Sr. Optical Engineering Technician

Job Description

Job Description**Job Summary

**

Assembles, calibrates, tests, operates, and repairs complex eyesafe and non-eyesafe laser systems (like rangefinders, guidance systems, and electro-optical sensors) used in defense applications, requiring precision skills, deep understanding of electronics/optics, strict adherence to safety protocols, and strong diagnostic abilities to support manufacturing, field deployment, and R&D for advanced military hardware.

**KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

**

• Perform electro-mechanical assembly of components and systems following engineering instructions, drawings, and specifications.

• Analyze and interpret complex mechanical and electrical schematics and test instructions, ensuring precise execution of assembly, and testing procedures

• Execute the assembly, testing, operation and handling of complex, precision electro-optical assemblies and lasers using precise attention to detail, and strict adherence to process, PPE and safety protocols.

• Diagnose and troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and optical components, including but not limited to lasers, motors, sensors and wire harness assemblies, to ensure optimal system performance and reliability

• Investigate and resolve assembly level defects by collaborating with senior technicians and engineers, contributing to continuous product development and process improvement

• Assist in the design, setup, and calibration of test equipment and fixtures.

• Support engineering teams by performing routine and non-routine testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance of mechanical and electrical components.

• Effectively manage multiple priorities, balancing assembly, testing, and troubleshooting tasks to meet critical project timelines and production goals

• Engage in cross-functional collaboration, work closely with Operations Engineers, production teams, and management to tackle complex technical challenges and drive innovative solutions

• Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and other team members to ensure successful project completion.

• Ensure meticulous documentation, maintaining detailed records of assembly, maintenance, test results, troubleshooting efforts and implemented solutions

• Adhere to company safety protocols and quality standards.

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, identifying inefficiencies in assembly processes, recommending enhancements, and implementing best practices to optimize system quality and workflow efficiency.

• Present recommendations and analysis to management and cross-functional teams.

• Provide training, coaching, and technical guidance to junior technicians.

**REQUIRED CAPABILITIES

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• U.S. Citizenship required due to government contract requirements

• Proficiency in soldering techniques and experience with complex solder rework.

• Experience with optical cable installation and routing.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical manuals.

• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

• Detail-oriented with a commitment to producing high-quality work.

• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Familiarity with industry safety standards and practices.

• Certification in IPC-A-610 or J-STD-001.

• Experience with cleanroom environments and ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) protocols.

• Previous experience working in aerospace, defense, or high-tech industries.

• Excellent communication, technical writing, and presentation skills

• Technical Proficiency – Strong ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, mechanical drawings and test procedures

• Electro-Mechanical and Electro-Optical Technology Expertise – Experience in assembling, configuring, and testing complex electromechanical and Electro-Optical systems

• Troubleshooting & Diagnostics – Skilled in identifying, analyzing and resolving electrical, mechanical and optical issues

• Software & Firmware Handling – Ability to load, configure and verify software on integrated hardware systems

• Environmental & Performance Testing – Proficiency in operating large test equipment

• Critical thinking, analytical, able to draw conclusions quickly, open to new ideas, take on new responsibilities, handle pressure, and adjust plans and priorities to changing needs.

• Strong communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders at all levels.

• Attention to detail, with the ability to identify and resolve issues quickly and effectively.

• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to think creatively and develop innovative solutions.

• Ability to lift and carry equipment up to 50lbs

• Ability to work additional hours during evenings and weekends to meet customer needs.

**EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE

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• Associate’s degree and a minimum of 12 years of prior relevant experience or equivalent combination of experience and education

• 12+ years’ experience reading and executing optical / laser system test procedures, operating instructions, drawings, schematics and specifications in a DoD manufacturing environment

• 10+ years’ experience with optical/electrical/electronic troubleshooting

• 10+ years of experience in opto-mechanical development and assembly

Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.