Optical Test Technician

COKA; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

COKA is seeking an Optical Test Lab Technician in San Francisco to support validation of silicon photonics and interconnect products. You will set up test benches, run measurements, and document results under Optical Test Engineers.

This hands-on role emphasizes precision, reliability, and adherence to safety while preparing fixtures, wiring and calibration routines, with opportunities to grow into more advanced roles.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree or technical certificate in optics, photonics, or related field.
• 1–3 years in a lab, test, or manufacturing environment with fiber optics or precision assembly.
• Precise, hands-on work with small components and microscope work.
• Familiarity with optical/electrical test equipment or willingness to learn.
• Basic computer literacy and ability to run scripted procedures; Python is a plus.
• Strong documentation and strict adherence to procedures.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and maintain optical test benches and fixtures per procedures.
• Perform routine optical measurements (insertion loss, return loss, power) with micron/sub‑micron alignment.
• Assist with assembly and wiring of custom test fixtures and jigs by engineering.
• Run pre-written Python scripts to automate data collection and flag anomalies.
• Calibrate and maintain optical test equipment and light sources according to schedule.
• Prepare and clean fiber components (cleaving, cleaning, splicing, connectorizing).
• Record test data and organize samples, cables, and equipment for smooth lab operation.
• Support test station bring-up and document setup steps, ensuring safety.

Skills

Fine motor skills

Attention to detail

Documentation

Following procedures

Python basics

Education

Associate's degree or technical certificate (Optics/Photonics)

Tools

Power meters

Light sources

Multimeters

Oscilloscopes

Fiber connectors

Job description

Our client is building next-generation optical interconnect solutions that enable true system-level integration for hyperscale data centers. They combine expertise in silicon photonics, packaging, fiber connectivity and system integration to deliver products that set new standards for performance, density, and scalability to drive the next generation of artificial intelligence.

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented Optical Test Lab Technician to support the validation and characterization of our silicon photonics and optical interconnect products. In this role, you will work under the direction of Optical Test Engineers to set up, run, and maintain hands‑on lab testing, keeping our test benches organized, calibrated, and ready for high‑precision, sub‑micron scale alignment work. This is an execution‑focused, hands‑on role for someone who enjoys precise, methodical bench work and wants to build a career in optical test and photonics.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and maintain optical test benches and fixtures under the direction of Optical Test Engineers, following established test procedures.
• Perform routine and repetitive optical measurements (e.g., insertion loss, return loss, optical power) with attention to micron and sub‑micron scaled alignment requirements.
• Assist with the assembly, wiring, and basic mechanical build‑up of custom test fixtures and jigs designed by engineering.
• Run pre‑written Python test scripts to automate data collection; flag anomalies or failures for engineering follow‑up.
• Maintain, clean, and calibrate optical test equipment, including light sources, power meters, fiber connectors, and alignment stages, following calibration schedules.
• Prepare and clean fiber optic components (cleaving, cleaning, splicing, connectorizing) to support test setups.
• Record test data accurately in lab notebooks, spreadsheets, or databases, and organize samples, cables, and equipment to keep the lab running smoothly.
• Support engineers during new test station bring‑up by helping stage equipment, run initial checkouts, and document setup steps.
• Follow all lab safety procedures, especially those related to laser safety and handling of small, sensitive optical components.

Key Qualifications

• Associate's degree or technical certificate in Optics, Electronics, Photonics Technology, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering Technology, or a related field; equivalent hands‑on experience (e.g., military, manufacturing, or lab technician background) also considered.
• 1‑3 years of experience in a lab, test, or manufacturing environment, ideally involving fiber optics, electronics, or precision mechanical assembly.
• Comfortable with fine, precise hands‑on work (e.g., handling fiber optic connectors, small components, or working under a microscope).
• Basic familiarity with optical or electrical test equipment (power meters, light sources, multimeters, oscilloscopes) or a strong willingness to learn.
• Basic computer literacy; ability to run and follow scripted procedures (Python experience a plus, but not required).
• Strong attention to detail, good documentation habits, and ability to follow written procedures precisely and safely.

Preferred Skills

• Prior experience with fiber optic handling: cleaving, cleaning, splicing, or connectorization.
• Exposure to a semiconductor, electronics, or photonics manufacturing environment.
• Basic Python or scripting familiarity for running or modifying simple test scripts.
• Familiarity with laser safety practices and cleanroom or ESD‑controlled environments.
• Interest in growing into an Optical Test Engineer or similar technical role over time.