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Surface Optics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Define process parameters and controls to meet dimensional and surface quality requirements. * Design experiments and conduct R&D on advanced optical fabrication. * Improve yield, reduce defects, and ...

Production Lead Surface- Green Bay, WI

De Pere, WI · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Elevate to Production Manager - Surface for resolution when appropriate • Consistently validate machine calibration • Review jobs to determine if they meet Optical Lab standards • Troubleshoot ...

Apply Early

Clean optical components and monitor vacuum chamber for the deposition of optical coatings on optical surfaces. Hand or ultrasonically clean and inspect optical components in preparation of ...

Clean optical components and monitor vacuum chamber for the deposition of optical coatings on optical surfaces. Hand or ultrasonically clean and inspect optical components in preparation of ...

Define process parameters and controls to meet dimensional and surface quality requirements. * Design experiments and conduct R&D on advanced optical fabrication. * Improve yield, reduce defects, and ...

Define process parameters and controls to meet dimensional and surface quality requirements. * Design experiments and conduct R&D on advanced optical fabrication. * Improve yield, reduce defects, and ...

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Surface Optics information

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$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do surface optics jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for surface optics in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Surface Optics vs Optical Technician?

AspectSurface OpticsOptical Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in optics, physics, or engineeringOften requires a certificate or associate degree in optics or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, or aerospace industriesOptical labs, manufacturing plants, or healthcare settings
Industry UsageUsed in high-precision optics, aerospace, and researchCommon in lens manufacturing, optical device assembly, and maintenance

Surface Optics professionals focus on designing, analyzing, and improving optical surfaces and systems, often working in research or high-tech industries. Optical Technicians typically handle the assembly, testing, and maintenance of optical devices. While both roles require knowledge of optics, Surface Optics roles tend to involve more research and development, whereas Optical Technicians focus on practical application and manufacturing processes.

More about Surface Optics jobs
What cities are hiring for Surface Optics jobs? Cities with the most Surface Optics job openings:
What states have the most Surface Optics jobs? States with the most job openings for Surface Optics jobs include:
Optics Manufacturing Engineer

Optics Manufacturing Engineer

Ametek

Middlefield, CT

$125K - $161K/yr

Other

Posted 22 days ago


AMETEK rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 141 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Are you ready to collaborate with leading experts in optical engineering and contribute to the next level of precision and excellence?

At Zygo, your skills and insights will be integral to our core values of curiosity, collaboration, and persistence. For over 50 years, Zygo Corporation, headquartered in Middlefield, CT, has been a global leader in designing and manufacturing advanced optical metrology systems, ultra-precise optical components, and complex electro-optical systems and assemblies. Join our team, where your expertise will drive cutting-edge solutions, address complex technical challenges, and uphold the highest standards of precision and safety.

As a Precision Optics Manufacturing Engineer, you will drive solutions for optical manufacturing challenges, focusing on developing and optimizing processes for precision optics, especially large-area optical assemblies. Materials include glass, fused silica, Zerodur, and sapphire, used in semiconductors and aerospace/ defense industries. 

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and optimize processes for manufacturing precision optics.
  • Solve complex technical problems related to large-area optics and assemblies.
  • Define process parameters and controls to meet dimensional and surface quality requirements.
  • Design experiments and conduct R&D on advanced optical fabrication.
  • Improve yield, reduce defects, and lower cost of poor quality (COPQ).
  • Work independently, mentor junior staff, and potentially lead cross-functional projects.
  • Create detailed manufacturing instructions and review optical manufacturing methods.
  • Ensure compliance with MIL and ISO specifications

Requirements and Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree (or higher) in mechanical engineering or related field.
  • 3 to 5 years of experience in mechanical design and optics manufacturing process development.
  • Proficiency in mechanical drawings, SOLIDWORKS, geometric dimensioning/tolerancing, and data analysis (MatLab/MathCad or equivalent).
  • Some programming experiences (Python/ Matlab).
  • Experience in one or more optics manufacturing techniques like polishing, CNC, MRF.
  • Hands-on experience in optical assembly and metrology (interferometry, CMM).

Bring your passion, commitment, and curiosity to Zygo, where our values-curiosity, collaboration, persistence, confidence, problem-solving, and safety-guide every step of our journey. Grow with us as we work together to solve complex challenges, inspire confidence, and make our world a safer, better place. Are you ready to expand the boundaries of possibility, simplify the complex, and embody the values that define our success? 

We welcome your unique perspective and invite you to join us!

Due to the nature of Zygo's programs and products, applicants must have the legal right to work in the US and additionally must be legally authorized to access export-controlled information and source code.


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