Principal Optical Manufacturing Engineer
Onto Innovation
full-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Office
Location: Bloomington • Massachusetts, Minnesota • 🇺🇸 United States
Visit company websiteJob Level
Lead
Tech Stack
Assembly
About the role
- Create and implement manufacturing process plans, alignment, and calibration procedures in support of existing and new optical/laser products
- Support engineering and manufacturing teams in the assembly and testing of optical subassemblies and systems for wafer inspection/metrology equipment
- Collaborate with domestic and international teams—including Manufacturing, Engineering, Purchasing, and Suppliers—to resolve issues related to manufacturing processes, documentation, and components
- Provide advanced technical support for troubleshooting complex optical system issues and implement effective corrective actions
- Identify and qualify replacements for end-of-life components such as lasers and lenses
- Design and execute tests to validate the performance of substitute parts
- Design and implement incoming inspection protocols for lasers and optics, including automated data collection and analysis tools
- Develop software for data visualization and reporting
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and 8D problem-solving processes
- Support internal and external quality assurance and corrective action efforts
- Drive cost reduction initiatives by improving labor efficiency, material usage, and overall production quality
- Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally (average 5–15%)
Requirements
- Master’s degree in applied physics or a related field (e.g., Engineering, Physics, Optical Systems)
- 10+ years of relevant experience
- Proficient in interpreting scientific and technical documentation, schematics, and engineering drawings
- Strong troubleshooting skills in mechanical/electrical systems, laser systems (including power stability and beam profiling), imaging systems, and light engines
- Proven ability to collaborate with manufacturing, engineering, and operations teams
- Effective communication skills for interacting with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders
- Skilled in Microsoft Office and CAD software (preferably CREO or SolidWorks)
- Programming experience (C# preferred) is a plus
- Experience in biotech, semiconductor, or metrology industries is highly desirable
Benefits
- health/dental/vision/life/disability
- PTO
- 401K plan with employer match
- Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)
- health & wellness initiatives
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard skills
manufacturing process planscalibration proceduresoptical systems troubleshootingdata visualizationdata collection8D problem-solvinglaser systemsimaging systemsengineering drawings interpretationprogramming (C#)
Soft skills
collaborationeffective communicationtroubleshootingproblem-solvingteamwork
Certifications
Master’s degree in applied physicsMaster’s degree in EngineeringMaster’s degree in PhysicsMaster’s degree in Optical Systems