Assembly Team Lead - Optical Components

Overview

The Assembly Team Lead role works closely with the Assembly Supervisor to ensure production schedules, quality standards, and safety requirements are achieved while promoting employee development, cross-training, and continuous improvement. The Team Lead provides direction and support to assemblers and technicians, addressing production issues, coordinating activities, and maintaining an efficient workflow throughout the shift.

Responsibilities

Production

• Lead daily assembly operations; coordinate work assignments and monitor progress against schedule
• Train, mentor, and cross-train assemblers on techniques, equipment, and SOPs
• Perform first-piece and in-process quality inspections
• Troubleshoot assembly issues with Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, and Quality
• Run start-up meetings; communicate priorities, quality, and safety updates
• Maintain accurate production/labor records in ERP/MRP; ensure material availability and traceability
• Uphold 5S and safety standards; enforce proper PPE use
• Act as Assembly Supervisor when delegated

Safety

• Promote a safe work environment by ensuring compliance with all company safety policies.
• Ensure proper use of PPE and handling of sensitive optical components.
• Report safety concerns immediately and participate in corrective actions.

Qualifications

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Strong understanding of precision mechanical and optical assembly techniques.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, assembly instructions, and bills of materials.
• Experience using microscopes, precision measuring equipment, torque tools, and optical alignment equipment.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to identify process improvements and implement corrective actions.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office and ERP/MRP systems (SAP preferred).
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively across Production, Engineering, Planning, and Quality departments.

Education/Experience:

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate degree or technical education preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of manufacturing or precision assembly experience, with at least 2 years in optical component assembly preferred.
• Previous experience leading or mentoring employees in a manufacturing environment preferred.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to sit or stand for long periods; ability to travel; adequate manual dexterity to perform essential functions; ability to use some physical efforts in the handling of heavy materials and machinery; ability to lift ≥50 lbs.; ability to work in manufacturing environment.

Other Requirements:

U.S. Citizenship or permanent residence required

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Think you meet some of the requirements but not all? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs for which they do not meet every qualification. If you see a role that interests you, we encourage you to apply, regardless of whether or not your experience is completely aligned with the job description. Edmund Optics is committed to becoming the most diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace within the Optics and Photonics Industry and beyond. You may be a great candidate for this role or others within Edmund Optics.

Compensation Range Transparency:

At Edmund Optics, we are committed to transparency and equity in our hiring practices. The posted salary range for this role reflects the expected base pay. The actual offer will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to relevant skills, education, work experience, business needs, and geographic location.

Salary Range: $26.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match up to 3%
• Daycare and Gym Reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave and New Mother Benefits
• Training and Development Opportunities

Availability of these benefits may depend on the country and employment type.