Coating Technician - B or C Shift

About this position

Title:

Coating Technician I B/C Shift

Department:
Coating

Reports to:

Coating Manager

RPO is a global leader in precision optics, optical components, and optical assemblies. We specialize in a full spectrum of products & services including Design and Engineering, Systems Integration, Lens Assembly, Visible and Infrared Components, Glass and Plastic Molded Aspheres, and Thin Film Coating. As one of the fastest growing companies in Rochester, RPO offers exciting career paths and work on market‑leading programs.

Below is one of many career opportunities to join the RPO team.

The Coating Technician plays a vital role in the production of high‑quality precision optics by applying thin‑film coatings to a multitude of different lenses and components. Using specialized vacuum deposition equipment, the technician ensures coatings meet strict performance and durability standards essential for optical clarity and functionality. This position requires careful attention to detail, consistency in process execution and a strong commitment to quality in our manufacturing environment.

In addition to coating product, the technician supports coating operations to include but may not be limited to equipment maintenance and preventive maintenance, component testing, and optical inspection.

• Prepare precision optical components for coating by cleaning, masking and inspecting for defects.
• Operate and maintain vacuum deposition systems (e.g. e‑beam, sputtering, thermal evaporation).
• Monitor coating processes and parameters to ensure optimal film performance and uniformity.
• Inspect coated optics using spectrophotometers, interferometers and microscopes.
• Record process data, quality control metrics and maintenance logs with a strong attention to detail.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues with equipment or coating quality.
• Collaborate with engineers and management staff to refine coating processes.
• Maintain a clean, organized and safe work environment in accordance with ISO and cleanroom standards.
• Measure optical spectra, prepare samples for environmental testing, and provide required data to QA personnel.
• Keep accurate and complete coating records.
• Daily coater cleanup and perform/assist during routine large‑scale cleanup.
• Maintain equipment, tooling, adaptors and work area in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices, ISO and EHS protocols.
• Train Coating associates on job‑specific tasks as well as mentoring in the area of coating, testing and spectral measurements.
• Work closely with the Coating Manager to understand current capabilities and work toward strategic capability improvements.
• Work closely with other functional areas at RPO to improve the flow and quality of components to Coating.

• High School Diploma/GED Required;
  Associate degree or technical training in optics, materials science, or a related field is beneficial.
• 1–3 years of hands‑on experience in optical thin‑film coating or vacuum deposition processes within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience operating coating equipment, including loading and unloading parts, running coating cycles, and monitoring process parameters.
• Familiarity with vacuum systems, deposition processes, and basic equipment troubleshooting.
• Ability to follow detailed work instructions, process recipes, and document production or inspection results accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work within defined process controls to maintain coating quality and yield.
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members, engineering, and supervision regarding process or equipment issues.

• Results‑Oriented: Motivated, hard‑working and ready to level‑up.
• Curious: You never stop learning and have an insatiable desire to gain new skills and knowledge.
• Process Oriented: Well organized, demonstrating attention to detail.
• Analytical: Possess a “If there’s a problem, I’ll find a solution” attitude.
• Accountable: Demanding the highest quality from yourself and team members.
• Detail‑Oriented: Have excellent time management and organizational skills.
• A Team Player: Reliable, collaborative, flexible with a positive ‘get…