Assembly Technician

Dimer Instruments; Santa Barbara (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Dimer Instruments in Santa Barbara is seeking an Assembly Technician I to build mechanical, electro-mechanical, and optical subassemblies per manufacturing documents. You will collaborate with optics technicians, engineering, and quality to keep production on schedule and ensure each unit is built right the first time.

The role may cross-train in other operations areas such as stockroom, receiving, and shipping based on business needs.

Qualifications

• Manufacturing experience in precision instrument assembly.
• High school diploma or equivalent; technical electronics cert a plus.
• Ability to read and follow assembly drawings, work instructions and travelers.
• Experience using standard hand tools.
• Good manual dexterity for handling small components.
• Experience with delicate optics/electronics a plus.
• Soldering experience a plus.
• Familiar with computers and MS Office.
• Quality minded with strong attention to detail.
• Able to stand for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Assemble mechanical, electro-mechanical, and optical subassemblies per instructions.
• Perform in-process and final inspections using basic test equipment; record results.
• Identify defects and nonconforming parts; perform directed rework.
• Complete manufacturing records and job travelers; ensure traceability.
• Support technicians with subassembly prep and kit assembly to keep production moving.
• Maintain a clean, organized, ESD-safe work area.
• Suggest improvements to workflows and fixtures to improve yield.
• Operate per ISO9001 and safety procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Manual dexterity

Read drawings

Hand tools

Team collaboration

Quality minded

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical certificate in electronics

Tools

Measuring instruments

Calipers

Multimeters

Job description

At Dimer Instruments, we are developing the next-generation laboratory and process analytical tools for the pharmaceutical industry. Our products use multiple light-based spectroscopic methods to analyze solutions containing molecules and particles. This provides researchers with organized information, enabling them to make informed decisions. Additionally, our products provide automated process systems with the feedback needed for Quality-by-Design (QbD). At Dimer, you will work with a talented and collaborative team of engineers and scientists to create impactful products. We have fun while creating great products.

Summary

As an Assembly Technician I, you will build mechanical, electro-mechanical, and optical subassemblies and finished instruments in accordance with manufacturing documentation (assembly instructions, drawings, job travelers, etc.) using a variety of hand tools, measuring devices, and basic test equipment. You will work closely with Optics Technicians, Engineering, and Quality to keep production on schedule and build every unit right the first time. This role may also cross-train in other areas of Operations, such as the stockroom, receiving, and shipping, based on business needs

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Build mechanical, electro-mechanical, and optical subassemblies and finished instruments per work instructions (WRK’s) and job travelers.
• Perform in-process and final inspections using measuring tools and basic test equipment (e.g., multimeters, optical power meters fiber microscopes); record results.
• Identify and flag defects, nonconforming parts, and out-of-spec results; perform rework as directed by engineering, quality and operations.
• Complete manufacturing records and job travelers accurately; ensure documentation is complete and traceable.
• Support Optics Technicians with subassembly preparation, component cleaning, and kitting to keep the production queue moving.
• Maintain a clean, organized, ESD-safe work area; perform routine cleaning of benches, tools, and fixtures.
• Suggest improvements to WIs, fixtures, and assembly methods to improve yield and reduce variation.
• Operate under ISO9001 expectations and follow all safety procedures.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Experience: Previous manufacturing experience in precision instrument assembly, electronics, electro-mechanical, optics/photonics preferred.
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Technical certificate or coursework in electronics, manufacturing, or a related field a plus.
• Ability to read and follow assembly drawings, work instructions, and job travelers.
• Experience using standard hand tools - screwdrivers, cutters, crimpers, torque drivers, etc.
• Requires good manual dexterity and the ability to use hands and arms to hold, control, or feel objects.
• Experience using or handling small, delicate components (optics, fiber, or electronics) a plus.
• Hand soldering experience a plus.
• Familiarity with computers as applicable to manufacturing; experience with standard Microsoft Office tools.
• Possess a quality minded work ethic and strong attention to detail.
• Interface in a collaborative manner to foster effective and inspiring group dynamics.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, often for most of the workday.

Physical Requirements

When working in the machine shop, chemistry lab, or optics lab, appropriate protective gear must be worn, including safety glasses, laser/UV eye protection, lab coats, and closed-toed shoes. Role requires fine motor skills for handling small components and the ability to work at a bench/test station for extended periods (sit and/or standing). Capable of lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying objects, often up to 50 pounds, though the frequency of lifting heavier objects varies

Office space, optics lab, chemistry lab, warehouse, and electronics/optical manufacturing areas. The employee may occasionally be exposed to moderate noise levels (e.g., loud fans in electronics equipment). Occasional travel may be required for training.