WF Optics Group Lead, Plano- CWW Front End Nights

ASML brings together creative minds in science and technology to develop lithography machines that produce faster, cheaper, more energy-efficient microchips. This position is located in Wilton, CT.

About the role

You will lead the Compressed Work Week Front End Night (Sunday-Tuesday, alternate Saturday 6pm-6am) Optics manufacturing team for Milling, Grinding, and Polishing operations. This role includes managerial responsibilities for 15+ optical technicians across several work centers. You will ensure safe, on-time delivery of high-quality products while driving process and operational improvements.

Responsibilities

• Maintain alignment of individual, team, and area goals with department and company objectives.
• Create annual performance goals, coach, and mentor technicians for daily success.
• Partner with employees to develop professional growth action plans.
• Develop team competencies in technical skills, continuous improvement, teambuilding, and cross-training.
• Lead a team of technicians to deliver precision optics while meeting or exceeding Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including:
  • 5S safety
  • Product first pass yield
  • On-time delivery
  • Production lead time reduction
  • Labor efficiency and accuracy
  • Workforce development and upskilling
• Plan and set up detailed production schedules within manufacturing constraints and available resources.
• Ensure progress and output at minimal cost; solve problems and provide recovery plans.
• Realize planned output for all volume production deliverables.
• Ensure availability and usefulness of production tools in cooperation with Production Engineering.
• Maintain sufficient team know-how and training to meet production goals.
• Highlight product or performance issues transparently and escalate requests for help as needed.
• Facilitate continuous improvement initiatives within your area.
• Partner with Production Engineering to improve processes for efficiency and product quality.
• Apply structured, systematic problem-solving and encourage innovative solutions.
• Lead by example to foster motivation and achieve world-class quality and performance.
• Collaborate with peers across shifts to maintain production continuity.
• Communicate effectively to gain buy-in from technicians and influence department leaders.
• Handle administrative duties, including time and attendance record-keeping and performance reviews.
• Administer and enforce company policies and procedures consistently.
• Work with Human Resources on disciplinary issues and hiring decisions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree desired (science or engineering field preferred); minimum high school diploma required.
• At least 5 years of supervisory/leadership experience in manufacturing or 5 years of direct optics fabrication experience.
• Strong manufacturing operation acumen and LEAN manufacturing/Continuous Improvement experience.
• Computer proficiency with MS Outlook 365 and knowledge of SAP or comparable ERP systems.
• Familiarity with ISO9001 and ISO14001; experience in an ISO-certified environment is a plus.
• Prior optical fabrication experience is beneficial but not required.

Skills

• Strong ability to observe, respond to, and develop team performance.
• Coaching skills to help team members reach their potential.
• Ability to learn and apply new information or skills, including interpreting data and documents.
• Strong customer focus and commitment to satisfaction through prioritization, quality, and professionalism.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in a demanding, changing environment.
• Result-driven with ownership and accountability.
• Identifies bottlenecks and drives improvements.
• Works independently or as part of a team with minimal supervision.
• Clear, concise, and professional communication.
• Ability to build cooperative relationships with managers, coworkers, and customers.
• Enterprising, flexible, and analytical mindset.
• Strong social skills, team-building, and customer orientation.

Work Environment

• Exposure to moving mechanical parts, solvents, and tooling.
• Potential exposure to laser energy, magnetic fields, high voltage, and currents.
• Production areas maintained at 70–75°F and 35–50% relative humidity.
• Moderate noise levels in manufacturing areas.
• Occasional travel and training/business meetings on off-shifts may be required.
• Lifting up to 35 lbs. may be required.
• May require working in a climate-controlled cleanroom environment (72°F) with full gowning (coveralls, hood, safety shoes, face mask, gloves, and safety glasses).
• Must complete peer-to-peer transactional handoffs at shift start and end.
• Access to controlled technology requires legal authorization prior to beginning work.

Schedule

Compressed Work Week Front End Nights: Sunday–Tuesday, alternate Saturdays (6pm–6am).