R&D Engineers – Optical Fiber; Preform Assembly

Scismic is supporting the growth of the most respected legacies in American industry, known for pioneering breakthroughs in optical technologies! With a proven history of industry firsts—including application‑specific fibers, optical connectors, ribbon cables, erbium‑doped fibers, Raman fiber lasers, and fiber gratings—Company is committed to delivering cutting‑edge optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and supplying high performance optical fibers, fiber cable and components and devices.

Their mission is to advance communication technology while providing exceptional service that drives value for customers, employees, and shareholders.

We seek a highly motivated and skilled Preform Assembly R&D Engineer to support the company’s optical fiber program in Somerset, NJ. Core focus includes stacking and assembling glass preforms, operating latches, and maintaining cleanliness in a cleanroom manufacturing process. The role offers the opportunity to advance optical fiber processing technology and have a significant impact on new product innovation. The ideal candidate will be responsible for equipment and process design and troubleshooting, and innovate in optical fiber fabrication techniques in collaboration with cross‑functional teams at multiple locations.

In this role, the candidate will support R&D programs to advance optical fiber science and technology for programs serving the medical, aerospace, and telecommunications industries.

• Be a critical asset in leading an R&D program to advance optical fiber technology, including overseeing and contributing to development and innovation in optical fiber fabrication to improve performance, quality, reliability, and scalability.
• Investigate the relationship between process parameters, fiber properties, and manufacturing outcomes, and guide technicians and engineers in conducting process trials and experiments to achieve project milestones.
• Fabricate and characterize optical fibers to meet performance specifications and project requirements.
• Conduct research, propose experiments, and analyze data to validate hypotheses and improve process understanding, particularly for troubleshooting fiber performance and quality as well as equipment and material issues.
• Manage, maintain, and upgrade mechanical and electronic facilities for optical fiber fabrication and testing, including automation, data logging, and fabrication records.
• Collaborate with project teams to design and develop fabrication processes and facilities for fiber fabrication, particularly for novel fibers.
• Stay informed of, and contribute to, advancements in fiber draw technology and integrate best practices in collaboration with global R&D, manufacturing, and engineering teams.
• Communicate and document research findings through detailed technical reports and presentations.
• Be a strong team player with openness and willingness to contribute toward group goals and achievements.
• Perform other related duties as required to meet project and organizational needs.

• Preform Assembly—2+ years of experience in a materials, mechanical, or manufacturing role. Ability to perform precision assembly work in a cleanroom environment.
• Master’s (MSc) or Ph.D. in Physics, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a similarly related field.
• Proven expertise in developing and optimizing manufacturing processes, preferably in optical fiber or similar manufacturing.
• Experience designing, analyzing and reporting experiments for complex process systems.

• Proficiency in data analysis, experimental design, and process optimization methods.
• Understanding of high‑temperature processes related to glass properties and material flow is an advantage.
• Experience with fiber characterization techniques, including optical and mechanical property measurements.
• Analytical and problem‑solving skills to address complex process challenges and defects.
• Leadership skills to guide technical teams and mentor junior staff effectively.
• Collaboration skills to work with cross‑functional teams and global partners.
• Excellent…