonics, Electronics Technology, or a related technical discipline; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Coursework or training in geometrical optics, laser principles, or optical instrumentation preferred

Experience
  • Minimum 6 years of hands-on experience as an optical or electro-optical technician in a defense, aerospace, or precision optics manufacturing environment
  • Demonstrated proficiency in optical alignment techniques, interferometric testing, and precision assembly of opto-mechanical systems
  • Experience with fiber optic systems, free-space laser systems, or infrared imaging systems is strongly preferred
  • Prior experience supporting MIL-SPEC programs or government-contracted programs

Technical Skills
  • Proficient with optical test instruments: interferometers (Zygo, ESDI), autocollimators, spectrophotometers, power meters, beam analyzers
  • Skilled in reading and interpreting optical and mechanical engineering drawings, GD&T, and assembly procedures
  • Experience with cleanroom operations at ISO Class 5-7 and associated contamination control practices
  • Familiarity with ERP/MES systems (SAP, Oracle, or equivalent) for work order tracking
  • Basic proficiency with MS Office Suite; experience with data reduction tools (Excel, MATLAB, or LabVIEW a plus)

Security
  • Active U.S. Secret security clearance required at time of hire
  • Ability to obtain Top Secret clearance preferred
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience with LIDAR, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor systems, or directed energy systems
  • Familiarity with Zemax or Code V optical design software for review of optical models
  • IPC-610 or J-STD-001 certification for soldering and electronics assembly
  • Experience with laser safety protocols per ANSI Z136.1 and serving as a Laser Safety Officer (LSO) assistant
  • Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent continuous improvement training

PHYSICAL & WORK ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs unassisted
  • Extended periods of standing, bending, and use of fine motor skills for precision assembly work
  • Work performed in a combination of cleanroom, laboratory, and standard office environments
  • Must be able to wear required PPE including ESD garments, cleanroom suits, and laser safety eyewear
  • Occasional work outside standard business hours to meet program deadlines

The good faith base salary rangefor this role is $75,000 - $110,000at the time of this posting. Where you fall within the range depends on your experience, skills, and location. This range reflects base salary only and does not include benefits or bonus/incentive. This range may be adjusted in the future.
Voyager offers a highly competitive total compensation package designed to support the well-being, growth, and success of our employees. Employees benefit from a flexible and comprehensive rewards program that supports both professional and personal well-being.
  • Flexible Time Off (FTO), empowering employees to take the time they need to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families, with a significant portion of premiums covered by the company and many benefits paid at 100% for employees
  • Flexible, affordable gym memberships with 12,700+ options nationwide, including 24 Hour Fitness, EoS Fitness, Crunch Fitness, Anytime Fitness, Blink Fitness, Chuze Fitness, and more! No long-term contracts and FREE on-demand workout videos before you enroll
  • 401(k) retirement plan with a 50% company match on contributions up to 8%, supporting long-term financial security
  • Company wellness programs that support physical and mental well-being
  • Additional voluntary benefits and employee support resources
  • The opportunity to work alongside a highly talented team in an innovative, mission-driven environment

Voyager is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) (22 CFR Parts 120-130) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) (15 CFR Parts 730-774), applicants for this position must be a U.S. Person: a US Citizen, a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3). Applicants must be eligible to obtain any required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran
The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe the general content and requirements for performance of this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties, responsibilities, and requirements. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter the scope of work within the framework of this job description at any time without prior notice.
California pay range
$75,000-$110,000 USD

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