Engineering Technician

IPG Defense, a stand-alone business of IPG Photonics, was incorporated in 2026 to provide direct support for defense products. Headquartered in Huntsville, AL, IPG Defense is bringing commercial scale to laser defense systems, leveraging IPG Photonics' 36 years of experience in fiber laser technology. Our mission: develop and deliver the most advanced, next-generation laser defense solutions for military and civilian use - systems that accurately and reliably detect, track, target, and neutralize threats.

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 our high-energy laser (HEL) systems, including the CROSSBOW program.

Your skills and experience will play a key role in shaping our growing organization, building our capabilities, and delivering on our mission. Join us and build a career that will shape the future of laser defense.

POSITION SUMMARY

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.

KEY 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

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• 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
• 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

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)

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

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

• 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

WHY JOIN IPG DEFENSE

• Work at the forefront of directed-energy and photonics innovation on systems that matter to national security.
• Vertically integrated technology: we design and build our own lasers, giving engineers end-to-end ownership from component to fielded system.
• Small, expert, fast-moving team in Huntsville, AL - one of the nation's fastest-growing aerospace and defense hubs.
• Career growth through hands-on work across the full product lifecycle: concept, prototype, integration, field test, and production.
• Competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package - see Compensation & Benefits below.