A Day in Your Life at MKS:
As an Optical Test Technician at MKS Instruments, you will partner with Engineering and Manufacturing teams to execute optical testing and support laser system production. In this role, you will report to the Optical Engineering Manager.
You Will Make an Impact By:
Executing optical test procedures using power meters, beam profilers, spectrometers, and interferometers
Performing laser beam quality measurements, power output testing, and wavelength characterization
Setting up optical test benches and performing precision optical alignment using autocollimators and alignment telescopes
Handling fiber optic splicing, termination, and connector installation
Operating high-power laser systems safely and performing routine maintenance on laser sources and cooling systems
Documenting optical performance data and maintaining accurate records of measurements, alignments, and system configurations
Skills You Bring:
Associate degree in Photonics Technology, Optical Engineering Technology, or related technical field
2+ years of hands-on experience in optics, laser systems, or photonics manufacturing
Proficiency with optical test equipment (power meters, beam profilers, spectrometers, interferometers)
Experience with precision optical alignment and assembly techniques
Knowledge of laser safety protocols and optical component handling
Ability to read optical drawings, specifications, and assembly procedures
Familiarity with fiber optic systems and connector technologies
Excellent manual dexterity and good visual acuity for precise optical work
Ability to work in clean room environments and follow contamination control procedures
Ability to lift up to 35 pounds and work with precision equipment
Preferred Skills:
Military optical/laser training or equivalent technical certification
Experience in defense, aerospace, or laser system environments
Experience creating optical test procedures and assembly work instructions
Troubleshooting optical production issues and training production personnel
Physical Demands and Working Conditions:
Ability to lift up to 35 pounds
Work in clean room environments
Use of precision optical tools and equipment
Visual acuity and color discrimination required for inspection
Adherence to laser safety and contamination control protocols
Compensation and Benefits:
Hourly Pay Range: $17.31 - 32.12 USD Hourly. This range is a good faith estimate of the expected salary range for this position, based on a wide range of factors including qualifications, experience and training, operational and business needs and other considerations permitted by law. At MKS, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for the role.
Bonus: This position is eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, in an amount to be determined by MKS [or as applicable].
Benefits: MKS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision), 401(k) with company match, life and disability insurance, 12 paid holidays, sick time, 15 paid vacation days, [6 weeks fully paid] parental leave, adoption assistance and tuition reimbursement [and for participation in any stock programs, signing bonus, etc.].
MKS is an equal opportunity employer, including disability, veteran status and all categories protected by law. Please review our EOE statements for additional details.
MKS will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act and the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers.
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Globally, our policy is to recruit individuals from wide and diverse backgrounds. However, certain positions require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants for these positions may need to be “U.S. persons.” “U.S. persons” are generally defined as U.S. citizens, noncitizen nationals, lawful permanent residents (or, green card holders), individuals granted asylum, and individuals admitted as refugees.
MKS Inc. and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“MKS”) is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer: diverse candidates are encouraged to apply. We win as a team and are committed to recruiting and hiring qualified applicants regardless of race, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions), religion, age, ancestry, physical or mental disability or handicap, marital status, membership in the uniformed services, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other category protected by applicable law. Hiring decisions are based on merit, qualifications and business needs. We conduct background checks and drug screens, in accordance with applicable law and company policies. MKS is generally only hiring candidates who reside in states where we are registered to do business.
MKS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process due to a disability, please contact us at: accommodationsatMKS@mksinst.com .
If applying for a specific job, please include the requisition number (ex: RXXXX), the title and location of the role