Optics Technician II

Thorlabs•Newton, NJ

8h•$19 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

The Optics Technician II works on a team manufacturing photonics products, with occasional assistance from experienced team members. The role involves preparing materials, operating optical manufacturing equipment, performing in-process measurements, and maintaining production records. The position is based in Newton, New Jersey, and may occasionally require duties at other Thorlabs locations. The technician works with glass and precision optical and mechanical components to produce items such as windows, mirrors, prisms, filters, and lenses. The work requires reading written work instructions and technical drawings, maintaining quality standards, participating in troubleshooting and continuous improvement, and following safety procedures. The role also includes assisting with training less experienced team members and cross-training in multiple production areas.

Requirements

At least 4 years of manufacturing experience and related technical education.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to work in a team environment and comply with high quality standards.
Good work ethic.
Strong attention to detail.
Ability to shift between tasks as production priorities change.
Basic mathematics knowledge.
Proficiency in basic computer skills, such as Microsoft Office.
Ability to understand written work instructions and technical drawings.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment and safely handle chemicals and operate job-related equipment and tools.
Ability to stand or sit for extended periods, perform repetitive work, and lift or move objects up to 20 pounds.
Ability to grasp, manipulate, or assemble small parts and components.

Responsibilities

Prepare raw materials for processing using blocking methods such as wax, pitch, film, and optical contacting.
Remove work from tooling and clean and prepare tooling for the next process.
Perform daily maintenance and upkeep of assigned machines.
Load, unload, and operate optical manufacturing equipment, including cutting, edging, grinding, and polishing machines.
Use conventional, double-sided, and CNC equipment to work on glass and manufacture optical components such as windows, mirrors, prisms, filters, and lenses.
Perform visual, optical, and mechanical measurements using metrology devices such as hand tools, microscopes, test plates, autocollimators, profilometers, and interferometers.
Identify issues and participate in troubleshooting efforts.
Assist with training less experienced team members.
Cross-train to work in multiple production areas.
Handle and clean precision optics and mechanical components.
Sort and count parts and materials, and examine them for defects.
Follow written work instructions and technical drawings to manufacture products to quality standards while aiming to avoid scrap or rework.
Maintain accurate records in the Manufacturing Database.
Participate in continuous improvement efforts.
Comply with the company safety program and maintain a clean and organized work area.
Meet company standards for quantity and quality of work and comply with company policies, procedures, and workplace behavior directives.
Undertake duties at other Thorlabs locations when required.