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Optical Instrument Assembler Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... instrument builds. * The assembler is expected to work carefully with sensitive components, including cable harnesses, small, soldered parts, fibers, optical components, and mechanically aligned ...

... instrument builds. * Perform electronic assembly, including crimping, soldering, and cable ... Perform optical alignment and calibration. * Prepare instruments or accessories for technical ...

Optical Scientist

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$85 - $110/hr

... instrument), and the Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO) flagship. As part of this work, there will ... Assemble and manipulate optical layouts on a testbed (grasp lightly, and use fine manipulation ...

Assembler II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

... instrument builds. * Perform electronic assembly tasks such as crimping, soldering, and cable installation. * Execute mechanical assembly using basic hand tools. * Perform optical alignment and ...

The Instrument Systems, Microdevices, and Sensors Section (365) is responsible for developing and ... The Optical & Quantum System Engineering Group (365D) provides lifecycle leadership in the ...

Responsibilities The Instrument Systems, Microdevices, and Sensors Section (365) is responsible for ... The Optical & Quantum System Engineering Group (365D) provides lifecycle leadership in the ...

The Instrument Systems, Microdevices, and Sensors Section (365) is responsible for developing and ... The Optical & Quantum System Engineering Group (365D) provides lifecycle leadership in the ...

You have instrument and consumables design experience and a track record of translating high-level ... Build, assemble, and test prototype hardware--Hands-on fabrication and bring-up across mechanical ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

You have instrument and consumables design experience and a track record of translating high-level ... Build, assemble, and test prototype hardware-Hands-on fabrication and bring-up across mechanical ...

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Optical Instrument Assembler information

What is an optical instrument assembler?

Optical Instrument Assemblers are skilled technicians who assemble, adjust, and test devices that use lenses, mirrors, and other optical components, such as microscopes, telescopes, cameras, and lasers. They work with small, delicate parts and use specialized tools to ensure each component fits together precisely. These professionals often follow blueprints or technical diagrams and may also be responsible for inspecting finished products for quality and accuracy. Their work is crucial in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and research, where high-performance optical instruments are essential.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an optical instrument assembler?

To thrive as an Optical Instrument Assembler, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of optics and electronics, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with precision assembly tools, microscopes, and quality control systems is commonly required. Excellent problem-solving skills, patience, and the ability to work collaboratively help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities are critical to ensuring the precise assembly and reliable performance of complex optical instruments.

What challenges do optical instrument assemblers face, and how can they be addressed?

Optical Instrument Assemblers often encounter challenges such as handling delicate components, maintaining precision during assembly, and troubleshooting alignment issues. To address these, attention to detail and steady hand coordination are essential, along with following strict cleanroom protocols to prevent contamination. Collaborating closely with engineering and quality assurance teams can help quickly resolve technical problems, and ongoing training ensures assemblers stay updated on best practices and new technologies.

What is the difference between Optical Instrument Assembler vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical Instrument AssemblerOptical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical trainingHigh school diploma, technical certification
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, assembly linesLaboratories, repair shops
Industry UsageOptical equipment manufacturingOptical device maintenance and repair
Job FocusAssembling optical componentsTesting, troubleshooting, repairing optical systems

Optical Instrument Assemblers primarily focus on assembling optical devices in manufacturing settings, while Optical Technicians are more involved in testing, maintaining, and repairing optical systems. Both roles require technical skills and certifications but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Instrument Assembler jobs in California?

For Optical Instrument Assembler jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Instrument Assembler jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Instrument Assembler jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Optical Instrument Assembler job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution.

Engineering Tech V - Optical Mechanical - Integrated Optics Modules (NWS 00899)

North Wind Group

Livermore, CA • On-site

$39.51 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Location: Livermore, CA
Title: Engineering Technician V - Optical Mechanical Technician - Integrated Optics Modules (NWS 00899)
North Wind Services (NWS) is a high performing, low risk company with a successful history of contributing to their client's missions. NWS executes and manages a wide range of technical services such as environmental investigation and restoration, construction, demolition, radioactive and hazardous waste management, public communication/involvement, information management, health and safety, industrial hygiene, and emergency response/HAZMAT services.
North Wind Services is actively seeking individuals who can contribute to national security within the science, technology, and engineering fields as part of our supplemental labor team at vital federal research and development installations supporting the Department of Energy. Qualified applicants must be a US citizen, at least 18 years of age, and able to meet pre-employment requirements including any required physicals, drug screen, and/or background investigation to satisfy clearance requirements from the Department of Energy.
Successful candidates will be employees of NWS supporting the missions of their federal client, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) in Livermore, CA. Pay, benefits, Human Resources, and employment management functions are all provided by NWS. As an NWS employee working at LLNL, within the client's environment, you will complete day-to-day tasks, with direction from technical personnel directly employed by LLNL.
These positions are supporting the National Ignition Facility (NIF) which is the world's largest and most energetic laser facility ever built. NIF is also the most precise and reproducible laser as well as the largest optical instrument. The giant laser has nearly 40,000 optics, which precisely guide, reflect, amplify, and focus 192 laser beams onto a fusion target about the size of a pencil eraser.
The NIF Directorate has an opening for an Engineering Technician V Optical/Mechanical Technician to support mechanical assemblies. The successful candidate must be able to work in a low-level radiologically contaminated, clean room environment and handle large, high-value optics and optical assemblies. The successful candidate will perform their duties under close supervision and report to a NIF Manager.
Due to the vast and varying types of experiments, NIF is a 24/7 operational facility. This position may require Engineering Technician V to have the flexibility to work overtime, shift and or weekends to accomplish goals. This position may also require working alternate schedules such as 4/10's or 12-hour shifts. The successful candidate will be required to pass various on-site training modules to pursue work assignments.
Essential Duties
- Assemble, disassemble, and test mechanical subassemblies, tooling, and fixtures using hand tools, power tools, precision measurement devices (calipers, micrometers, etc.).
-Assist with equipment qualification, validation, and calibration activities as needed.
-Handling of large (to 18" square, and up to 50 lbs.) valuable laser optics for the NIF using mechanical lift or 2-person lifting techniques.
- Inspecting large optics.
- Mounting optics into mechanical hardware frames.
- Working in a class 100 cleanroom.
- Using web-based data management systems to track work, record metrology data, and report problems.
- Follow and adhere to written, operational, and safety procedures while completing job assignments.
- This position may require the ability to work a second shift work schedule and rotating day. Will support a 24/7 operation.
- Perform all assignments in accordance with ESH&Q, Security, and business practice requirements and policies.
- Work requirements may involve climbing ladders and stairs, lifting to 50 pounds, standing, or walking for significant periods of time.
- Shipping and receiving optics and other materials.
Essential Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
- A.S., or equivalent experience, in Optical or Mechanical technologies.
- Experience with production technologies, including evaluating and testing processes.
- Ability to perform work deliberately, carefully, and safely.
- Demonstrated ability to work within deadlines to perform multiple tasks and communicate effectively with managers and customers.
- Ability to follow detailed procedures and accurately record process parameters.
- Experience with database, data manipulation skills, personal computers, and associated software.
- Experience working in a multi-disciplinary team environment.
- Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to handle multiple tasks and changing priorities.
- Demonstrated interpersonal skills necessary to interact with a diverse group of personalities and disciplines.
Special Requirements
Pre-Placement Medical Exam: A job-related pre-placement medical examination may be required.
Pre-employment drug test: External applicants selected for this position will be required to pass a post offer, pre-employment drug test.
Anticipated Government Clearance Level: Q (position will be cleared to this level). Applicants who are selected will be subject to a federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matters. In addition, all L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing. Q-level clearance requires U.S. citizenship. If you hold multiple citizenships (U.S. and another country), you may be required to renounce your non-U.S. citizenship before a DOE L or Q clearance will be processed/granted.
North Wind offers a competitive pay and benefits package to include health, life, and disability insurance benefits, 401(k) with company match, generous paid leave, and tuition reimbursement for eligible employees. As a company, we are committed to employee wellness, professional development, and work-life balance. We value safety, reliability, and commitment to our people. For more information about benefits or hiring philosophy, visit the North Wind Career Opportunities Page.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The nature of those accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis. If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact our Helpline +1.208.528.8718 or use the Request for Reasonable Accommodation form to get assistance.
North Wind is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, religion, or other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees, and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information NW collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed here: https://northwindgrp.com/wp-com.

North Wind Group logo

About North Wind Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

North Wind Group is a renowned engineering, construction, environmental, and technical services firm based in Idaho Falls, ID, United States. This U.S owned firm, with its robust portfolio, offers a wide range of services including, but not limited to, infrastructure, waste management, remediation, environmental, and construction services. North Wind Group was established in 1997 and since then, it has expanded its operations across the United States, becoming a national provider of high-quality, cost-effective technical and engineering solutions. The company's core values express its commitment to safety, integrity, customer service, innovation, and teamwork, which are all critical to its mission of delivering innovative and sustainable solutions aimed to protect the environment and improve the lives of communities.

Industry

Government relations and lobbying services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Idaho Falls, ID, US

Year founded

1997

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