Engineering Technician (Electrical) - Huntsville, AL

IPG Photonics is the world's leading developer and manufacturer of high-performance fiber lasers and amplifiers for diverse applications in numerous markets. Founded in 1990, IPG pioneered the development and commercialization of optical fiber-based lasers, a critical technology in the high-energy laser (HEL) system program.

Role Overview: The Engineering Technician reports to the Chief Electrical Engineer and provides hands-on technical support for electrical testing, assembly, and troubleshooting of high energy laser systems. This role executes test procedures, builds prototypes, maintains laboratory equipment, and supports engineering activities through practical technical skills.

Responsibilities:

• Testing & Laboratory Support

• Execute electrical test procedures using oscilloscopes, multimeters, power supplies, and spectrum analyzers
• Perform component-level and board-level testing under engineering supervision
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory instruments and test equipment
• Document test results and observations in laboratory databases
• Set up test fixtures and automated test equipment

• Assembly & Prototyping

• Assemble electrical components, PCBs, and cable harnesses per engineering drawings
• Build prototype systems and test fixtures for engineering evaluation
• Perform soldering, wire routing, and mechanical assembly tasks
• Follow ESD procedures and safety protocols in laboratory environments
• Maintain organized component inventory and test materials

• Troubleshooting & Repair

• Diagnose electrical failures in circuits, components, and assemblies
• Replace defective components and perform repairs under engineering guidance
• Support root cause analysis by collecting data and performing isolation tests
• Document failure modes and repair actions for engineering review
• Maintain and repair laboratory instruments

• Documentation & Manufacturing Support

• Maintain accurate records of test data, measurements, and procedures
• Support creation of technical reports and work instructions
• Assist manufacturing with process development and production validation testing
• Help troubleshoot production issues and train production personnel
• Support supplier audits and component qualification activities

Education & Experience:

• Associate degree in Electronics Technology or Electrical Engineering Technology
• 2-5 years hands-on experience in electronics testing, assembly, or manufacturing
• Military electronics training or equivalent technical certification acceptable
• Defense, aerospace, or high-reliability electronics experience preferred

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency with electrical test equipment (oscilloscopes, DMMs, power supplies, function generators)
• Ability to read electrical schematics, assembly drawings, and technical specifications
• Experience with soldering, cable assembly, and mechanical assembly
• Knowledge of ESD procedures and laboratory safety protocols
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data entry applications

Physical Requirements:

• Manual dexterity for precise assembly and testing work
• Color vision and visual acuity for component identification
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds and work in various positions

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with high-power electronics or laser systems
• Knowledge of military or aerospace quality standards
• IPC certification for soldering and cable assembly
• Familiarity with automated test equipment and LabVIEW
• Basic programming skills (Python, MATLAB, or similar)

Personal Attributes:

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and work instructions
• Good communication skills for cross-functional collaboration
• Self-motivated with ability to work independently on routine tasks
• Flexibility to support multiple projects and changing priorities
• Commitment to safety and continuous learning

Education & Experience:

• Associate degree in Electronics Technology or Electrical Engineering Technology
• 2-5 years hands-on experience in electronics testing, assembly, or manufacturing
• Military electronics training or equivalent technical certification acceptable
• Defense, aerospace, or high-reliability electronics experience preferred

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency with electrical test equipment (oscilloscopes, DMMs, power supplies, function generators)
• Ability to read electrical schematics, assembly drawings, and technical specifications
• Experience with soldering, cable assembly, and mechanical assembly
• Knowledge of ESD procedures and laboratory safety protocols
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data entry applications

Physical Requirements:

• Manual dexterity for precise assembly and testing work
• Color vision and visual acuity for component identification
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds and work in various positions

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with high-power electronics or laser systems
• Knowledge of military or aerospace quality standards
• IPC certification for soldering and cable assembly
• Familiarity with automated test equipment and LabVIEW
• Basic programming skills (Python, MATLAB, or similar)

Personal Attributes:

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and work instructions
• Good communication skills for cross-functional collaboration
• Self-motivated with ability to work independently on routine tasks
• Flexibility to support multiple projects and changing priorities
• Commitment to safety and continuous learning

Reports To: Chief Electrical Engineer, High Energy Laser Systems

Work Environment: Laboratory and manufacturing settings with occasional exposure to laser radiation (proper safety training provided)

Security Clearance: Ability to obtain security clearance may be required

Travel: Minimal (less than 5%)