Manufacturing Technician II, Optics

The position will be responsible for the generation of Volume Phase Holographics (VPH) predominantly for the purpose of producing gratings. The individual would work initially to help establish procedures and techniques required for production. The technician will then be expected to prepare substrates, uniformly coat gelatin, write the hologram, and arrange the optic for use.

Essential Job Functions include the following, but are not limited to:

• Help develop, read, follow, execute and aid in maintaining requirements for production from approved prints and other work instructions.
• Work from production check lists, procedures, instructions, customer and unit records, technical prints, and similar documentation.
• Assist in the assembly and testing of new equipment.
• Cleaning and preparing the glass substrates for film coating.
• Proper handling of critical and sensitive optical components.
• Precise mixing of materials for Dichromated Gelatin.
• Coating the substrate with mixed gelatin solution. Primarily spun on.
• Curing coated plates and preparing them for proper storage.
• Familiarize and train with laser system in use including basic laser safety SOPs.
• Fine alignment with kinematic opto-mechanical mounts to achieve collimation of a free-beam laser, utilizing polarization optics, spatial filters, and reflectors (plano and parabolic).
• Format correct geometry with precise angles to produce the desired VPH. Typically producing specific line spacing for gratings.
• Trained in processing of exposed (written grating) in chemistry (fixer, water and isopropyl alcohol).
• Verifying grating efficiency and performance through use of spectrometers and other equipment.
• Tune, cure, and seal grating in preparation for product use.
• Performing any cutting, scribing, or grinding operations as needed.
• Perform final QC using the developed procedure.
• Basic understanding of the physics of volume phase gratings.
• Assembles complete products according to engineering instructions, technical manuals, and knowledge of electronic systems and components.
• Diagnose hardware and software issues to isolate areas of potential or actual problems and make required modifications to suit current requirements.
• Handle special orders and a variety of custom optics in a reasonable allotment of time.

Qualifications

Experience:

• Minimum 2 years of experience with:
• Using optical testing and metrology equipment
• Basic mechanical inspection (calipers, micrometers)
• Handling and optic cleaning
• “Hands-on” experience in a high tech optics manufacturing environment

Education:

• High School diploma or equivalent is required. Additional STEM education is preferred.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• This production group is a new competency for Thorlabs requiring an individual with the right mindset and work ethic to succeed in this setting.
• Knowledge of optics, cleaning, testing and troubleshooting process.
• Knowledge of high power laser alignment and safety.
• Ability to diagnose and repair optical systems and components.
• Proficiency in basic computer use (MS Office) and communication tools.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a small, close-knit team doing fast paced work.
• Ability to multi-task, shifting from one task to another when required. Addressing changing production priorities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.