Precision Optical Technician – Mid-Level

Hardin Optical Co; Bandon (OR); On-site; USD 80,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Hardin Optical Co is seeking an experienced Optical Fabrication Technician to join our Plano and Spherical Precision Optics departments. The role involves grinding and polishing optical materials to exacting specifications using CNC and conventional equipment, with strict adherence to metrology and quality standards.

You will fabricate plano and spherical components from glass, silicon, and infrared materials, including ZnSe, CaF2, BaF2, Ge, and large silicon lenses.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of hands-on experience in precision optics manufacturing.
• Experience grinding and polishing plano and spherical optical components.
• Experience working with ZnSe, CaF2, BaF2, Ge, and large silicon lenses.
• Proficiency with CNC and conventional optical fabrication equipment and precision metrology tools.
• Strong attention to detail, consistent workmanship, and careful handling practices.
• Reliable attendance and the ability to support production schedules.
• Commitment to teamwork, continued learning and a long-term career in optical fabrication.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC and conventional optical grinding and polishing equipment.
• Fabricate plano and spherical optical components from glass, silicon, and infrared materials.
• Grind and polish large silicon lenses.
• Work with ZnSe, CaF2, BaF2, Ge, and large silicon lenses.
• Use precision metrology equipment to verify dimensions and surface quality.
• Read and interpret technical drawings and manufacturing requirements.
• Monitor fabrication processes and troubleshoot issues.
• Handle fragile optical components carefully during fabrication and inspection.
• Follow safety, material-handling and quality procedures.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Reliability

Tools

CNC equipment

Conventional equipment

Precision metrology tools

Job description

Build a long-term career in precision optics manufacturing. Hardin Optical is seeking an experienced Optical Fabrication Technician to join our Plano and Spherical Precision Optics departments - currently our fastest-growing departments, with opportunities for continued learning and career advancement.

In this role, you will grind and polish optical materials into flat and spherical components using CNC and conventional equipment. You will operate precision metrology tools and follow detailed technical specifications to ensure each component meets exacting quality standards.

What You'll Do

• Set up and operate CNC and conventional optical grinding and polishing equipment.
• Fabricate plano and spherical optical components from glass, silicon, and infrared optical materials.
• Grind and polish large silicon lenses.
• Work with zinc selenide (ZnSe), calcium fluoride (CaF₂), barium fluoride (BaF₂), and germanium (Ge).
• Use precision metrology equipment to verify dimensions, surface quality, and conformance to specifications.
• Read and interpret technical drawings, work instructions, and manufacturing requirements.
• Monitor fabrication processes, make adjustments, and help troubleshoot production issues.
• Handle fragile optical components carefully throughout fabrication and inspection.
• Follow established safety, material-handling, and quality procedures.

What You Bring

• 5-7 years of hands-on experience in precision optics manufacturing.
• Experience grinding and polishing plano and spherical optical components.
• Experience working with ZnSe, CaF₂, BaF₂, Ge, and large silicon lenses.
• Proficiency with CNC and conventional optical fabrication equipment and precision metrology tools.
• Strong attention to detail, consistent workmanship, and careful handling practices.
• Reliable attendance and the ability to support production schedules.
• A commitment to teamwork, continued learning, and a long-term career in optical fabrication.

Grow With Hardin Optical

We are looking for someone who wants to contribute their experience while continuing to build their skills. As our Plano and Spherical departments expand, this role offers opportunities to take on more complex work and grow within the company.