Coating Technician

LohnStar Optics, Inc.; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

LohnStar Optics, Inc. in San Diego, CA is seeking a Coating Technician to perform on-site substrate preparation and operate thin film deposition systems. You will load/unload chambers, monitor process parameters, and document runs and inspection results to ensure quality coatings.

The role requires following detailed instructions, collaborating with engineers and production teams, and maintaining a safe, clean work area while supporting continuous improvement of coating processes.

Qualifications

• Experience operating production equipment.
• Ability to follow complex process instructions precisely.
• Strong teamwork and communication with engineers and staff.

Responsibilities

• Prepare optical substrates for coating processes.
• Load and unload coating chambers according to procedures.
• Operate thin film deposition equipment as specified.
• Monitor process parameters and maintain documentation.
• Perform basic equipment maintenance and clean work area.
• Inspect coated parts and document results; measure film performance with test equipment.
• Collaborate with engineering and production to meet delivery/quality targets.
• Follow safety protocols and support continuous process improvement.

Skills

Hands-on equipment operation

Follow detailed work instructions

Teamwork and communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Company Description LohnStar Optics, Inc. specializes in high-quality, custom thin film coatings for advanced optical applications. Its coatings are used on components such as Quantum Cascade Lasers, Beam Splitters, CO2 Lasers, Er:YAG Lasers, and in Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (CRDS). The company’s capabilities support a broad range of industries, including industrial, military, medical, research, and aerospace. Team members at LohnStar Optics contribute to precision manufacturing that supports cutting-edge technologies and demanding performance environments.

Role Description The Coating Technician is a full-time, on-site role based in San Diego, CA. This position is responsible for preparing optical substrates, loading and unloading coating chambers, and operating thin film deposition equipment according to established procedures and specifications. Day-to-day tasks include monitoring process parameters, performing basic equipment maintenance, and documenting coating runs and inspection results. The Coating Technician will inspect coated parts for quality, measure film performance using test equipment, and collaborate with engineering and production teams to meet delivery and quality targets. The role also involves following safety protocols, maintaining a clean work area, and supporting continuous improvement of coating processes.

Qualifications

• Candidates should possess hands-on skills in operating production equipment.
• Candidates should possess skills in following detailed work instructions, adhering to process specifications, and maintaining consistent attention to detail in a manufacturing environment.
• Candidates should possess teamwork and communication skills, including the ability to collaborate with engineers, production staff, and quality personnel to resolve issues and improve processes.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in thin film coating, precision manufacturing, optics, or semiconductor environments is not mandatory.
• Candidates who are mechanically-inclined are highly preferred.