Optics Technician - Coating (2nd Shift)

AMETEK Inc.; Middlefield (CT); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Zygo in Middlefield, CT is hiring a Coating Optics Technician for the 2nd shift. You will deposit optical coatings on optics, monitor the vacuum chamber, and handle components with precision.

The role emphasizes safety, quality, and collaboration within a manufacturing environment. Expect to work with spectrophotometers and laser-photometers to verify coatings, maintain chamber equipment, and support documentation and instructions as needed.

Qualifications

• 0–3 years hands-on production/manufacturing experience or equivalent knowledge.
• Reading and interpreting complex drawings and written specs is essential.
• Capable of lifting up to 70 lbs and standing for long periods.

Responsibilities

• Clean and prepare optical components and monitor vacuum chamber during coating deposition.
• Load components on fixtures and operate chamber for various coatings.
• Select chemicals and assist in creating optical work instructions.
• Test coatings with spectrophotometers and laser-photometers and record data.
• Maintain and troubleshoot chamber equipment and adhere to safety rules.

Skills

Mathematical aptitude

Read technical drawings

Manual dexterity

Team player

Independent worker

Organized worker

Basic computer skills

Safety-conscious

Adaptable to shifting priorities

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate’s Degree preferred

Tools

Vacuum systems knowledge

Vacuum chamber operation

Spectrophotometers

Laser-photometers

Job description

Job Title: Optics Technician - Coating (2nd Shift)

Location: Middlefield, CT, US, 06455

Business Unit: Zygo

Posting Date: Oct 12, 2026

Job Description: At Zygo, your skills and insights will be integral to our core values of curiosity, collaboration, and persistence. For over 50 years, Zygo Corporation in Middlefield, CT, has been a global leader in designing and manufacturing advanced optical metrology systems, ultra-precise optical components, and complex electro-optical systems and assemblies. Join our team, where your expertise will drive cutting-edge solutions, address complex technical challenges, and uphold the highest standards of precision and safety. We are seeking a Coating Optician to join our precision Middlefield Optics team. As a Coating Optics Technician (2nd Shift), you will be responsible for the processes associated with depositing optical coatings on optical surfaces.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Clean optical components and monitor vacuum chamber for the deposition of optical coatings on optical surfaces. Hand or ultrasonically clean and inspect optical components in preparation of depositing optical coatings on optical surfaces.
• Load optical components on standard, special or improvised fixtures and place them in vacuum chamber. Operate and monitor vacuum chamber for the deposition of metal, anti-reflection, single, polarizing, dielectric, and multi-layer coatings.
• Select, measure, and place the applicable chemicals in vacuum chamber.
• Assist in the creation and revision of optical work instructions.
• Test coatings with spectrophotometers, laser-photometers and interpret, record and file test data.
• Perform periodic chamber cleaning and maintenance such as pump oil changes, feedthrough rebuilding, ionization gauge tube replacement, tool sandblasting, and bearing replacement.
• Remove coatings in various acid baths.
• Troubleshoot hardware and software issues
• Follow prescribed safety rules and regulations

REQUIRED SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• High School Diploma or GED, Associate’s Degree preferred
• 0-3 years of hands-on production manufacturing/operations or a working knowledge of one or more: mechanics, electronics or vacuum systems
• Solid mathematical aptitude
• Ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings, written specifications, and verbal instructions
• Excellent manual dexterity and attention to detail to handle delicate optical components
• Collaborative team player with a focus on problem-solving
• Ability to work independently and to be flexible/adaptable with shifting priorities
• Organized, conscientious and focused
• Basic computer skills for data entry, documentation, and communication
• Capable to lift and move up to 70 lbs. and standing for extended periods of time
• Driven to achieve with a commitment to quality with a safety-first mindset
• Resilient, resourceful and responsive

Bring your passion and commitment to Zygo, where we are curious, collaborative, persistent, and confident, where safety and quality guide every step of our journey. Grow with us as we solve complex challenges, inspire confidence, and drive excellence in manufacturing.

Are you ready to expand the boundaries of possibility, simplify the complex, and embody the values that define our success? We welcome your unique perspective and invite you to join us!

We offer competitive compensation, benefits, retirement (401k) and paid time off programs. Compensation and position level will be set based on experience.

*Due to the nature of Zygo Navitar's programs and products, applicants must have the legal right to work in the US and additionally must be legally authorized to access export-controlled information and source code.

Compensation

Employee Type: Hourly

Currency: USD

Salary Minimum: 45,000

Salary Maximum: 65,000

Incentive: No

Disclaimer:Where a specific pay range is noted, it is a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. The actual salary offered will be based on experience, skills, qualifications, market / business considerations, and geographic location.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.Individuals who need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process should call 1 [phone].