Photonics Technician

About Hawthorn Photonics (US)

Hawthorn Photonics (US), Inc. designs and manufactures advanced electro-optic and non-linear photonics components for high-performance commercial and government applications. Our work spans research and development through production, requiring close collaboration across disciplines. As part of the Hawthorn Photonics Group, which also includes Hawthorn Photonics (UK) (Southampton, UK) and Hawthorn Photonics (Spain) (Barcelona, Spain), Hawthorn Photonics (US) benefits from shared expertise and a broad technology portfolio across the photonics industry.

Position summary

The Photonics Technician is responsible for assembling and testing photonic components using internally and externally sourced components and compiling/disseminating data appropriately throughout the process. The Photonics Technician is responsible for supporting production through fabrication and finishing of fiber optics, waveguide housings and waveguide facets as well as assembly and characterization of photonic products.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare and assemble photonic and electro-optic components and subassemblies according to drawings and procedures.
• Polish fiber optic and waveguide assemblies.
• Perform optical, electrical, and mechanical testing using established test and inspection setups and equipment.
• Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory and production equipment.
• Kitting sub-assemblies for production.
• Collect, record, and organize test data and build documentation.
• Follow laboratory, and safety protocols.
• Support prototype builds and production runs under engineering guidance.
• Assist with troubleshooting and rework of assemblies and test setups.
• Maintain tools, fixtures, and work areas in a clean and organized condition.
• Support inventory tracking, revision control, material handling, and basic MRP-related tasks as directed.
• Contribute to lean manufacturing principles and 5S activities, where needed.
• Basic machining of parts, when necessary.
• Train new operators on key processes.
• Additional responsibilities may be assigned as business needs evolve, consistent with the scope of the role.

Required qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to manipulate and assemble small, fragile components.
• Ability to follow detailed procedures, drawings, and instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation practices.
• Ability to follow precise written and verbal procedures.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Organized and dependable.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work with diverse teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in optics, photonics, or a related field.
• Experience assembling electro-optic devices or fiber-optic systems.
• Precision assembly experience.
• Familiarity with optical alignment or fiber polishing.
• Experience supporting manufacturing or production environments.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles.
• Familiarity with optical testing or characterization techniques.

Benefits

Hawthorn Photonics (US)  offers flexible schedules and competitive benefits including medical, dental, vision insurance, and retirement accounts.

To apply

Please submit applications with cover letter to Contact@advr-inc.com