Manufacturing Technician (Weekend Shift)

LIGHTERA has one of the longest and most respectable corporate lineages in American business, tracing back to Alexander Graham Bell and the invention of the telephone over a century ago. We specialize in designing, manufacturing, and supplying the best optical fibers, fiber cable, components, and devices, with a mission to provide leading optical innovations and solutions.

About the role

We’re looking for a hands-on Manufacturing Technician to join our Glassworks team on the weekend shift, supporting business growth. This is a 32-hour/week position with two 12-hour shifts on Saturday and Sunday (12:00pm - 12:00am) and an 8-hour shift during the week (weekday flexible). The role is based in our Sturbridge, MA facility but is part of our Avon, CT division. Lightera provides training for growth and invests in your future, emphasizing safety, quality, continuous improvement, and customer commitment.

Responsibilities

• Perform manual and mechanical operations, including glass handling techniques, to support MCVD production for manufacturing high-quality, low-cost optical fiber preforms.
• Operate production-tracking software and maintain records of preform manufacturing.
• Conduct preform index profile tests to inspect manufactured products.
• Support training activities for employees in the SFPG Department to improve job functions in MCVD.
• Etch preforms in acid to achieve desired diameter.
• Inspect lathes and GDS for leaks or broken parts.
• Assist in establishing documentation for manufacturing procedures, processes, and equipment.
• Modify recipe phases for correct heat, solenoid, and mode code settings.
• Handle and transport corrosive chemicals necessary for MCVD manufacturing.
• Read GDS schematics and convey work instructions to ensure products meet customer specifications.
• Troubleshoot equipment and process issues.
• Support and perform other duties as required by management.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional education or technical training preferred.
• Five or more years of similar manufacturing experience.
• Experience with chemicals/gases desired.
• Solid math skills, including understanding of fractions, decimals, metrics, formulas, and simple conversions.
• Ability to read and convey work instructions and drawings.
• Mechanical/technical aptitude or interest.
• Experience with glass working and glass working equipment highly preferred.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment and process issues.
• Willingness to train and adapt in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries with a 20% premium for the weekend shift.
• Generous benefits programs, including health, dental, vision, and well-being.
• Company-sponsored 401(k) plan with a generous match and no vesting period.
• Tuition assistance, on-the-job training, and opportunities for growth and advancement.
• Promotion from within.
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) program and paid holidays.
• PPE, safety eyeglass, and shoe allowance.
• Consistent shifts and schedules in a clean, climate-controlled, modern facility with state-of-the-art equipment.

Schedule

• 32 hours/week: two 12-hour shifts on Saturday and Sunday (12:00pm - 12:00am) and one 8-hour weekday shift (flexible).

Employees are expected to serve as role models for safe work practices, including following health and safety policies, maintaining a clean workspace, wearing PPE, and prioritizing personal safety and wellness.

Visa sponsorship is not available. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States now and in the future.