Sr Optics Specialist, Assembly, Test- Applied Optics

Applied Optics, Inc.; Pleasant Hill (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Monthly bonus program

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Life insurance

Vision insurance

401k matching

Paid time off (PTO)

Relocation assistance

Job summary

A leading optics company in Pleasant Hill, CA, is seeking an experienced optical assembly technician with over 5 years in optical manufacturing. Responsibilities include precise assembly and inspection of components, troubleshooting, and maintaining documentation. Candidates must have a high school diploma, with an associate's degree preferred. The role offers a competitive salary between $80k–$120k with bonuses, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for growth.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in optical or photonics related manufacturing.
• Must be able to classify scratch and dig surface imperfections.
• Experience with optical components and assemblies required.

Responsibilities

• Assemble optical and optomechanical components precisely.
• Troubleshoot and repair complex assemblies.
• Maintain records of production and test data.

Skills

Manual dexterity

Proficiency with precision hand tools

Basic understanding of optical principles

Strong computer skills

Interferometry proficiency

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate's degree in Optics, Photonics, or Electronics

Tools

Optical metrology equipment

Interferometers

Job description

Pleasant Hill, United States | Posted on 03/19/2026

• Work Experience Experience: A minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in an optical or photonics related manufacturing or lab environment with hands‑on experience with optical, photonic, fiber optic, or related components, assemblies and systems.
• City Pleasant Hill
• State/Province California
• Country United States

Job Description

N.Calif,80-120k package including monthly bonuses

Duties

• Perform precise assembly of optical and opto‑mechanical components using fixtures, hand tools, and test equipment.
• Align and install various optical elements, such as lenses, mirrors, and windows, while operating and maintaining a variety of optical test equipment, including interferometers, profilers, and centration testing.
• Execute detailed test procedures to verify the performance and functionality of assembled products.
• Troubleshoot and repair complex opto‑mechanical assemblies that fail during testing.
• Thoroughly clean and inspect optical components under microscope for defects or contamination.
• Read and interpret detailed work instructions, engineering blueprints, and schematic diagrams.
• Maintain accurate records of all production, test data, and documentation.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized work area, which may include a cleanroom environment.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to provide feedback on manufacturability and assist with the development of new processes.

Education

• High school diploma or GED required. An Associate's degree or certificate in a related technical field (e.g., Optics, Photonics, or Electronics) is preferred.

Experience

• A minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in an optical or photonics related manufacturing or lab environment with hands‑on experience with optical, photonic, fiber optic, or related components, assemblies and systems.

Technical Skills

• Excellent manual dexterity and hand‑eye coordination for working with small, delicate optical and optomechanical components.
• Proficiency with precision hand tools and optical metrology equipment.
• Basic understanding of optical principles, physics, mechanics, and electronics.
• Strong computer skills for operating test equipment and documentation.
• Two of the technical competencies that are an absolute must are;
• Proficiency in inspecting optical components per MIL-PRF-13830 and/or ISO 10110-7
• Candidates must be extremely comfortable with classifying scratch and dig surface imperfections.
• Proficiency in interferometry
• Candidates must be able to set up (select transmission sphere), measure surface form error and transmitted wavefront, and interpret interferograms.

Soft Skills

• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong problem‑solving and troubleshooting abilities.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively in a team environment.

Physical Requirements

• Visual acuity sufficient for inspecting intricate parts under a microscope.
• Capable of performing fine manipulation with hands and fingers.
• Ability to sit, stand, kneel, and bend for extended periods.

Mustbe able to lift and move up to 35 lbs.

Offers attractive benefits package including a monthly bonus program, health, dental, life, vision insurance, 401k matching, PTO (paid time off), Relocation Assistance.