Photonics Packaging Technician III

PHIX•Bozeman, MT

11d

About The Position

The Photonics Packaging Technician III is a senior-level, highly versatile technical specialist responsible for executing complex photonic assembly processes with minimal supervision. The position requires expertise across optical alignment, die attach, wire bonding, metrology, equipment ownership, and cleanroom processing. Technicians at this level serve as process experts, equipment owners, and mentors to junior staff, while contributing to process optimization, cleanroom operations, and manufacturing support. The role includes resolving non-standard issues, supporting engineering trials, and ensuring high-yield, high-reliability photonic assemblies. The position involves advanced photonic assembly and alignment, precision die attach and wire bonding, cleanroom work, metrology, equipment and tooling upkeep, production documentation, and support for safety, compliance, and continuous improvement activities.

Requirements

Associate degree or higher in optics, electronics, or precision engineering.
Extensive hands-on experience in high-precision optical and micro-assembly environments, including photonics and cleanroom manufacturing.
Strong practical understanding of photonic, optical, electronic, and opto-mechanical systems relevant to advanced assembly processes.
Demonstrated ability to independently operate, troubleshoot, and maintain complex manufacturing and alignment equipment.
Ability to work from engineering documentation, including drawings, schematics, work instructions, and SOPs.
Excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and analytical problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in digital documentation tools, production software, and structured reporting.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree or higher in optics, photonics, electronics, precision engineering, or a related technical field.
Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, 5S, SPC, or continuous-improvement practices in photonics, semiconductor, or electronics environments.

Responsibilities

Perform advanced passive and active optical assembly and alignment of PICs, optical fibers, lenses, and opto-mechanical components, ensuring optical performance and assembly quality.
Execute high-precision die attach and advanced ball and wedge wire bonding; troubleshoot bond quality, tooling, and process parameters.
Lead hands-on assembly activities in an ISO 7 cleanroom in compliance with ESD, contamination-control, and PHIX Management System requirements.
Independently resolve complex assembly and alignment challenges and support engineering prototype builds, trials, and process validation.
Conduct advanced optical, mechanical, and electrical metrology; interpret measurement data and support root-cause analysis and process-capability assessments.
Own assigned assembly equipment, tooling, and metrology systems, including maintenance coordination, calibration, troubleshooting, and 5S compliance.
Maintain accurate production and process documentation, including travelers, SOPs, measurement records, and improvement actions.
Support cleanroom operations, including inventory management, facility upkeep, environmental monitoring, and operational readiness.
Support safety, compliance, and operational readiness initiatives involving chemical, laser, and workplace safety, as well as regulatory and quality-system compliance.
Mentor and train junior technicians, support cross-functional collaboration, and contribute to continuous-improvement initiatives.