Optical Assembly Technician

CLEAR ALIGN LLC; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 50,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Clear Align is seeking an Optical Assembly Technician to assemble, align, and test high-performance optical, mechanical, and electronic systems for defense, aerospace, and commercial applications. You will document results, maintain quality standards, and collaborate across Manufacturing, Engineering, and Quality to drive continuous improvement.

A technical mindset and hands-on precision are essential. The role emphasizes cleanroom-aware assembly, strict adherence to safety procedures, and a

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical degree preferred.
• Minimum five years of manufacturing or precision assembly experience.
• Experience with optical, mechanical, or electro-mechanical systems.
• Familiarity with adhesives, epoxies, micro-soldering, and precision assembly.
• Cleanroom assembly experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assemble optical, mechanical, and electronic subassemblies per engineering documents.
• Perform precision alignment using active and passive alignment techniques.
• Test optical and electrical performance and document results.
• Support incoming inspection activities and production issues resolution.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Quality to improve processes.

Skills

Precision assembly

Optical alignment

Documentation

Quality inspection

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Technical degree preferred

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Height gauges

Interferometers

Soldering

Job description

The Optical Assembly Technician plays a critical role in manufacturing and testing precision electro-optical systems that enable our customers to see clearly, decide faster, and act decisively. This role combines craftsmanship, technical expertise, and attention to detail to assemble, align, integrate, and test high-performance optical, mechanical, and electronic systems used in demanding defense, aerospace, and commercial applications.

The successful candidate will thrive in a hands-on manufacturing environment where precision, quality, continuous improvement, and collaboration are essential to delivering exceptional products and customer satisfaction.

In Your First Year You Will (What Success Looks Like)

First 30 Days

• Learn assembly processes, quality standards, documentation, and safety procedures.
• Become familiar with optical, mechanical, and electronic components.
• Complete training on assembly techniques, cleanliness requirements, and inspection methods.
• Build relationships across Manufacturing, Engineering, and Quality.

By 60 Days

• Assemble optical, mechanical, and electronic subassemblies using engineering documentation.
• Perform precision alignment using active and passive alignment techniques.
• Perform optical and electrical testing and document results.
• Support incoming inspection activities.

By 90 Days

• Independently assemble and align multi-element optical systems.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Quality to resolve manufacturing issues.
• Verify assemblies using precision measurement tools.
• Recommend improvements to quality and efficiency.

How You Know You Are Winning

• Precision assemblies consistently meet quality, performance, and delivery expectations.
• Optical alignment is accurate and repeatable.
• Documentation is complete and accurate.
• Production issues are resolved collaboratively.
• Process improvements strengthen efficiency and quality.
• Work areas remain organized and compliant.
• Teammates rely on you to consistently produce high-quality work.

Position Requirements

Who You Are

• You take pride in producing precision work where details matter.
• You enjoy hands-on technical work and solving complex assembly challenges.
• You are dependable, organized, and accountable.
• You communicate effectively and collaborate across departments.
• You continuously seek opportunities to learn and improve.

Desired Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; technical degree preferred.
• Recommended minimum five years of manufacturing or precision assembly experience.
• Experience assembling optical, mechanical, or electro-mechanical systems preferred.
• Experience with adhesives, epoxies, micro-soldering, and precision assembly.
• Familiarity with calipers, micrometers, and height/drop gauges.
• Experience with Microsoft Office.
• Familiarity with interferometers, MTF testing, or Scratch/Dig standards is a plus.
• Cleanroom assembly experience is preferred.
• Experience with Quality Management Systems is a plus.
• Must qualify as a U.S. Person under applicable export regulations.

At Clear Align we have a clear vision: to be the place where a diverse mix of talented people come, stay and do their best work. We pride ourselves on bringing the best infrared surveillance solutions, and we know our company runs on the hard work and dedication of our passionate and creative employees.