Laboratory Technician - Liquid Crystal Cell Assembly (Cleanroom)

About Augmenteum
Augmenteum is a pioneer in active optics with recently approved patents in optical and liquid crystal technology. We combine photonics, materials science, and product engineering to deliver compact, low-power, active and adaptive optical components for smarter optical systems. Operating in a state-of-the-art cleanroom environment in Kent, Ohio, we design and assemble precision photonic and optical systems, and are expanding our production team.

About the role
We are seeking a motivated and detail‑oriented Laboratory Technician to join our production team. The successful candidate will receive full training and will assist in the fabrication, etching, photolithography, and assembly of liquid crystal cells under clean‑room conditions. This is an excellent entry‑level opportunity for someone with an associate’s degree (or above) in a technical discipline who is eager to learn and grow in a clean‑room manufacturing environment.

What you’ll do

• Perform cleanroom operations including gowning, maintaining cleanliness protocols, and working under ISO‑classified conditions.
• Assist with photolithography processes: preparing substrates, coating, exposure, development, inspection.
• Perform chemical etching processes: immersion or spray etch, cleaning, neutralization, rinse, inspection.
• Assemble liquid crystal cells: alignment, sealing, testing, inspection of assembled devices.
• Operate and maintain equipment as required (with training), log process parameters, document results.
• Adhere to safety, chemical handling, and clean‑room protocols at all times.
• Work collaboratively with process engineers and production staff to meet throughput and quality goals.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and contribute suggestions for process optimization.

You’re a good fit if you have

• Associate’s degree (or above) in physics, chemistry, material science, engineering technology, or similar discipline.
• No prior cleanroom experience required — full training will be provided.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standard operating procedures precisely.
• Comfortable working in a controlled environment (cleanroom) with chemical processes.
• Good manual dexterity, comfort with microscopes/inspection tools is a plus.
• Basic computer skills (data entry, logging results).
• Ability to work flexible hours/shifts if required.
• Commitment to quality and safety.

Work environment & schedule

• Work in a cleanroom environment following gowning/clean protocols.
• Some standing, light lifting (up to ~20 lbs), bending/inspection work.
• Work with chemicals/etching agents — full training and PPE provided.
• Must follow strict cleanliness and safety protocols.

Compensation & benefits

• Hourly pay: $20–$22/hr DOE (up to $24–$26/hr for experienced)
• Overtime eligible, paid holidays/PTO, and benefits package

How to apply

Send your resume to with subject “Cleanroom Tech – OH”. We look forward to hearing from you..

Augmenteum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other group protected by law.

Work authorization: Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $26.00 per hour

Work Location: In person