Scientific Technical Quartz Glassblower

LightPath Technologies, Inc. is a leading global provider of precision optics and photonics solutions, serving defense, aerospace, medical, and industrial markets. With decades of expertise and a strong culture of innovation, LightPath designs and manufactures advanced optical components and systems that power some of the world’s most demanding applications. We offer a collaborative, technology-driven environment, opportunities to work on cutting-edge programs, and a comprehensive benefits package that supports our employees’ health, growth, and work-life balance.

We are currently seeking a highly skilled Scientific Technical Quartz Glassblower to join our manufacturing team. This role is responsible for fabricating, modifying, and repairing high-precision quartz glass components used in scientific, optical, and infrared applications. The position combines advanced craftsmanship with technical expertise to produce custom quartz vessels and components used in research environments, laboratory equipment, and advanced optical systems.

The ideal candidate will possess strong hands-on glassblowing experience with quartz materials and have transferable knowledge from related technical fields such as optical manufacturing, optical fabrication, or infrared technologies. This role requires attention to detail, precision workmanship, and the ability to collaborate effectively with engineering and research teams.

Responsibilities:

• Design, fabricate, modify, and repair precision quartz glass components including tubes, vessels, crucibles, and custom apparatuses using scientific glassblowing techniques.
• Work with fused quartz materials to meet exact specifications for thermal stability, optical performance, and chemical resistance.
• Interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and prototypes to produce custom components that meet engineering and research requirements.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and R&D teams to support prototype development and production projects.
• Perform quality inspections to ensure finished components meet required tolerances and industry standards for optical clarity and infrared transmission.
• Operate and maintain specialized glassblowing equipment including torches, glass lathes, and annealing ovens.
• Troubleshoot fabrication challenges and develop innovative solutions for complex glass assemblies.
• Maintain accurate production documentation and follow established manufacturing procedures.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures related to high-temperature equipment, compressed gases, and laboratory or manufacturing environments.

Knowledge, ability and skills:

• Strong technical proficiency in scientific or technical glassblowing techniques.
• Ability to work with fused quartz materials and understand their unique thermal and optical properties.
• Skill in flameworking, sealing, shaping, and forming quartz glass components.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and engineering specifications.
• Proficiency using precision measurement tools and inspection equipment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a technical manufacturing environment.

Experience/Qualifications:

• Proven experience in scientific or technical quartz glassblowing.
• Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience in a related technical or manufacturing environment.
• Background in one or more related fields such as:
  • Optical manufacturing
  • Optical fabrication (polishing, grinding, coating optics)
  • Infrared technologies (IR sensors, thermal imaging systems)
• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Preferred 

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field preferred.
• Experience working with vacuum systems, semiconductor fabrication, or laser optics.
• Professional certification in glassblowing or related trade (e.g., American Scientific Glassblowers Society).