Process Engineer

About the role

Lightera is a global leader in optical fiber and connectivity solutions, delivering innovative technologies that drive communication networks, data centers, and specialty photonics applications. This position is based in Avon, CT and supports continued business growth.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and improve sensing inscription and testing processes.
• Increase process readiness, throughput, yield, productivity, and cost efficiency.
• Map process, communication, and quality-control flows.
• Plan and run experiments, collect data, and analyze results to identify improvement opportunities.
• Create and implement process improvement roadmaps, including automation and digital transformation projects.
• Create and maintain process documentation, including DFMEA and PFMEA.
• Train production staff on new processes and support certification activities.
• Ensure process integrity and performance to meet production goals and resolve process issues.
• Participate in sensing research, product development, and cross-functional technical projects.
• Provide technical support to customers and internal teams, including quality and supply chain.
• Collaborate with technical teams across Lightera labs and partner locations.
• Stay current on emerging technologies and ensure processes remain safe, efficient, and compliant.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in optical, electrical, mechanical, or industrial engineering, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
• 3+ years of process development experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of fiber optics, FBGs, and fiber-optic sensing.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and root-cause analysis skills.
• Experience with DOE, 8D, statistical analysis, and project management.
• Experience with process recipe development, technical writing, and production documentation, including work instructions and procedures.
• Ability to train and certify production technicians and improve production and information flow.
• Familiarity with continuous improvement methods, including Lean, 6S, cost reduction, quality enhancement, safety, and yield improvement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Experience with CAD software and other engineering tools.
• A motivated, team-focused approach and a commitment to strong customer service.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in optical, electrical, mechanical, or industrial engineering, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
• 3+ years of process development experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of fiber optics, FBGs, and fiber-optic sensing.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and root-cause analysis skills.
• Experience with DOE, 8D, statistical analysis, and project management.
• Experience with process recipe development, technical writing, and production documentation, including work instructions and procedures.
• Ability to train and certify production technicians and improve production and information flow.
• Familiarity with continuous improvement methods, including Lean, 6S, cost reduction, quality enhancement, safety, and yield improvement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Experience with CAD software and other engineering tools.
• A motivated, team-focused approach and a commitment to strong customer service.

Skills

• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and root-cause analysis skills.
• Experience with DOE, 8D, statistical analysis, and project management.
• Experience with process recipe development, technical writing, and production documentation, including work instructions and procedures.
• Ability to train and certify production technicians and improve production and information flow.
• Familiarity with continuous improvement methods, including Lean, 6S, cost reduction, quality enhancement, safety, and yield improvement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Experience with CAD software and other engineering tools.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries and generous benefits programs, including health, dental, vision and well-being.
• Company-sponsored 401(k) plan with a generous match and no vesting period.
• Tuition assistance, on-the-job training and opportunities for growth and advancement.
• We promote from within.
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) program and paid holidays.
• Casual work environment, PPE, safety eyeglass and shoe allowance.
• Clean, climate-controlled, modern facility with state of the art equipment.
• Employees are expected to serve as role models for safe work practices and behaviors.

Pay

Competitive salaries and benefits package.

Schedule

Full-time position.