Optical Polisher/Master Optician (Photonics & Laser Optics)

Gooch & Housego Cleveland•Highland Heights, OH

About The Position

We are seeking a skilled Optical Polisher / Master Optician to join our precision manufacturing team. This role is responsible for the fabrication, polishing, and finishing of high-precision optical components used in laser, photonics, and advanced optical systems. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with optical fabrication processes and is capable of producing high-quality surfaces that meet strict optical and dimensional specifications.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent; technical training in optics, precision manufacturing, or related field preferred.
10+ years of experience in optical fabrication, polishing, or precision finishing.
Strong understanding of optical materials such as BK7, fused silica, sapphire, and other specialty materials.
Experience with optical polishing techniques including pitch polishing, loose abrasive polishing, or CNC polishing.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and optical specifications.
Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity.

Nice To Haves

Experience in laser optics, photonics, or defense/aerospace optical manufacturing.
Familiarity with interferometric testing and optical metrology.
Experience achieving high surface quality standards for use in UV applications (e.g., scratch-dig specifications such as 10-5 or better).
Knowledge of optical coatings and finishing requirements.
Experience working in cleanroom or controlled manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

Perform precision polishing and finishing of crystalline and optical components including rectangular prisms and optical substrates.
Operate and maintain optical fabrication equipment such as polishing machines, pitch polishers, and CNC optical polishing systems.
Prepare polishing tools, laps, and slurries for various materials (crystals, glass, fused silica, , etc...).
Monitor polishing processes to achieve required surface quality, flatness, and figure.
Inspect optical surfaces using metrology equipment (interferometers, profilometers, microscopes, etc.).
Work from engineering drawings, specifications, and optical tolerances.
Perform troubleshooting and adjustments during fabrication processes.
Maintain high standards of cleanliness to prevent contamination of optical surfaces.
Document production data and inspection results.
Collaborate with engineering and quality teams to meet performance and production goals.