Job Description

The Coherent AD Integrated Optical Systems business unit is a precision optics and optical assemblies design and manufacturing group that specializes in ultra-precision optical components and coatings. Applications include semiconductor and flat-panel display manufacturing, ground and space-based telescopes, defense systems and other exotic scientific and government-sponsored programs.  We are seeking an experienced Optical Coating Engineer to join our team!

The Optical Coating Engineer leads the technical team and coordinates engineering activities for design, development, and implementation of new thin film coating products and manufacturing processes. Responsibilities include all aspects of thin film coating engineering including coating design, tooling design, process development, qualification, and documentation, as well as the support of coating operations including substrate cleaning, deposition, inspection, and characterization. Serves as the Process Owner for thin film coating processes and equipment including implementation of process controls, troubleshooting equipment and maintaining consistent production outputs for the business.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Leads activities in the design, development, and execution of thin film deposition processes on various complex projects and substrates; ensures product designs meet customer specifications and technical requirements; develops design documentation, test procedures, Bills of Materials, and manufacturing work instructions with assistance from manufacturing engineering and operations personnel.
• Resolves technical issues as they arise during coating operations with assistance from manufacturing engineering, quality engineering and operations personnel; identifies root causes of manufacturing problems using analytical techniques; provides clear and concise corrective action status and reports.
• Understands, creates methods for and operates precision test equipment to measure optical properties of thin film coatings.
• Assists in the design and procurement of tooling used in thin film coating processes, with assistance from manufacturing engineering.
• Supports equipment maintenance personnel in developing, documenting and implementing preventative maintenance and equipment repair procedures.
• Coordinates with other departments such as Quality, Engineering, Program Management and Operations to complete project tasks on time and with quality.

Education & Experience

• Minimum BS in physics, optics, materials science, or engineering.
• 5 years thin film coating engineering experience, preferably at an aerospace company- candidates with advanced degrees may require less experience

Skills

• Hands-on experience in multiple conventional thin film deposition technologies (thermal and electron-beam evaporation, sputtering, chemical vapor deposition) including tooling design.  Must possess a thorough understanding of the physics and practical mechanics of these processes.
• Thin film modeling software experience (TFCalc, Macleod, etc.) 
• Computer skills in word processing and spreadsheet software, including MS Word, Excel, Access, some CAD (SolidWorks preferred)
• Strong verbal and written technical communication skills.
• Must be capable of reading shop blueprints and customer drawings.
• Experience in process design, development and project planning is desired.
• Ability to lead technical program presentations internally and for customers.
• Strong analytical, fault isolation, and problem-solving skills. DOE and SOE experience strongly desired.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to details required.
• Experience in preparing and maintaining drawings, procedures, process routers and Bills of Materials with full documentation and configuration control.

Working Conditions

• Lab environment - must be able and willing to work on and around machinery, moving parts, solvents and non-hazardous chemicals

Physical Requirements

• Standing. Particularly for sustained periods of time ~ 50% of the time
• Walking. Moving about on foot to accomplish tasks, particularly for long distances or moving from one work site to another
• Visual acuity. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to work with solvents and chemicals to clean optics or strip coatings

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations (ITAR), applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8. U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State."