Manufacturing Engineer Photonics; Automation & Fiber Alignment - Bedford, MA

Role Summary

The Manufacturing Engineer - Photonics is responsible for developing, sustaining, and improving automated and semi-automated manufacturing processes for advanced laser products. This hands‑on role focuses on automation ownership, fiber alignment and attach processes, yield improvement, and production scalability. The position works cross‑functionally with Manufacturing, Quality, Process Engineering, and R&D to transition robust photonics assembly processes into volume manufacturing and support them through the full product lifecycle.

Automation and Equipment Ownership

• Design, develop, and sustain automated and semi‑automated laser assembly equipment.
• Specify and integrate motion systems, machine vision, metrology, dispense/weld tools, and cure platforms.
• Define equipment requirements, acceptance criteria, run‑at‑rate plans, and lead equipment release to production.
• Establish preventive maintenance, calibration plans, spares strategies, and equipment lifecycle management.
• Improve equipment reliability using uptime metrics and structured root‑cause analysis.
• Design fixtures and tooling using CAD.

Fiber Alignment and Attach Process Engineering

• Own fiber alignment and attach processes, including active alignment, attach, cure, and verification.
• Develop and control process windows for alignment algorithms, welding/adhesives, curing, and thermal management.
• Execute DOE‑based characterization for coupling efficiency, power stability, and long‑term reliability.
• Define in‑line controls and acceptance tests such as insertion loss, return loss, mechanical strength, and inspection.
• Create and maintain work instructions, process specifications, travelers, and training documentation.

Yield, Quality, and Scale

• Lead yield improvement and defect reduction using structured problem‑solving methodologies.
• Implement SPC, control plans, MSA/Gage R&R, and traceability systems.
• Partner with Quality on nonconformances, CAPAs, and audit readiness.
• Support NPI activities including process transfer, pilot builds, and production ramp.

Data Systems and Documentation

• Build data pipelines from equipment into MES/SPC systems and define dashboards and alarms.
• Maintain PFMEAs, process flows, control plans, equipment documentation, and validation reports.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Electrical, Mechatronics, or related engineering field (advanced degrees preferred).
• 5+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in precision assembly; photonics or laser manufacturing preferred.
• Experience developing or supporting automation equipment in production environments.
• Demonstrated use of DOE, SPC, and root‑cause methodologies.
• Hands‑on troubleshooting experience in manufacturing environments.
• Proficiency with Solid Works.