Optical Scientist Jobs in New Hampshire
Optical Scientist jobs in New Hampshire are concentrated in the Manchester and Nashua corridors and along the Seacoast region, where defense optics, precision manufacturing, and photonics research drive consistent demand from entry-level to senior engineer. BAE Systems, Raytheon Technologies, and Dartmouth College are among the most established employers hiring optical scientists in the state, with specialties in laser systems, optical design, and electro-optical sensor development seeing the strongest activity. New Hampshire's proximity to the Massachusetts defense and research corridor deepens the talent pool and the opportunity set. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Showing 5 of 12+ Optical Scientist jobs
ABOUT US
G&H is a world leader in optical designing, testing and manufacturing. As experts in the technology of light, G&H works with customers to provide optical systems, assemblies, and components for demanding applicationsHeadquartered in Ilminster Somerset, UK with primary operations in the USA and Europe, G&H is recognized for the breadth of their acousto-optic, electro-optic, crystal-optic, fiber optic, and precision optic products. G&H is recognized as the preferred source for OEMs in the life sciences, industrial, and aerospace and defense industries, with a history of quality and excellence that dates back over seventy-five years.
Role
The successful candidate will be responsible for the testing of complex precision optical systems and components to meet both customer requirements and application needs. The candidate will also be responsible to help develop test methods and procedures to characterize optical system performance.This position is based upon a forty (40) hour work week equating to full time employment at G&H Keene. It is considered an hourly/non-exempt position and eligible for overtime. We have attempted to list all of the responsibilities that might be expected of such an employee in the list that follows. However, additional duties may be required. Business hours are M-F 8am-5pm.
RESPONSIBILITIES & PERFORMANCE MEASURES
Performs a variety of testing functions on various platforms.
Review and follow all prescribed Test Procedures.
Complete all documentation requirements, such as data collection sheets.
Identify failure trends and further detailed analysis.
Set up and operate equipment and machines necessary to service, diagnose and calibrate a wide variety of optical assemblies.
Basic computer knowledge
Good math skills
Ability to read and write English
Plan and lay out all operations required for completion of assignments. Recommend improvements in function, and methods of test procedures.
Maintain accurate records of all tests performed to enable trouble shooting when necessary.
Successful candidates must be positive team players who are committed to excellence
This job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties as necessary.
QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
1. Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering or related field
2. Basic understanding of optical instruments, calibration, and handling lenses
3. Working knowledge of optical theory and principals
4. Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow documented work instructions.
5. Excellent communication skills, including the ability to document inspection results clearly.
6. Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive attitude toward continuous improvement.
7. Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Notes: This job description is not intended to be exhaustive in every respect, but rather to clearly define the fundamental purpose, responsibilities and dimensions for the role. Therefore, this job description does not describe any individual role holder. In addition to the contents of this job description, employees are expected to undertake all other reasonable and related tasks allocated by their line managerThe Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. The Company does not discriminate in employment opportunity or practices on the grounds of gender, race, religion or belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by national laws under which the Company operates.
US Postings ONLY: In the instance that the position will involve having access to items and technical data that may be controlled under U.S. export laws and regulations ("U.S. Export Control Laws"), including but not limited to the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR") and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ("ITAR"). To comply with the U.S. Export Control Laws, and in conjunction with the review of candidates for those positions within G&H that may present access to export-controlled technical data, G&H must assess whether candidates are "U.S. persons" as defined under the EAR (15 C.F.R. Part 772) and the ITAR (22 C.F.R. § 120.15). Certain questions asked during the application process are intended to assess this and will be used for evaluation purposes only. Failure to provide the necessary information in this regard will result in our inability to consider you further for this position.
ABOUT US
G&H is a world leader in optical designing, testing and manufacturing. As experts in the technology of light, G&H works with customers to provide optical systems, assemblies, and components for demanding applicationsHeadquartered in Ilminster Somerset, UK with primary operations in the USA and Europe, G&H is recognized for the breadth of their acousto-optic, electro-optic, crystal-optic, fiber optic, and precision optic products. G&H is recognized as the preferred source for OEMs in the life sciences, industrial, and aerospace and defense industries, with a history of quality and excellence that dates back over seventy-five years.
Role
The successful candidate will be responsible for the testing of complex precision optical systems and components to meet both customer requirements and application needs. The candidate will also be responsible to help develop test methods and procedures to characterize optical system performance.This position is based upon a forty (40) hour work week equating to full time employment at G&H Keene. It is considered an hourly/non-exempt position and eligible for overtime. We have attempted to list all of the responsibilities that might be expected of such an employee in the list that follows. However, additional duties may be required. Business hours are M-F 8am-5pm.
RESPONSIBILITIES & PERFORMANCE MEASURES
Performs a variety of testing functions on various platforms.
Review and follow all prescribed Test Procedures.
Complete all documentation requirements, such as data collection sheets.
Identify failure trends and further detailed analysis.
Set up and operate equipment and machines necessary to service, diagnose and calibrate a wide variety of optical assemblies.
Basic computer knowledge
Good math skills
Ability to read and write English
Plan and lay out all operations required for completion of assignments. Recommend improvements in function, and methods of test procedures.
Maintain accurate records of all tests performed to enable trouble shooting when necessary.
Successful candidates must be positive team players who are committed to excellence
This job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties as necessary.
QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
1. Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering or related field
2. Basic understanding of optical instruments, calibration, and handling lenses
3. Working knowledge of optical theory and principals
4. Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow documented work instructions.
5. Excellent communication skills, including the ability to document inspection results clearly.
6. Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive attitude toward continuous improvement.
7. Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Notes: This job description is not intended to be exhaustive in every respect, but rather to clearly define the fundamental purpose, responsibilities and dimensions for the role. Therefore, this job description does not describe any individual role holder. In addition to the contents of this job description, employees are expected to undertake all other reasonable and related tasks allocated by their line managerThe Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. The Company does not discriminate in employment opportunity or practices on the grounds of gender, race, religion or belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by national laws under which the Company operates.
US Postings ONLY: In the instance that the position will involve having access to items and technical data that may be controlled under U.S. export laws and regulations ("U.S. Export Control Laws"), including but not limited to the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR") and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ("ITAR"). To comply with the U.S. Export Control Laws, and in conjunction with the review of candidates for those positions within G&H that may present access to export-controlled technical data, G&H must assess whether candidates are "U.S. persons" as defined under the EAR (15 C.F.R. Part 772) and the ITAR (22 C.F.R. § 120.15). Certain questions asked during the application process are intended to assess this and will be used for evaluation purposes only. Failure to provide the necessary information in this regard will result in our inability to consider you further for this position.
See All 12 Optical Scientist Jobs in New Hampshire
Find roles in New Hampshire that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Optical Scientist JobsOptical Scientist Jobs by City in New Hampshire
Where New Hampshire roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Optical Scientist Job Market in New Hampshire
A snapshot from current New Hampshire openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Science & Research
- Chemicals & Materials
- Electronics & Hardware
What New Hampshire Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in optical scientist jobs across New Hampshire.
- Bachelor's degree or higher in optical engineering, physics, or a closely related field
- Hands-on experience with optical design software such as Zemax or Code V
- Demonstrated ability to design, fabricate, and test optical systems or components
- Active or obtainable U.S. security clearance for defense and government contract roles
- Experience with laser systems, electro-optical sensors, or photonic device development
- Familiarity with metrology tools and laboratory characterization of optical performance
Optical Scientist Jobs in New Hampshire: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a optical scientist in New Hampshire?
Optical science does not require a state-issued license in New Hampshire, so the path runs through education and employer qualification. Most roles require at least a bachelor's degree in optical engineering, applied physics, or photonics, with graduate degrees preferred at research-focused employers like Dartmouth College or defense contractors in the Nashua corridor. Building lab experience through co-ops or university research programs, then targeting entry roles in optical design or testing, is the most direct route into the New Hampshire market.
Which companies hire optical scientists in New Hampshire?
Companies currently hiring optical scientists in New Hampshire include BAE Systems USA, Bond Optics, and Gooch and Housego, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of July 2026. New Hampshire's defense manufacturing base, anchored by major contractors in the Nashua and Manchester areas, produces the most consistent optical scientist demand in the state.
Which New Hampshire cities have the most optical scientist jobs?
Keene, Salem, and Merrimack have the most optical scientist openings in New Hampshire. Nashua and Manchester lead because of their concentration of defense contractors and precision manufacturing firms, while the Seacoast and Hanover areas contribute openings tied to Dartmouth's research programs and smaller photonics companies drawn to proximity to Boston's technology corridor.
Are there remote optical scientist jobs in New Hampshire?
Yes, but they're rare. Optical science is inherently hands-on, requiring lab access, prototype fabrication, and physical test equipment, which limits how much of the work can be done remotely. About 100% of optical scientist openings tied to New Hampshire are remote or hybrid as of July 2026, and those tend to cover modeling, simulation, or systems analysis tasks rather than fabrication or characterization work.
How can I get hired as a optical scientist in New Hampshire with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry point is a junior optical engineer or associate scientist role at one of New Hampshire's defense contractors, where co-op and new-graduate programs at employers like BAE Systems provide structured onboarding for candidates with limited professional experience. Candidates coming from university physics or engineering programs who can demonstrate hands-on lab work, Zemax proficiency, or a senior capstone project in optics have a clear edge. Lateral entry from adjacent roles in mechanical or electrical engineering is also common when candidates hold relevant coursework in optics or photonics.
Where can I find and apply to optical scientist jobs in New Hampshire?
You can find and apply to optical scientist jobs in New Hampshire on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings in the state. Search the listings, identify the roles that match your background and experience level, and apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 12 Optical Scientist Jobs in New Hampshire
Find roles in New Hampshire that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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