Technician

Luna Innovations Incorporated is a global leader in the fiber optics industry. We employ a diverse team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals developing and manufacturing a new generation of technologies and products. We are seeking Technicians in our Santa Clara, CA office, where we develop and manufacture high-performance laser sources and subsystems used in energy, security, infrastructure, metrology, and other demanding applications.

A Technician plays a key role in assembling and testing our lasers and modules, ensuring every unit meets customer specifications and our standards for quality and reliability. Collaborating closely with engineers, this role supports yield improvement and product development through hands-on testing and troubleshooting. Technicians follow detailed assembly processes, maintain accurate documentation, and ensure product quality in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to innovative solutions in the optical industry while working in a collaborative, team-oriented setting.

Schedule & Pay:

• 2 openings, Monday through Friday
• Morning shift: 4:30 AM to 1:00 PM
• Afternoon shift: 1:00 PM to 9:30 PM
• Pay: $30 to $44 per hour, depending on experience

* Most training takes place on your assigned shift. Some training with engineers or technicians on other shifts may require availability from approximately 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Perform epoxy-based assembly of lasers and modules, following detailed work instructions and quality standards.
• Use machine and hand tools to perform optical alignment and test operations.
• Perform functional testing of lasers and modules using lab equipment to ensure product performance and reliability.
• Inspect components and sub-assemblies according to quality documentation.
• Assist in identifying and troubleshooting basic manufacturing issues, providing timely resolutions.
• Support engineers with yield improvement projects, experiments, and product evaluations.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance and calibration of equipment according to established procedures.
• Support material management, including kitting, as needed.
• Accurately document test results and assembly data using digital tools like Word and Excel.
• Suggest and implement improvements to assembly and alignment methods that reduce cost and cycle time.
• Maintain a safe, organized workspace and follow all safety regulations and company policies.
• Any other duties as necessary or requested by the supervisor.

Desired Experience:

• Experience using lab equipment such as an Optical Spectrum Analyzer (OSA), power meters, and wavelength meters is a plus
• LabVIEW experience is a plus
• Associates Degree (AA) or certification in electronics from a two-year college or technical school is a plus
• Microsoft Suite proficiency is a plus

* Candidates that meet and/or exceed the desired experience will be considered for Technician II or Senior Technician roles.

Work Experience Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum 1 year of experience in mechanical assembly of opto-electronic products
• Minimum 1 year of opto-electronic testing experience
• Ability to perform precision work under a high-powered microscope
• Ability to work extended hours and occasional weekends to meet production goals

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit for extended periods, with occasional standing and walking, during assembly and test tasks.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for fine motor tasks such as assembling small components, operating tools, and keyboarding.
• Ability to occasionally reach with hands and arms and lift or carry objects weighing up to 10 lbs.
• Visual acuity for detailed work, including inspecting optical components and identifying defects.
• Ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and gloves, as required.
• Manual dexterity to handle delicate optical components and perform precision work.
• Ability to work in a cleanroom or controlled environment, adhering to strict cleanliness and contamination control protocols.
• Good hand-eye coordination and steady hands for tasks that require precision and accuracy.

Work Environment:

• Indoor laboratory and production environment with controlled temperature and humidity levels.
• Exposure to bright lighting, cleanroom conditions, and specialized lab equipment.
• Frequent use of microscopes, precision instruments, and optical alignment tools.
• May involve occasional exposure to low-level noise from machinery and testing equipment.

* This position requires English proficiency to perform essential job duties, including reading technical documents, following safety instructions, and communicating with team members.

Luna is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer – Luna provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, gender identity, results of genetic testing, or service in the military or any other characteristic. Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training. Luna expressly prohibits any form of unlawful employee harassment or discrimination based on any of the characteristics mentioned above.