Thin Film Engineer

About the role

Materion is seeking a Thin Film Engineer to join our Precision Optics and Thin Film Coatings team in Westford, MA.

Responsibilities

• Develop, design and optimize optical thin film coating designs to meet customer specifications
• Create detailed manufacturing plans for new product opportunities
• Provide process engineering support, guidance and instruction to support manufacturing
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles
• Ensure all necessary process documentation exists and resides in ERP
• Oversee and validate Statistical Process Control (SPC), process trouble shooting, Material Review Board (MRB) investigations and continuous improvement recommendations
• Collaborate with Sales, Production, QA, EHS and R&D teams to integrate innovative solutions and ensure alignment on process improvements
• Facilitate effective communication, drive projects and status updates to achieve common goals
• Mentor and train technicians and operators on optimized processes and best practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration within the team
• Establish & monitor integrated project schedule to include all phases of development
• Develop & track projects using Microsoft Project or similar project scheduling tool
• Demonstrate ability to establish & track project budget through entire development cycle

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in technical discipline (Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or similar technical discipline) or equivalent experience in engineering and process development
• 0-3 years of Engineering experience in manufacturing process development, optics or optical coating technologies is preferred
• Understand and operate metrology equipment used for characterizing thin films, including spectrophotometry and interferometry
• Experience in a low volume / high mix product environment is an asset
• Exhibit sound interpersonal skills involving interfacing, coordinating and negotiating with company personnel at all levels, customers and suppliers
• Exhibit excellent oral and written communication skills
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel and MS Project or similar planning software

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with SPC tools, DOE, and root cause analysis (e.g., 5-Whys, Fishbone)
• Track record of successful project management experience, leading multiple projects simultaneously
• Background in high-mix, low-volume production environments