Optical Mechanic
An Optical Mechanic manufactures and repairs optical instruments, lenses, and precision optical devices. This trade involves precision grinding, polishing, and assembly of glass and other optical materials used in scientific, industrial, and consumer products.
Full-time AUD, 2025 indicative. Wide bands reflect variation by employer, experience, and location.
Demand is niche, concentrated in scientific instrument manufacturing and defence optics sectors; competition for roles is low but opportunities are limited.
Occupation list membership
Which Department of Home Affairs skilled lists this occupation currently appears on.
- CSOLCombined Skilled Occupation List
The merged skilled list that consolidates previous MLTSSL and STSOL eligibility under the Skills in Demand program.
Assessing authority
The body that assesses skills for migration purposes for this occupation.
- TRATrades Recognition AustraliaVisit official site →
Visa pathways
Australian visa subclasses for which this occupation is currently eligible.
- 186Learn more →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 482Learn more →Skills in Demand visa
Employer-sponsored temporary visa (formerly TSS) for occupations on the relevant list.
- 494Learn more →Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa
Five-year employer-sponsored provisional visa in regional Australia, with a path to PR.
Key duties
- Grind, polish, and finish optical surfaces to precise specifications
- Assemble and align optical components in instruments and systems
- Test and calibrate optical equipment using precision measuring tools
- Maintain optical machinery and equipment in production facilities
Skills required
- Precision manual skills in grinding and polishing optical materials
- Knowledge of optical materials and their properties
- Use of precision measuring instruments such as interferometers and autocollimators
- Understanding of quality control processes for optical manufacture
Typical qualifications pathway
Relevant apprenticeship or vocational qualification in optical mechanics or precision engineering is typical. TRA is the assessing authority for migration purposes.
Visa & occupation list information
This occupation appears on the CSOL. Eligible Australian skilled visa pathways include subclasses 186, 482, and 494. State nominations are available from nominating states and territories. For advice on which pathway suits your circumstances, consult a registered MARA migration agent.
anzsco.com.au is information-only. For personalised advice on your situation, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.
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