Electro-Optical Assembly Technician

About the role

This role is critical to ensuring high-quality and reliable electrical and electro-optical assemblies used in Bridger’s Gas Mapping LiDAR sensors, including the photodetector and receiver subassemblies at the heart of each sensor. The ideal candidate has strong hands-on electronics assembly experience, thrives in a precision-driven environment, and is comfortable working with optical, electro-optical, and electro-mechanical components, including detectors, lasers, lenses, and optical fiber.

What you'll do

• Assemble LiDAR sensor electronics, including PCBs, optical subassemblies, and electro-mechanical components, following work instructions, schematics, and drawings
• Perform hand soldering (SMT and through-hole) to IPC standards
• Integrate optical components such as lasers, photodetectors, lenses, and fiber assemblies with electronics
• Assemble photodetector and optical receiver subassemblies, including mounting detectors, lenses, filters, and windows into housings and interfacing them with front-end electronics
• Perform active and passive optical alignment of detectors, lenses, collimators, and fiber components using precision positioning stages, alignment fixtures, and real-time signal feedback to optimize coupling and signal strength
• Bond and secure aligned optics using UV-cure and thermal epoxies, verifying that alignment is maintained through cure and after environmental testing
• Cleave, fusion splice, and terminate optical fiber; route and manage fiber within sensor assemblies without exceeding bend-radius limits
• Clean, inspect, and handle optical surfaces, detectors, and fiber connectors following established procedures, including fiber end-face inspection with a fiber scope
• Characterize electro-optical subassemblies by measuring parameters such as optical power, coupling efficiency, detector responsivity, dark current, noise, and beam pointing
• Conduct functional testing, calibration, and basic troubleshooting of assembled LiDAR units
• Use test equipment such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and power supplies, along with optical test equipment such as optical power meters, beam profilers, optical spectrum analyzers, and IR viewers or cards
• Identify, document, and communicate assembly issues, defects, or process improvements
• Maintain accurate build records, travelers, and quality documentation
• Follow ESD, safety, and cleanroom procedures where required
• Work safely with laser sources, following laser safety procedures, controlled-area requirements, and appropriate eyewear and PPE use
• Support engineering and manufacturing teams during prototyping, NPI, and production ramp-ups
• Assist with rework, repairs, and failure analysis as needed

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or associate degree in electronics, laser/photonics technology, or a related field preferred
• 2+ years of experience in electronics assembly or manufacturing
• Proficiency in hand soldering to IPC-A-610 standards
• Ability to read and interpret schematics, BOMs, and assembly drawings of electro-optic and optical assemblies
• Experience working with small, delicate components requiring high precision
• Comfort working under a microscope and with precision positioning equipment for fine assembly and alignment tasks
• Hands-on experience with optical or electro-optical components, or a demonstrated aptitude and strong willingness to learn precision optical alignment
• Familiarity with ESD-safe practices and quality-controlled manufacturing environments
• Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience assembling LiDAR, optical, or photonics-based products
• IPC certification (e.g., IPC-A-610, J-STD-001)
• Hands-on experience with active optical alignment of detectors, lenses, or fiber components
• Experience assembling or testing photodetectors (e.g., InGaAs or Si photodiodes) and optical receiver modules
• Experience with fiber optic cleaving, fusion splicing, connectorization, and end-face inspection
• Experience with optical adhesives and precision bonding processes, including UV-cure epoxies
• Familiarity with laser safety practices (e.g., ANSI Z136.1) and working in laser-controlled areas
• Familiarity with ISO 9001, AS9100, or similar quality systems
• Experience supporting prototype builds and low-to-mid volume production