Polish​/Lap Technician

Job Title: Polish Technician (Level I, II)

Department: Polish

Reports To: Director of Engineering & Technology

Location: Bozeman, MT

Effective/Revision Date: 3/2026

The Polish Technician is responsible for performing precision polishing and surface finishing of silicon and germanium materials to meet customer and engineering specifications. This role ensures product quality, surface integrity, and compliance with ISO quality standards and ITAR regulations. The position supports production efficiency and continuous improvement in finishing processes.

• Perform assigned duties in accordance with documented procedures, work instructions, and quality system requirements
• Execute polishing operations on silicon and germanium substrates, including lapping, fine polishing, and final surface finishing
• Interpret work orders, blueprints, and specifications to meet surface finish, flatness, and dimensional requirements
• Inspect parts using metrology tools (e.g., micrometers, interferometers, profilometers) to verify compliance with specifications
• Maintain cleanliness and proper handling of materials to prevent contamination or damage
• Record production data and inspection results in accordance with ISO documentation requirements
• Identify nonconforming material and follow corrective action procedures
• Maintain equipment, perform routine maintenance, and report issues as needed
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to yield, quality, and throughput
• Follow all safety, EHS, ISO, and ITAR compliance requirements

• Perform basic polishing tasks under supervision
• Follow established work instructions and training guidelines
• Learn material handling, cleanliness standards, and basic inspection techniques
• Assist with setup and cleanup of polishing equipment
• Limited decision-making; escalates issues to higher-level technicians or supervisors

• Independently perform polishing processes with minimal supervision
• Set up and adjust polishing equipment and parameters
• Interpret technical drawings and specifications with accuracy
• Perform in-process and final inspections using standard metrology tools
• Troubleshoot minor process or equipment issues
• Train and support Level I technicians
• Contribute to process improvements and efficiency initiatives

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification or associate degree in manufacturing, materials science, or related field preferred

• Level I: 0–2 years in manufacturing or similar environment
• Level II: 2–5 years of precision polishing or related experience
• Knowledge of polishing, lapping, and surface finishing techniques
• Familiarity with silicon/germanium material properties (preferred)
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications
• Experience with metrology tools and inspection equipment
• Understanding of ISO 9001 quality systems and documentation practices
• Strong attention to detail and quality focus
• Basic computer skills for data entry and documentation
• Personal Attributes:
  Strong attention to detail and precision
• Ability to work in a cleanroom or controlled environment
• Team-oriented with strong communication skills
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new processes
• Accountability and commitment to quality and compliance

Manufacturing floor and/or cleanroom environment with exposure to polishing equipment, chemicals, and PPE requirements

• Standing for extended periods
• Lifting up to 25 lbs
• Manual dexterity for handling delicate materials
• Use of PPE including gloves, safety glasses, and cleanroom garments

• Equal Opportunity
  
  Employer:
  
  Disability/Veteran

• ITAR Requirements:
  This position may include access to information that is subject to U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, or lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or meet other approved exemptions or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.