Crystal Wafer Fabrication Technician

Gooch & Housego Pal Alto; Fremont (CA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Gooch & Housego in Fremont, CA is seeking a Crystal Wafer Fabrication Technician to fabricate, process, and inspect precision optical and crystal components for advanced photonics. You will operate and monitor fabrication equipment including slicing, dicing, lapping, grinding and polishing.

The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to maintain high-quality standards at tight tolerances. Training may be provided for qualified applicants.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years in crystal/optical fabrication or precision manufacturing.
• Ability to read technical drawings and documentation.
• Experience with precision measuring tools and close tolerances.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and monitor crystal and optical fabrication equipment.
• Perform boule slicing, dicing saw operations, lapping, grinding, and polishing.
• Inspect components with precision measuring tools and metrology equipment.
• Read blueprints, travelers, and process documentation.
• Support continuous improvement and production floor initiatives.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and engineering teams to improve productivity.

Skills

Strong mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Reading technical drawings

Teamwork

Problem solving

Communication skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

CNC equipment

Precision measuring tools

Optical metrology equipment

Job description

About this position

Description:

ABOUT US

G&H is a world leader in optical designing, testing and manufacturing. As experts in the technology of light, G&H works with customers to provide optical systems, assemblies, and components for demanding applications.

Headquartered in Ilminster Somerset, UK with primary operations in the USA and Europe, G&H is recognized for the breadth of their acousto-optic, electro-optic, crystal-optic, fiber optic, and precision optic products. G&H is recognized as the preferred source for OEMs in the life sciences, industrial, and aerospace and defense industries, with a history of quality and excellence that dates back over seventy-five years.

THE ROLE

The Crystal Wafer Fabrication Technician is responsible for fabricating, processing, and inspecting precision optical and crystal components used in advanced photonics applications. This role operates and monitors manufacturing equipment used in crystal fabrication processes, including slicing, dicing, lapping, grinding, and polishing. The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to maintain high-quality standards while working within tight tolerances.

Candidates with crystal fabrication, optical fabrication, precision manufacturing, machining, or other hands-on technical experience are encouraged to apply. Training may be provided for qualified candidates.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Set up, operate, and monitor crystal and optical fabrication equipment.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance
• Perform boule slicing, dicing saw operations, lapping, grinding, and polishing of optical and crystalline materials.
• Inspect components using precision measuring tools and optical metrology equipment.
• Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, travelers, and process documentation.
• Maintain dimensional and cosmetic quality requirements while meeting production goals.
• Make basic machine and process adjustments as needed.
• Support continuous improvement, process documentation, and production floor initiatives.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and engineering teams to improve productivity, quality, and efficiency.
• Follow all safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized work environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with crystal fabrication processes, including slicing, dicing, lapping, and polishing preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.
• Ability to use precision measuring tools and maintain close tolerances.
• Ability to read technical drawings and manufacturing documentation.
• Knowledge of optical, glass, or crystal materials is a plus.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• High School Diploma or GED required.

EXPERIENCE

• Ideal candidate will have 3-5 years of experience in crystal fabrication, optical fabrication, precision manufacturing, machining, or a related technical field
• Experience with CNC or conventional fabrication equipment is highly desirable.
• Additional experience with wafer fabrication preferred but not required

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Comfortable performing repetitive tasks and monitoring multiple machines.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with machinery and moderate to loud noise levels.
• Must be able to wear required PPE.

Requirements

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. The Company does not discriminate in employment opportunity or practices on the grounds of gender, race, religion or belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by national laws under which the Company operates.

Additional Information: This position may involve access to items and technical data controlled under U.S. export laws and regulations. Candidates will be evaluated based on their status as "U.S. persons" as defined under the EAR (15 C.F.R. Part 772) and the ITAR (22 C.F.R. § 120.15).

Salary Information

$25 - $30Hourly Wage