Senior Optical Technician

About the role

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. The company has a proven track record of being first in the industry with application‑specific fibers, optical connectors, ribbon cables, erbium‑doped fibers, Raman fiber lasers, fiber gratings and more. Its mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and supplying the best optical fibers, fiber cable and components and devices for customers, with exceptional service that creates value for shareholders, customers and employees. LIGHTERA seeks a Senior Optical Technician to support its Production Realization Center in Somerset, NJ.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands‑on fabrication and processing of specialty fiber optic devices, following established procedures, work instructions, and product specifications.
• Prepare optical fiber and perform processes such as grating fabrication, recoating, annealing, and related fiber processing activities.
• Perform optical measurements and testing using laboratory equipment such as optical spectrum analyzers, lasers, and other measurement systems.
• Collect, record, and analyze process and test data to support production and R&D activities.
• Inspect products and materials to ensure they meet established quality and performance requirements.
• Identify equipment, material, or process issues and communicate problems promptly to minimize downtime and maintain product quality.
• Work closely with engineers, technicians, and other team members to troubleshoot issues and support process improvements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment and follow applicable cleanroom, safety, quality, and documentation requirements.
• Maintain equipment, materials, and workstations in accordance with established procedures.
• Support multiple workstations and production activities as business needs require.
• Learn and apply new laboratory methods, equipment, and specialized fiber optic processes.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Serve as a role model for safe work practices: follow health and safety policies, maintain a clean work area, wear and properly store PPE, and prioritize personal safety and wellness.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Optics, Photonics, Physics, Engineering, Electronics, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant laboratory, manufacturing, optics/photonics, or fiber optics experience preferred.
• Basic knowledge of optics, physics, or fiber optics.

Skills

• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow technical procedures and specifications.
• Ability to learn new equipment and processes, troubleshoot issues, and work effectively independently and on a team.
• Experience with fiber optics, optical laboratory equipment, lasers, optical spectrum analyzers, or cleanroom environments is a plus.

Benefits

• Generous benefits programs including medical, dental, tuition reimbursement, and a matching 401(k) plan.
• Dynamic work environment with opportunity to realize ideas, experience innovation, and discover new solutions for the future.

Pay

The anticipated hourly compensation range for this position is $30–$40 per hour, depending on qualifications and relevant experience.