Position Summary: The Manufacturing Technician works in a Class 1,000 cleanroom environment to perform machine setups, execute production plans, troubleshoot equipment and product issues, and collaborate with Engineering to resolve manufacturing challenges. This role also trains manufacturing personnel and supports the Waveguide (WG) Manufacturing Department in meeting production goals while ensuring compliance with ISO 9001:2015 requirements and established quality objectives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support production schedules and achieve established manufacturing targets.

• Ensure products are manufactured in accordance with technical specifications, quality requirements, and operational standards.

• Operate production equipment and manufacturing systems as required.

• Assist with the setup, calibration, and operation of machines and robotic equipment.

•Troubleshoot and resolve production issues, equipment malfunctions, and process failures.

• Provide support to Manufacturing Engineers on process improvements, equipment validation, and production-related activities.

• Maintain a safe, organized, and compliant work environment by adhering to all company policies, procedures, and safety regulations.

• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned that are consistent with the core functions of the role.

• Comply with ISO 9001:2015 quality management system requirements and complete all required training to support applicable quality objectives and continuous improvement initiatives.

Minimal Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a Manufacturing Technician or related role; equivalent experience in machining, or a relevant technical certification or degree, will also be considered.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.

• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and resolve basic equipment, process, and production-related issues.

• Ability to read, interpret, and work from blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions.

• Skilled in the use of precision measuring instruments and hand tools, including calipers, clamps, and similar equipment.

• Basic understanding of quality control principles, inspection techniques, and manufacturing best practices.

• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy, quality, and continuous improvement.

• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. 

Competencies: To perform this job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

Written Communication – Read and interpret written information effectively, write clearly and concisely, adapt writing style for different audiences.

Verbal Communication – Give focused attention to what others are saying, take time to understand what and respond when appropriate without interrupting, speak clearly and effectively express ideas and opinions, adapt and react professionally in both positive and negative situations.

Teamwork & Collaboration – Balance team and individual responsibilities, consider others’ views objectively and with openness to changing your own, give and encourage feedback, contribute to a positive team dynamic, prioritize team success over personal interests, work effectively across departments toward company goals.

Professionalism – Interact with others in a considerate manner, follow through on commitments, react well under pressure and preserve confidentiality, control emotions, and accept responsibility, maintain focus on solutions and treat others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position.

Motivation & Initiative – Demonstrate persistence and ability to adapt to changes in daily workflow and overcome obstacles, ask for and offer help when needed, work independently when required, volunteer readily and look for ways to improve and create successful outcomes, positively contribute to overall work environment.

Respect & Integrity – Treat people with respect, work ethically and with honesty and integrity, inspire the trust of others, demonstrate appreciation and sensitivity for cultural differences, help promote inclusion and understanding of the value of diversity, embrace differences and support a harassment-free environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a cleanroom manufacturing environment.

• Associate’s degree or other two-year technical degree in Manufacturing Technology, Engineering Technology, or a related field.

• Experience assembling, testing, or handling optical components, photonic devices, or related optical systems.

• Experience working with small electronic devices, components, and assemblies in a manufacturing or production setting.

• Knowledge of CNC machining, including machine setup, operation, and basic programming.

• Familiarity with precision manufacturing processes and equipment used in high-technology production environments.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None.

Travel: Negligible.

Physical Demands:

• Frequently required to sit, communicate verbally, hear, and utilize close vision to perform detailed tasks.

• Regularly perform repetitive hand and finger movements associated with manufacturing activities, equipment operation, and data entry.

• Occasionally lift, carry, push, or move materials and equipment weighing up to 10 pounds.

• Ability to work effectively in a manufacturing and cleanroom environment for extended periods.

• Reasonable accommodation may be provided to qualified individuals to enable them to perform the essential functions of the position.