| Location | Adrian, MI |
Optical Technician
Location:
Adrian, Michigan
About the Position
This is a hands-on optical assembly and testing role supporting the development of advanced imaging and optical systems. You will work directly with optical, mechanical, and electrical engineers to assemble, align, test, and validate precision optical systems used in cutting-edge applications.
The ideal person enjoys working with their hands, thrives in a laboratory or technical environment, and takes pride in precision, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their career looking to gain exposure to advanced optics, imaging systems, and prototype development while working alongside a highly technical engineering team.
Responsibilities
Assemble, align, and integrate optical and optomechanical components including lenses, mirrors, sensors, and related assemblies
Support optical testing, calibration, and performance verification activities
Assist in troubleshooting optical systems and identifying root causes of performance issues
Follow detailed assembly instructions, engineering drawings, and technical documentation
Maintain accurate records of builds, test results, configurations, and engineering changes
Support prototype builds and iterative product development efforts
Collaborate with optical, mechanical, and electrical engineering teams to improve assembly processes and system performance
Assist with inventory management of optical components, tools, fixtures, and laboratory equipment
Support manufacturing, integration, and quality activities as products transition from development into production
Maintain organized workspaces and adhere to quality and safety standards
Who You Are
Most effective in hands-on technical environments rather than behind a desk all day
Detail-oriented and capable of working with small, high-precision components
Comfortable learning new technologies, tools, and technical processes
Strong communicator who works well within collaborative engineering teams
Curious and resourceful when troubleshooting technical challenges
Passionate about technology, engineering, optics, imaging systems, or scientific instrumentation
Experience Requirements
Associate's degree, technical certification, military technical training, or equivalent hands-on experience in optics, engineering technology, physics, electronics, manufacturing, or a related technical discipline
0–3 years of experience in optical assembly, laboratory environments, precision manufacturing, electronics assembly, or related technical fields
Experience working with hand tools, microscopes, measurement equipment, alignment tools, or laboratory instrumentation
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, work instructions, and technical documentation
Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
Comfortable working in a fast-paced engineering and development environment
What You Bring
Basic understanding of optical systems, lenses, mirrors, sensors, or imaging equipment
Experience assembling precision mechanical or technical components
Strong organizational skills and ability to document work accurately
Ability to follow detailed procedures while maintaining quality standards
Effective communication and teamwork skills
Willingness to learn advanced optical alignment, testing, and troubleshooting toltechniques
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with optical alignment equipment such as interferometers, collimators, or alignment lasers
Exposure to optomechanical assemblies, imaging systems, or telescope platforms
Experience working in cleanroom, laboratory, or controlled manufacturing environments
Basic electronics, wiring, or embedded systems knowledge
Familiarity with CAD software such as SolidWorks
Experience supporting prototype development or R&D activities
Personal interest in optics, astronomy, imaging systems, or scientific instrumentation
What Success Looks Like
Assembly & Integration
Within the first six months, you are independently assembling and integrating optical systems while consistently meeting quality and documentation standards.
Testing & Validation
You are supporting optical testing and calibration efforts while developing confidence in troubleshooting and system validation activities.
Technical Growth
You continue expanding your understanding of optics, imaging systems, and optomechanical assemblies while becoming a trusted technical resource within the team.
Collaboration
Engineers and technicians rely on you to execute builds accurately, communicate issues proactively, and support ongoing development efforts.
Quality & Precision
Your work consistently demonstrates the attention to detail, craftsmanship, and precision required for high-performance optical systems.
You should be proficient in: