Optical Laboratory Technician

Company: Wilcox Industries
Location: Portsmouth
Posted on: February 21, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Wilcox develops innovative, world class electro-mechanical combat systems for today’s warfighters and law enforcement officers. The Optical Laboratory Technician position is an integral part of the program team serving as the technical authority for optical product testing while working to deliver best in class product. The position works closely with Engineers, Program Managers, Production, and Quality Engineers, to ensure the team is delivering a product that our customers can trust their lives with. This position designs and performs a wide range of tests and experiments for optical and laser-based products. This position also serves in laser safety, helping keep Wilcox Industries in compliance with Laser Safety Guidelines and Practices. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Supports the Engineering, Quality, and Production teams by designing, breadboarding, and performing both standard and non-standard testing and evaluation set-ups. Tests components, modules, and systems for existing devices and devices under development. Provides timely, detailed test reports documenting experimental setups and results. Collaborates with program/product teams as well as Quality and Production to develop and document optical and laser test procedures for inspection and production lines. Shares knowledge and experience of optical and laser-based products and experience with colleagues, both Technicians and Engineers. Stays current on developments in optical and laser technology. Working with the EHS Manager, creates educational material regarding the safe practices for operating laser products and instruments and coordinates laser safety training. Provides live instruction of operating laser products and instruments to team members. Performs laser safety calculations and evaluations of laser instruments and laser products. Ensures that all laser-based devices and testing stations are properly identified with appropriate warning signage. Designs and implements laser testing stations that protect employees from accidental exposure including the identification of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to employees that work with or may be exposed laser radiation. Stays current on Laser Safety related issues and standards. Performs other duties as directed. Qualifications & Requirements Education & Experience Associate’s degree in engineering discipline or equivalent degree. 3-5 years of Engineering and manufacturing experience. Theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience with a variety of optical and laser devices. Laser safety training and/or previous LSO certification. Familiarity with ANSI 136.1 – 2022. Required Skills/Abilities: Regular on-site attendance is a necessary function of this position Strong verbal and written communication skills. Excellent time management skills. Ability to work independently while also mentoring and guiding team members. Ability to design and present training to employees. Demonstrates the ability to receive and act on constructive feedback. Fosters a collaborative environment, helping to raise the technical skill of the team. Demonstrates interpersonal tact when working with others. Designs and constructs relevant experiments and test stations. Creates readable reports and documentation. Detail-oriented with a focus on delivering high-quality work. Proficient with Microsoft Office suite. Wilcox is a U.S government defense contractor, and this position requires access to export-controlled technology. Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to access U.S. government-controlled technology prior to beginning work. Preferred Skills/Abilities: Bachelor’s degree in engineering discipline or equivalent degree. Physical Requirements: Must be able to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear; use hands and fingers to handle and touch objects, tools, or controls to work in a production environment. Vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus to work. Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Must be able to lift 25 pounds at times. Ability to perform physical tests and handle tools/equipment used for prototyping. Wilcox provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state or local laws. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. Powered by JazzHR ZCsaWuO7TE

Keywords: Wilcox Industries, Plymouth , Optical Laboratory Technician, Engineering , Portsmouth, Massachusetts