Sr. Process Engineer

Who We Are

At nLIGHT, we are constantly on the cutting-edge of laser technology in a massively growing market. We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial, microfabrication, and aerospace & defense applications, to name a few. Our lasers are changing not only the way things are made, but also changing the things that can be made.

Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).

A key leader within the Process Engineering team, the successful candidate will require a strong combination of technical acumen in a laser diode / optics / systems engineering related field, leadership / situational awareness, and a drive to deliver successful outcomes in a faced paced environment. They will coordinate effectively with a wide range of cross functional groups to deliver capable processes leveraging a vertically integrated manufacturing environment.

This is a full-time onsite position, working at our Camas location.

• Early engagement with design teams on new system architecture / designs to ensure manufacturability in production
• Utilizing Systems Engineering techniques, ensure efficient integration of optical, mechanical, and electrical components to deliver high yielding production processes
• Leads and executes process development and improvement projects from conception to completion
• Supports transition of new products from prototype to volume production utilizing Lean practices, DFSS, and DFM
• Supports manufacturing of released processes and products including documenting work instructions and critical processes, and support training of personnel
• Evaluation, procurement, and qualification of new manufacturing equipment and tools
• Identification of recent external advancements in appropriate technical fields and qualifies these into production as capable processes
• Directs daily activities of Engineers and Engineering Technicians
• Summarize and present results in internal and external forums. Prepare written reports and technical documents
• Partner with operations and equipment engineering support to resolve manufacturing challenges in order to meet output and yield requirements
• Supports manufacturing and engineering both at Camas site and overseas high volume production

• Post-Graduate Degree in engineering (Optical, Electrical, Physics, Mechanical, Chemical) and 10+ years of industrial experience in closely related technologies, or equivalent combination of education (Bachelors Degree) and exceptional industrial experience
• Extensive experience in process or product development, covering technology areas such as lasers, opto-mechanical integration or complex power electronics
• Systems Engineering skills with strong expertise in process and quality control methods and a detailed understanding of statistical process control techniques and process capability
• Experience with setting up early prototyping and testing and new product lines and transitioning early products into volume production
• Strong record of problem solving through structured methodologies and implementing and sustaining robust processes and systems
• Situational leadership skills and ability to work with cross functional & multi-site teams effectively. Ability to drive consensus and deliver results in a faced paced environment
• Hands‑on working experience with optical fibers, lasers, optics, electronics and precision mechanical systems and required tools.
• Experience with assembly processes including use of tools, complex test equipment, adhesives, electrical power and cooling systems highly desired
• Working knowledge of manufacturing financial metrics and understanding of key drivers of cost
• Demonstrated ability to coach and mentor team members supporting their career development.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, energetic and self‑starter
• Proven success in leading teams and solving complex technical problems
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments
• Outstanding communication skills – both written and verbal
• Leadership experience in a high volume manufacturing environment, including managing engineering teams