Optical Coating Engineering Technician

Apogee Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: APOG), founded in 1949 and headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, is a growing, profitable company with annual revenues approaching $1.5 billion. We provide distinctive metal and glass solutions for enclosing commercial buildings, and glass and acrylic solutions for picture framing and display applications. The Apogee Performance Surfaces segment generates $200M in revenue with EBITDA margins of 20-25%. Our brands develop and manufacture high-performance coated materials for wall décor, museums, graphic design, architectural interiors, digital display, and industrial flooring markets. We are the global leader in anti-reflective, conservation-grade, electrostatic dissipative, high-definition, and abrasion-resistant coatings that provide protection, innovative designs, and exceptional durability.

About the role

The Optical Coating Engineering Technician provides direct technical support to the Coating Manager, Process Technicians, and production coaters. They contribute to the development of new products and implementation of coating process improvements.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct technical support and guidance to Process Technicians, including planning and executing technical training programs and on-the-job support to enhance technical skills, promote efficiencies, and positively impact overall production/yields.
• Audit Process Technicians on standard operating procedures related to the coating process and provide meaningful, constructive performance feedback.
• Provide regular technical feedback to the Coating Process Manager on Process Technicians’ technical skill deficiencies, development opportunities, and work performance, including escalating technical performance issues as necessary.
• Assist the Coating Process Manager with coordinating Process Technician scheduling and coater coverage plans.
• Contribute to the development of new products and implementation of coating process improvements.
• Generate samples and conduct trials on the development coater for new coating efforts and improvements to existing coatings and processes.
• Lead or participate in development efforts on the production coaters.
• Perform required product testing: optical, mechanical, environmental, etc., and participate in the development of new standards.
• Monitor the status of production coaters and lead or participate in troubleshooting efforts when needed.
• Work directly and effectively with customers and vendors in support of new products or technology.
• Support the patent process as requested.
• Use data to manage risks effectively and be aware of the impact of decisions on other departments.
• Stay current on developing markets and technological trends through external information sources.
• Provide support through effective and efficient literature searching.
• Interact with Maintenance and Support groups to ensure appropriate preventative maintenance items are completed and potential issues are resolved.
• All other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience or equivalent combination of education and experience in technology, equipment, or product development, with a substantial portion in vacuum or thin film coating. 5 years of experience is preferred.
• PC Skills and proficiency required: Microsoft Office, Internet, E-mail, Spreadsheets, and department-specific software (specific software may be learned on the job).
• Basic knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems.
• Proficient in training others.
• Knowledge of vacuum theory, systems, and hardware; demonstrated application and hands-on ability.
• Familiarity with and previous use of Six Sigma tools. Prior Six Sigma formal training preferred.
• Optical modeling and coating design experience preferred.
• Ability and willingness to lead and motivate others in a positive manner, including coaching others to follow work instructions, achieve standards, reach team goals, and resolve conflicts.
• Ability to operate both development and production coaters, with a desire to learn the intricacies of operating Tru Vue’s coating equipment. Able to adapt to new technology and techniques.
• Demonstrated understanding of the relationship between product features and manufacturing parameters, and quality measurements.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to discuss, develop, and implement plans. Demonstrated ability to work and lead in a cross-functional team environment and interact effectively with others at various levels of the organization.
• Proficient use of department-specific software, equipment, and instrumentation.
• Proven excellent problem-solving and root cause identification and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to manage time, workload, and projects efficiently; ability to prioritize, modify, prioritize, and organize efficiently. Produces projects on time and on budget.
• Ability to work independently and move projects forward without close supervision.
• Sensitive to other cultures and backgrounds, able to work effectively in a diverse workplace.
• Ability to work outside scheduled hours in a 24/5 operation, based on the needs for technical support on the production coaters.

Work Environment

This job is primarily performed in an office environment with a moderate noise level. The employee frequently interacts with individuals on the plant floor, near moving mechanical parts, where the noise level is usually loud. The employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, and hear. The employee frequently uses hands and fingers to feel, handle, or operate objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Vision requirements include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

Schedule

1st Shift Monday-Friday 6:00am-2:30pm

Pay

$26.00-30.00/hour

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package for employees and their dependents (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability).
• Incentive Plans
• 401(k) with employer contribution and match
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan with employer match
• Paid Time Off (Vacation and Sick Time)
• Paid Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Wellness Program
• Training and Career Progression