Cory O'Brien
Logan
Summary
Detail-oriented Engineering Technician with expertise in troubleshooting and equipment maintenance. Proven ability to implement process improvements and enhance operational efficiency with robust experience in supporting complex technical projects and ensuring high quality outcomes. Strong focus on team collaboration and adaptability to shifting project requirements. Reliable and results-driven, with solid foundation in technical analysis and operational efficiency.
Overview
1
1
Certification
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Engineering Technician
Wasatch Photonics
Logan, UT
11.2010 - Current
- Operated and maintained precision optical instruments for high-quality imaging applications.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues effectively.
- Implemented process improvements that enhanced equipment performance and reliability.
- Conducted detailed testing and validation of optical systems to ensure compliance with specifications.
- Trained junior technicians on operational procedures and best practices for equipment handling.
- Developed documentation for standard operating procedures, enhancing team knowledge and efficiency.
- Led initiatives focused on reducing downtime through proactive maintenance strategies and scheduling adjustments.
- Consistently met high-quality standards for all completed work while adhering to established timelines, ensuring client satisfaction with final results.
- Collaborated closely with engineers in developing new products or improving existing ones, providing valuable input from a technician''s perspective.
- Improved equipment reliability by performing regular maintenance and calibrations.
- Enhanced overall team productivity through continuous improvement initiatives focused on streamlining processes and optimizing resource allocation.
- Supervised and directed work of team testing new engineering designs.
- Interpreted results of tests and drafted reports of findings.
- Improved product quality by customizing tools and eliminating variability.
- Performed routine maintenance and replaced worn parts.
- Facilitated knowledge transfer within organization, documenting key processes and training staff on new technologies.
- Reduced downtime and maintenance costs, implementing predictive maintenance schedules based on detailed analysis of equipment performance data.
- Reduced downtime during projects by rapidly identifying and resolving issues with machinery or systems.
- Completed projects by effectively applying engineering, technical, and maintenance procedures.
- Performed work according to project schedules and high quality standards.
- Reviewed technical drawings developed by CAD technicians and drafters.
- Implemented quality assurance procedures to minimize non-conformances.
- Streamlined workflow within the team through effective communication and collaboration with engineers, technicians, and management.
- Assisted with installation, calibration and testing of engineering systems.
- Assisted in training new team members on company procedures, policies, and technical skills necessary for their roles as Engineering Technicians.
- Read and interpreted blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, and computer-generated reports.
- Assisted with design and implementation of new engineering processes and procedures to optimize productivity.
- Played an instrumental role in reducing project costs by effectively managing resources such as materials inventory management.
- Enhanced system reliability by conducting rigorous quality control checks and identifying critical areas for improvement.
- Increased production efficiency, systematically analyzing and redesigning workflow processes in manufacturing unit.
- Enhanced the accuracy of technical documentation by reviewing and updating schematics, diagrams, and manuals regularly.
- Actively participated in cross-functional teams addressing complex problems requiring multidisciplinary perspectives contributing to successful outcomes.
- Supported successful product certifications, meticulously preparing documentation and coordinating with regulatory bodies.
- Optimized machine operation parameters, leading to noticeable improvement in product quality and consistency.
- Contributed to development of patent-pending technology, performing critical experiments and data analysis to validate concept.
- Treated classified data with utmost discretion, following military and federal protocols.
- Set up, calibrated and operated engineering equipment.
- Operated floating optical tables to create state of the art Volume Phase Holographic Gratings (VPHG) for use in a multitude of spectroscopy devices. Directly built and handled parts for the Perseverance Rover that is currently on Mars. Filter water and chemical baths, install and maintain airlines with desiccant filtration, run and maintain tile saws, optical grinders, laser oblation machines. Completely cleaned, remodeled, reorganized and 5S multiple labs and departments. Install light switches, ballasts, fluorescent lights and wiring outlets. Accuracy to the nanometer was a daily expectation. Repaired leaks to boiler lines, water lines and drain lines. Able to do IT support for moderate computer issues across the company including bypassing Linux system lockouts to regain access to critical information on machines believed to be lost. I am very proficient and capable at learning and utilizing computer skills and programs. I understand basic electrical work. I've lead teams of up to 5 people efficiently. Was an integral part in building the company from it's first "Million Dollar Year" over a decade ago to it now being sold for over 35 million dollars. Throughout the 15 years there I wore many more hats. I repaired multiple doors, built tables, replaced dishwashers, refrigerators and microwaves. After a fire in the building caused heavy smoke damage, I stayed and helped scrub all the walls down throughout several thousand square feet and repainted all the walls.
Education
High School Diploma -
Cache High School
Logan, UT05-2010
Skills
- Quality control
- Mechanical aptitude
- Active learning
- Organizational skills
- Reliability
- Multitasking
- Time management
- Strong work ethic
- Troubleshooting skills
- Critical thinking
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Equipment calibration
- Precision measuring tools
- Maintenance and repairs
Accomplishments
- Directly developed and built a integral part for the Perseverance Rover currently on Mars.
- I was a vital part in building the company from it's first "Million dollar year" over a decade ago to selling for over $35million in 2025.
Certification
- Laser Safety Officer, ANSI - 2024
Timeline
Engineering Technician
Wasatch Photonics
11.2010 - Current
High School Diploma -
Cache High School