Optical Fiber R&D Draw Technician

Coherent • East Granby, CT

2d • Onsite

About The Position

This role is responsible for operating, optimizing, and maintaining the fiber draw tower and associated equipment for novel development projects. The technician will play a key role in process optimization, data collection and analysis, equipment maintenance, documentation, and ensuring safety compliance within an R&D environment. The position requires a strong understanding of optical fiber manufacturing processes and a commitment to company values and safety standards.

Requirements

• Associate degree in engineering, OR in lieu of college degree, 5 years hands on experience in optical fiber manufacturing or a R&D/manufacturing environment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with hands-on experience in operating complex manufacturing, optical, or high-temperature processing equipment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data analysis tools.
• High attention to detail, effective communicator, and the ability to work collaboratively across cross-functional teams.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds on occasion, and comfortably work at heights (e.g., near elevated platforms on draw towers).
• All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Responsibilities

• Set up, monitor, and safely shut down the fiber draw tower and ancillary equipment (e.g., preform preparation, furnaces, coating systems, and spoolers).
• Optimize fiber draw tower processes for novel development projects, including furnace thermal profiles, draw tension control, diameter control systems, coating application, and UV curing to meet fiber performance requirements.
• Adjust draw parameters—such as furnace temperature, draw speed, and tension—to meet experimental and product tolerances and innovate novel fiber fabrication techniques.
• Record detailed processing logs and review fiber performance data to troubleshoot defects and improve product yields.
• Assist in the maintenance, calibration, and modification of draw tower mechanics, electronics, and hardware.
• Assist with writing technical reports, updating standard operating procedures (SOPs), and communicating findings to cross-functional engineering teams.
• Adhere to all safety protocols, including proper handling of materials and wearing of proper personal protective equipment (PPE).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree