Production Operator - Level 1

Northrop Grumman • Charlotte, NC

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Northrop Grumman’s Space Sector is seeking a Production Operator – Level 1 to join SYNOPTICS in Charlotte, North Carolina. This position is 100% onsite and cannot accommodate telecommuting. SYNOPTICS grows, fabricates, and coats crystalline materials used in laser systems, serving the photonics and optics industry.

The role performs crystal rod fabrication operations, including blocking, grinding, beveling, polishing, measuring, and inspecting various rod materials and configurations in accordance with specifications and the production schedule. The operator sets up and operates polishing processes, measures geometrical properties, and inspects surface quality under a microscope to verify specifications. Work must follow technical instructions, engineering blueprints, and applicable tolerances, while complying with ISO 9001 quality and EHS management systems.

The position also uses an electronic Shop Floor Control system for data entry and scanning parts through routing steps, and requires maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work area. Hazardous materials include solvents, epoxy, polishing slurries, and coolant.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic computer skills using Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Effective communication skills with peers, engineering, and management.
• Manual dexterity, a strong work ethic, ability to multitask, a positive attitude, and willingness to learn.

Nice To Haves

• Good visual acuity, strong basic math skills, and attention to detail.
• Ability to use measurement equipment, work in metric or English units, read detailed instructions, interpret engineering prints, maintain written records, and keep an organized work environment using 5S principles.

Responsibilities

• Perform crystal rod fabrication operations, including blocking, grinding, beveling, polishing, measuring, and inspection.
• Set up and operate polishing processes.
• Measure geometrical properties and visually inspect surface quality under a microscope to verify conformance to specifications.
• Follow technical work instructions, understand engineering blueprints, and verify conformance to specifications within given tolerances.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area.
• Use the electronic Shop Floor Control system for data entry and scanning parts through applicable routing steps.
• Perform work in compliance with ISO 9001 quality and EHS management systems.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Savings plan.
• Company-paid holidays.
• Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
• Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED