Senior Optical Fabrication Process Engineer

Senior Optical Fabrication Process Engineer

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Optical, Materials, or related field)
• Minimum 5 years of experience in optical fabrication process engineering or a related manufacturing environment
• Hands-on experience with optics fabrication techniques, including CNC machining, polishing, and surface inspection
• Strong understanding of process control methodologies and statistical analysis techniques
• Proficient in statistical process control (SPC), root cause analysis (RCA), and lean manufacturing tools
• Familiarity with metrology techniques and quality assurance in optics manufacturing
• Proficiency in data analysis tools such as JMP, Minitab, or equivalent software
• Demonstrated ability to lead problem-solving initiatives and implement process improvements
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with ability to work effectively across different departments
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results under tight deadlines

Responsibilities

• Champion a safety-first culture through the identification of potential hazards, application of risk assessment methodologies, and implementation of mitigation controls in accordance with Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) standards.
• Drive a quality-motivated approach through rigorous process validation, consistent quality metrics monitoring, and zero-defect mindset.
• Maintain focus on on-time delivery by balancing process improvements with production schedules and customer commitments.
• Develop, optimize, and sustain optical fabrication processes, including generating, grinding, high-speed polishing, pad polishing (PP), and continuous polishing (CP).
• Implement process controls and lead troubleshooting efforts for process-related issues, including root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions.
• Ensure all processes meet ISO9001 and ISO14001 standards, maintaining traceability, compliance, and audit readiness.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including production, quality, metrology, and equipment maintenance to resolve technical challenges and implement sustainable solutions.
• Define process specifications and control limits; utilize statistical analysis tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab) to evaluate process capabilities and drive data-driven decision-making and maintain 6P=P from feasibility to production readiness phases.
• Apply Six Sigma principles to continuous process improvement initiatives, and support cost reduction projects using structured problem-solving methodologies to identify and address sources of variation in optical fabrication processes.
• Perform hands-on process trials and support qualification of new equipment, materials, and process changes to enhance production performance.
• Document and maintain process specifications, work instructions, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure knowledge retention and standardization.
• Provide training and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians to build process expertise within the team.
• Regularly report on process Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) with data-backed findings and report progress to management.
• Support process control initiatives, lead troubleshooting efforts for process-related issues, and implement solutions to prevent recurrence.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets for process optimization.
• Knowledge of production planning to address potential bottlenecks while maintaining high-quality outputs.
• Experience in a semiconductor or precision optics manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of Design of Experiments (DOE) and Six Sigma methodologies
• Familiarity with coating or cleaning processes
• Previous experience in a leadership or mentorship role within an engineering team
• Experience with SAP or MES systems
• Knowledge of cleanroom protocols and practices