Green Card Optical Technician Jobs
Optical Technician green card sponsorship follows the EB-3 skilled worker path for most roles, requiring your employer to complete PERM labor certification with the DOL before filing an I-140 petition with USCIS. Per-country backlogs affect nationals from high-demand countries, so starting the process early with a willing sponsor matters.
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Get Access To All JobsPosting Number req27511
Department Steward Observatory
Location Tucson Campus
Address Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights
Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University’s oldest research units. Founded in 1918, the Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.
The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory invites you to apply for the role of Research Engineering Optical Fabrication Technician III. The Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab is a one-of-a-kind facility that produces telescope mirrors from 3m to 8.4m in diameter that are used in telescopes around the world. This position supports the hands-on operation of mirror grinding and polishing equipment, measurement instruments, and transport equipment used during mirror fabrication.
This position supports the technical lead of a weekend night shift with hours of 9:00 PM to 9:00 AM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
This position supports a federal contract which requires that the selected candidate be a U.S. citizen (non-U.S. citizens or dual citizens cannot be considered for this position).
Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!
The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Supports the team leader with the operations of the LOG (Large Optical Generator) and the LPM (Large Polishing Machine) to generate, fine grind, and polish large telescope mirrors ranging from 3m to 8.4m in diameter and weighing up to 18 tons.
- Performs duties with minimal supervision while following established procedures, and safety standards.
- Demonstrates knowledge of operating requirements and technical processes related to the optical fabrication of large-scale mirror production.
- Works with a team of technicians to take precise measurements, including optical, physical, and ultrasonic methods, to evaluate mirror conformance to scientists' and engineers' specifications including HREP, SCOTS, SLOTS, Test Plate, and Laser Tracker Measurements.
- Guides and trains lower-level staff.
- Supports the movement of mirrors throughout the lab using an air cart within inches of fixed obstacles. Works with team members on proper positioning of mirrors and follows the safety protocols required during the process.
- Enters data into the project logbooks and spreadsheets, including information on runs, measurements, machine parameters, and notes on run results. Filling out Daily reports.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):
- Ability to lead a group of technicians in operating specialized equipment.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision.
- Ability to train and coach junior team members.
- Proficient with Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.
Physical Requirements and Environmental Demands:
- Frequently lifts, moves, and transports equipment, tools, and materials associated with large-scale mirror fabrication processes (up to 50 lbs.) as required.
- Works in a manufacturing and laboratory environment where noise levels may require raised voices or hearing protection.
- Works in proximity to grinding, polishing, measurement, and transport equipment, as well as moving mechanical parts, electrical equipment, elevated work areas, and chemicals used in fabrication processes.
- May have skin or airborne exposure to oils, lubricants, cutting fluids, and other materials used in optical fabrication operations.
- Follow established safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
- Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
- This position supports a federal contract which requires that the selected candidate be a U.S. citizen (non-U.S. citizens or dual citizens cannot be considered for this position).
Preferred Qualifications
- Extensive working knowledge of large optic handling, generation, fine grinding, polishing, and metrology.
- Experience leading and training junior technicians.
FLSA Non-Exempt
Full Time/Part Time Full Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week 40
Job FTE 1.0
Work Calendar Fiscal
Job Category Research
Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay $25.50 - $31.88
Compensation Type hourly rate
Grade 7
Compensation Guidance The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.
Career Stream and Level OC3
Job Family Research Engineering
Job Function Research
Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies 1
Contact Information for Candidates
Chip Ragan
Manager, RFC Mirror Lab
cragan@arizona.edu
Open Date 10/30/2026
Open Until Filled Yes
Documents Needed to Apply Resume and Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicant
Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.
Posting Number req27511
Department Steward Observatory
Location Tucson Campus
Address Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights
Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University’s oldest research units. Founded in 1918, the Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.
The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory invites you to apply for the role of Research Engineering Optical Fabrication Technician III. The Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab is a one-of-a-kind facility that produces telescope mirrors from 3m to 8.4m in diameter that are used in telescopes around the world. This position supports the hands-on operation of mirror grinding and polishing equipment, measurement instruments, and transport equipment used during mirror fabrication.
This position supports the technical lead of a weekend night shift with hours of 9:00 PM to 9:00 AM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
This position supports a federal contract which requires that the selected candidate be a U.S. citizen (non-U.S. citizens or dual citizens cannot be considered for this position).
Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!
The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Supports the team leader with the operations of the LOG (Large Optical Generator) and the LPM (Large Polishing Machine) to generate, fine grind, and polish large telescope mirrors ranging from 3m to 8.4m in diameter and weighing up to 18 tons.
- Performs duties with minimal supervision while following established procedures, and safety standards.
- Demonstrates knowledge of operating requirements and technical processes related to the optical fabrication of large-scale mirror production.
- Works with a team of technicians to take precise measurements, including optical, physical, and ultrasonic methods, to evaluate mirror conformance to scientists' and engineers' specifications including HREP, SCOTS, SLOTS, Test Plate, and Laser Tracker Measurements.
- Guides and trains lower-level staff.
- Supports the movement of mirrors throughout the lab using an air cart within inches of fixed obstacles. Works with team members on proper positioning of mirrors and follows the safety protocols required during the process.
- Enters data into the project logbooks and spreadsheets, including information on runs, measurements, machine parameters, and notes on run results. Filling out Daily reports.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):
- Ability to lead a group of technicians in operating specialized equipment.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision.
- Ability to train and coach junior team members.
- Proficient with Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.
Physical Requirements and Environmental Demands:
- Frequently lifts, moves, and transports equipment, tools, and materials associated with large-scale mirror fabrication processes (up to 50 lbs.) as required.
- Works in a manufacturing and laboratory environment where noise levels may require raised voices or hearing protection.
- Works in proximity to grinding, polishing, measurement, and transport equipment, as well as moving mechanical parts, electrical equipment, elevated work areas, and chemicals used in fabrication processes.
- May have skin or airborne exposure to oils, lubricants, cutting fluids, and other materials used in optical fabrication operations.
- Follow established safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
- Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
- This position supports a federal contract which requires that the selected candidate be a U.S. citizen (non-U.S. citizens or dual citizens cannot be considered for this position).
Preferred Qualifications
- Extensive working knowledge of large optic handling, generation, fine grinding, polishing, and metrology.
- Experience leading and training junior technicians.
FLSA Non-Exempt
Full Time/Part Time Full Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week 40
Job FTE 1.0
Work Calendar Fiscal
Job Category Research
Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay $25.50 - $31.88
Compensation Type hourly rate
Grade 7
Compensation Guidance The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.
Career Stream and Level OC3
Job Family Research Engineering
Job Function Research
Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies 1
Contact Information for Candidates
Chip Ragan
Manager, RFC Mirror Lab
cragan@arizona.edu
Open Date 10/30/2026
Open Until Filled Yes
Documents Needed to Apply Resume and Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicant
Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Green Card Sponsorship as an Optical Technician
Verify your credentials translate for PERM
PERM requires your employer to define minimum job requirements before recruiting. If your optical training came from outside the U.S., get a credential evaluation now so your degree and certifications align with what DOL expects for the posted position.
Search employers with active green card filings
Target optical labs, ophthalmology practices, and healthcare systems that have filed PERM applications for Optical Technician roles before. Migrate Mate shows employers with verified green card sponsorship history, so you're not guessing at willingness.
Distinguish EB-2 and EB-3 paths before applying
Most Optical Technician roles qualify under EB-3 as skilled workers. EB-2 requires an advanced degree or a bachelor's plus five years of progressive experience. Confirm which category your credentials support before your employer begins the prevailing wage determination.
Use OFLC Wage Search to anticipate the prevailing wage
Your employer must pay at least the DOL prevailing wage for your occupation and work location. Run your own OFLC Wage Search lookup by SOC code and geographic area before salary negotiations so there are no surprises during PERM filing.
Ask employers about their PERM recruitment timeline
PERM requires a mandatory recruitment test, including job postings and documentation that no qualified U.S. worker was available. This process typically takes several months before DOL submission, so ask prospective employers where they are in that cycle.
Understand priority date retention before changing jobs
Once your original I-140 is approved, your priority date can carry over to a new employer's I-140 in the same occupation. AC21 job portability also protects you if your I-485 has been pending 180 days or more and the new role is in a similar occupation.
Green Card Optical Technician: Frequently Asked Questions
Can an employer sponsor an Optical Technician for a green card, and what does that process look like?
Yes. Most employers use the EB-3 skilled worker category for Optical Technician roles. The process starts with a prevailing wage determination from DOL, followed by PERM labor certification, an I-140 immigrant petition filed with USCIS, and finally adjustment of status or consular processing. Each stage can take months, so total timelines vary significantly depending on your country of birth.
How is green card sponsorship different from H-1B sponsorship for this role?
Green card sponsorship leads to lawful permanent residence, not a temporary work status. The PERM process requires your employer to test the labor market and document that no qualified U.S. worker was available, which H-1B visa does not. There is also no lottery for employment-based green cards, but per-country annual limits mean nationals from high-demand countries can face priority-date backlogs that H-1B holders don't encounter in the same way.
How do I find employers willing to sponsor Optical Technicians for a green card?
Migrate Mate lists employers with verified green card sponsorship history, so you can focus your search on optical labs, ophthalmology practices, and healthcare networks that have already navigated PERM for this type of role. Reaching out to employers who have done it before shortens the conversation about willingness and process familiarity.
Does my foreign optical training count toward EB-3 or EB-2 eligibility?
Foreign credentials can count, but they need to be evaluated for U.S. equivalency before your employer posts the PERM job requirements. For EB-3, a two-year training program or associate-level credential in opticianry may qualify. For EB-2, you'd need an advanced degree or a bachelor's plus five years of progressive experience in optical sciences or a closely related field.
What happens to my green card case if I change employers mid-process?
The answer depends on how far along your case is. If your I-140 has been approved and your I-485 has been pending for 180 days or more, AC21 portability lets you move to a same or similar occupation without restarting the green card process. If your original I-140 was approved, your priority date can also carry over to a new employer's I-140 petition for a comparable role.