Engineering Technician

Engineering Technician

Location: Chantilly, Virginia

Job Type: Full-Time | Onsite

Work Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off)

100% onsite in Chantilly, VA (Dulles area facilities) – precision lab / manufacturing / defense environment. Hands‑on technical role supporting photonics and system integration. Requires working with sensitive equipment and high‑quality standards.

The Engineering Technician C supports fabrication, assembly, integration, and testing of photonic and precision components within a defense environment. This role requires strong hands‑on technical skills, the ability to interpret engineering drawings, and experience working with machining or lab equipment. Candidates from electronics, mechanical, optical, or manufacturing backgrounds are encouraged, with on‑the‑job training provided for photonics‑specific skills.

Perform precision assembly, fabrication, and inspection of components.

• Optical fiber splicing and recoating
• Photonic circuit assembly
• Mechanical builds and soldering

Integrate optical and electronic equipment (power meters, laser sources, etc.). Perform system testing and validation. Assist with calibration procedures and equipment setup.

Interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and technical instructions. Operate machining tools (lathes, mills, CNC). Maintain lab equipment (wire bonding, photomasking, epoxy systems).

Ensure preventative maintenance and calibration compliance. Maintain clean, organized, and controlled work spaces. Follow strict quality, safety, and documentation standards.

Work closely with engineering and production teams. Communicate progress, issues, and quality metrics to leadership.

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 6+ years of relevant experience OR Associate's Degree + 2+ years of experience
• Active TS/SCI with CI Poly Clearance (Mandatory)
• Experience with engineering drawings & technical documentation
• Experience in lab/manufacturing/assembly environments
• Experience with machining tools (lathe, mill, CNC) or similar

• Experience with photonics or optical systems
• Background in electronics, mechanical systems, or precision assembly
• Experience in DoD lab/workshop environments
• Familiarity with fiber optics, optical alignment, or laser systems

• Precision Assembly & Fabrication
• Engineering Drawings Interpretation
• Lab & Manufacturing Operations
• Optical / Photonics Systems (preferred)
• Machining & Tooling (CNC, lathe, mill)
• Testing & Calibration
• Quality Control & Compliance
• Technical Troubleshooting