Optical Bench Alignment Technician

Optical Bench Alignment Technician

This role will be based onsite at our Louisville, Colorado office. Travel:
None Job

The Optical Alignment Technician plays a critical role in the production of Skyloom optical communication terminals. This position is responsible for the precision alignment of optical components to enable high-performance data links under stringent performance requirements.

The role requires excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to follow and improve detailed work instructions. The technician will perform alignment, inspection, and quality control activities, while working closely with mechanical and optical engineering teams to troubleshoot issues and continuously improve production processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform precision optical alignment and integration of components and assemblies
• Follow and execute detailed work instructions and alignment procedures
• Support the development and improvement of assembly and alignment processes
• Perform inspection, measurement, and quality control of optical assemblies
• Collaborate with engineering teams to troubleshoot alignment and performance issues
• Maintain accurate documentation for traceability and production tracking
• Handle sensitive optical hardware in accordance with cleanroom and contamination control standards
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant work environment

Technical Skills

• Proven experience in optical assembly or optical instrument manufacturing, preferably in aerospace, photonics, medical devices, or precision equipment
• Strong experience with precision alignment tools such as autocollimators, interferometers, lasers, microscopes, and optical power meters
• Excellent manual dexterity and precision handling of delicate optical components
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, exploded diagrams, and optical assembly procedures
• Familiarity with cleanroom operations, ESD control, and contamination-sensitive environments
• Understanding of optomechanical interfaces, including lens mounts, kinematic mounts, and alignment strategies
• Experience with optical cleaning procedures and handling techniques
• Familiarity with measurement and inspection tools (micrometers, calipers, torque tools)

Core Qualifications

• Experience in an assembly, integration, or optical alignment environment
• Ability to follow complex technical procedures with high accuracy
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Experience with quality control and compliance processes
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office, data entry systems, basic Linux familiarity preferred)
• Knowledge of ESD and laser safety procedures
• Ability to work effectively in cleanroom environments
• Strong written communication skills

Soft Skills

• Extremely detail-oriented with a rigorous and disciplined mindset
• Strong documentation and traceability discipline
• Ability to work independently and within multidisciplinary teams
• High reliability, accountability, and ownership
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Mission-driven and team-oriented mindset

Preferred Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience in aerospace, optical communications, photonics, or precision optics manufacturing
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Optics, Photonics, Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Experience with optical alignment techniques, bench-top setups, and complex optical systems
• Experience with optical bonding and adhesives
• Experience in production environments and process improvement
• Familiarity with advanced metrology tools such as interferometers, shearing interferometers, and infrared sensors

Compensation

The approximate base salary range for this position is $68,456 - $82,661. The total compensation package includes base salary, bonus, equity, and a range of benefits.

Benefits will be provided by Skyloom, Inc., an IonQ Company, and will differ from the benefits listed on the IonQ website. Compensation will vary based on individual factors such as education, qualifications, and experience of the final candidate(s), specific office location, and calibration against relevant market data and internal team equity. Posted base salary figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available.

Our benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO and paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, and a home technology stipend. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided when a candidate receives an offer of employment.