Optical Instrument Assemblers

Assemble optical instruments, such as telescopes, level-transits, and gunsights.

Job Task

• Measure and mark dimensions and reference points, and lay out stock for machining.
• Measure elements and instrument parts in order to verify dimensional specifications, using precision measuring instruments.
• Mix holding compounds, and mount workpieces or optical elements on holding fixtures.
• Pick up elements, using vacuum-holding devices, and position elements in mounting seats of instrument housings.
• Position targets in darkroom tunnels, and connect optical instruments to test devices, such as oscilloscopes and collimators.
• Set up and operate machines in order to assemble structural, mechanical, and optical parts of instruments.
• Sight instruments on targets, and read dials in order to determine optical centers of instrument lenses and to verify compliance to focusing power specifications.
• Study work orders, blueprints, and sketches in order to formulate plans and sequences for fabricating optical elements, instruments, and systems.
• Compute sighting instrument distances, using trigonometric formulas.
• Paint parts, using brushes and spray guns.
• Insert and screw locking rings into housings in order to hold elements in place; apply cement to locking rings in order to prevent loosening.
• Cement multiple lens assemblies together.
• Clean elements and parts, using tissue, cleaning solutions, and air compressors.
• Coat optical elements according to specifications, using coating equipment.
• Fill instrument housings with nitrogen gas in order to minimize corrosive effects on internal optical surfaces, using vacuum pumps.
• Grind and polish optics, using hand tools and polishing cloths.
• Record production, inspection, and test data in logs.

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