Optical Assembly Technician

A leading photonics company based in Bozeman, Montana is at the forefront of designing and fabricating advanced optical waveguide components using nonlinear materials such as lithium niobate and KTP. Serving industries ranging from defense and remote sensing to quantum information science, the organization combines research and development with precision manufacturing to deliver high-performance optical solutions. Their collaborative environment and commitment to innovation make them an exciting place to grow a career in optics and photonics.

Position: Optical Assembly Technician

We are seeking a detail-oriented Optical Assembly Technician to join the production team and support the assembly and characterization of waveguide-based optical components. This hands-on role involves working in laboratory settings including optics, electronics, chemistry labs, and occasionally clean rooms to perform tasks critical to the fabrication and testing of precision photonic devices.

Key Responsibilities

• Polish and inspect fiber-optic and waveguide facets.
• Align and characterize fiber optics and waveguides.
• Solder and test electronic components.
• Characterize devices for frequency conversion and phase modulation.
• Collaborate with fabrication and design teams to fulfill customer orders.
• Communicate technical issues and successes with peers and supervisors.
• Perform measurements and report results to the product development team.

Required Qualifications

• Basic understanding of optics and/or photonic components
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions in a lab setting
• High level of dexterity for delicate, hands-on tasks
• Strong attention to detail in precision processes
• Ability to stand for extended periods, often in low-light lab environments
• U.S. Citizenship

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with polishing techniques
• Familiarity with microscope-based inspection
• 2+ years working with optical systems
• Associates degree or higher in optics or a related scientific field
• Proven ability to align fiber optic components and/or lasers
• Understanding of electro-optic modulation and frequency conversion
• Experience writing or following standard operating procedures
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Excel, Word)