Senior Optical Assembler

Gooch and Housego; Fremont (CA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Gooch and Housego in Fremont, CA is seeking an experienced Senior Optical Assembler to join our team. The role involves microscope-based assembly of optical components, wiring, soldering, and in-process QC under supervision.

You will interpret technical documents, maintain logbooks, and support cleanroom protocols while contributing to precision optical products for demanding applications. The position requires meticulous manual dexterity and comfort with optical/electro-optical assemblies.

Qualifications

• 5–8+ years of experience in a related field.
• Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
• Ability to work under a microscope for extended periods.
• Ability to interpret technical documentation and assembly instructions.
• Fluent in solder touch-up on PCBAs.
• Experience with optical assembly processes helpful but not required.

Responsibilities

• Wire bonding, crystal attach, electrical testing, and soldering components.
• Maintains work travelers and logbooks.
• Interprets assembly documentation.
• Cleans optical components using microscopes and approved solvents.
• Performs basic assembly of optical components using fixtures and hand tools.
• Assists with optical alignment setups under guidance.
• Applies adhesives (e.g., UV glue) and supports curing processes.
• Conducts visual inspection for defects and contamination.
• Follows standard work instructions and documentation procedures.
• Performs data entry for production tracking.
• Maintains cleanroom protocols and EHS compliance.
• Performs in-process QC of all work performed.
• Aligns goals with company core values: customer focus, integrity, action, unity, and precision.
• Continuously improves performance and supports problem-solving initiatives.

Skills

Manual dexterity

Microscope work

Soldering on PCBAs

Technical documentation interpretation

Opto-mechanical assemblies

Electronics basics

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Fixtures & hand tools

Job description

About this position

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.

ROLE

We are seeking an experienced Senior Optical Assembler to join our team! The Senior Optical Assembler works under close supervision of the area lead or supervisor, performing a variety of processes relating to the assembly of optical components. Such tasks may include the consistent use of a microscope.

This role requires a wide variety of electronic and optical assembly operations on standard and non-standard assemblies or sub-assemblies. The ideal candidate determines and/or follows methods and sequence of operations in performing wiring, component installation, hand soldering, crystal attach, wire bonding, and use of oscilloscopes. Makes setups and adjustments while holding tolerances to print specifications. Performs in-process quality control (QC) of all work performed.

RESPONSIBILITIES & PERFORMANCE MEASURES

• Performs specific tasks including, but not limited to: wire bonding, crystal attach, electrical testing, and soldering components
• Maintains work travelers and logbooks
• Interprets assembly documentation
• Cleans optical components using microscopes and approved solvents
• Performs basic assembly of optical components using fixtures and hand tools
• Assists with optical alignment setups under guidance
• Applies adhesives (e.g., UV glue) and supports curing processes
• Conducts visual inspection for defects and contamination
• Follows standard work instructions and documentation procedures
• Performs data entry for production tracking
• Maintains cleanroom protocols and EHS compliance
• Performs in-process QC of all work performed
• Aligns goals with company core values: customer focus, integrity, action, unity, and precision
• Continuously improves performance and supports problem-solving initiatives

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• 5-8+ years of experience in a related field
• Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
• Ability to work under a microscope for extended periods
• Ability to interpret technical documentation and assembly instructions
• Comfortable or fluent in working with opto-mechanical assemblies
• Must be fluent in solder touch up on PCBAs
• Basic understanding of electronics.
• Experience with optical assembly processes helpful but not a requirement.

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

May handle hazardous chemicals including: Acetone, Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA), Ethyl Alcohol, Methanol, and Kester Rosin Flux 1544. Must follow all safety, cleanroom, and environmental health protocols.

NOTES

This job description is not intended to be exhaustive in every respect, but rather to clearly define the fundamental purpose, responsibilities, and dimensions for the role. Therefore, this job description does not describe any individual role holder. In addition to the contents of this job description, employees are expected to undertake all other reasonable and related tasks allocated by their line manager.

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.

Please note that this position will involve having access to items and technical data that may be controlled under U.S. export laws and regulations, including but not limited to the Export Administration Regulations and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations. To comply with U.S. Export Control Laws, G&H must assess whether candidates are U.S. persons as defined under the EAR and ITAR. Certain questions asked during the application process are intended to assess this and will be used for compliance purposes only.

Salary Information

$28 - $32Hourly Wage