Optical Prototype Technician

Atomic Machines is ushering in a new era in micromanufacturing with its Matter Compiler (MC) technology. The MC enables new classes of micromachines to be designed and built by offering manufacturing processes and a materials library that is inaccessible to semiconductor manufacturing methods. The MC promises to unlock MEMS manufacturing both for the many device classes that never could be made by semiconductor methods but also to open up entirely new classes. Furthermore, the MC is fully digital in the way 3D printing is digital, but where 3D printing produces parts of a single material using a single process, the MC is a multi-process, multi-material technology: bits and raw materials go in and complete, functional micromachines come out. The Atomic Machines team has also created an exciting first device – one that was only made possible by the existence of the Matter Compiler – that we will be unveiling to the world soon.

Our offices are in Berkeley and Santa Clara, California.

About This Role

As an Optical Prototype Technician, you will work on a multitude of projects in a highly dynamic workplace. The ability to prioritize and manage your time, attention to detail, and understanding of complex optomechanical systems are all important in this role. We are looking for a self-starter willing to grow their skill set and actively improve our processes—previous hands-on experience in a development or prototype environment. Working closely with engineering, you will assist in the development and build of both prototype and first article systems.

What You'll Do

• Assemble, rework, troubleshoot, maintain and test optomechanical assemblies.
• Perform laser beam characterization (beam quality, power, energy measurements, etc.) 
• Perform alignment on laser systems and general optical assemblies. 
• Follow strict build guidelines that meet ISO cleanroom standards.
• Own cleanroom builds, project workflow and improve/develop build standards.
• Assist/support in prototype handoff to manufacturing.
• SMT soldering, wire harness fabrication, integration, and test.
• Collaborate with engineering.Work with engineering to produce optomechanical assembly documentation and work instructions.
• Building, troubleshooting and reworking optomechanical assemblies.

What You'll Need

• Optical experience - Understanding of general optics, best practices, and methods of handling and working with precision optical assemblies. 
• Experience using lasers or laser-based systems. 
• Previous laser safety training or similar experience.Experience aligning optical systems, first or second hand, a plus. 
• Familiarity with laser measurement/diagnostic tooling (power meters, energy meters, beam quality cameras, interferometer)
• Hands-on hardware assembly skills in mechanical and electrical systems, including small precision work and large-scale systems.
• Experience with debugging complex electromechanical systems.
• Experience operating and remote controlling benchtop lab electronics (multimeters, oscilloscopes, etc.).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• An eye for detail and organization.
• Read and interpret CAD drawings.
• Read schematics for troubleshooting and building.
• Strong time management and prioritization skills.
• Experience with office software (MS Office or Google Docs.)
• Basic metrology or inspection experience (e.g., using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, etc.).
• Eagerness to learn and take on more responsibilities over time.
• Wire harness assembly and soldering certification (IPC-610, IPC-620, or J-Standard-001).
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline or equivalent industry experience.5+ years of industry experience.

Bonus Points For

• Experience operating lab metrology instruments (microscopes, SEM, profilometers, etc.)
• Good software literacy; ability to use command line interfaces, read and understand automation device manuals, and debug software-controlled systems.