3D Process Engineer III

Join a team that is changing millions of lives. Transforming smiles, changing lives. At Align Technology, we believe a great smile can transform a person’s life, so we create technology that gives people the confidence to take on whatever’s next. We revolutionized the orthodontic industry with the introduction of the Invisalign system, and we have never lost sight of that spirit of innovation.

Our diverse and collaborative teams are constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Ready to join us? About this opportunity The 3D Printing Process Team is looking for a 3D Process Engineer III at the San Jose, CA, location. The 3D Process Engineer will plan and execute the R&D activities pertaining to process development and optimization for orthodontic products developed with novel manufacturing processes and materials.

In this role, you will… Explore and test new AM processes and post processing equipment for manufacturing with novel materials. Design and execute experiments to optimize manufacturing process and post processes Create and execute Installation, Operation and Process Qualification Protocols for new manufacturing processes. Work closely with equipment manufacturer to understand equipment operational set points and redesign/ modify equipment to meet the requirements dictated by the process.

Collaborate closely with materials and design teams to explore the process-structure-property relationship to develop and identify process maps for manufacturing orthodontic devices. Work closely with design, material and technology development teams to develop inspection methods for process control and monitoring. Identify and troubleshoot activities pertaining to process stability and reliability. Work closely with Systems Engineering and Quality teams to facilitate the transfer of technology and process to pilot manufacturing lines.

Work with cross functional teams to develop SOP’s and Work Instructions to facilitate the traceability and transfer of manufacturing process. Work closely with materials and early process innovation teams to support the generation of intellectual property. Design, fabricate and implement mechanical/ mechatronic systems in lab scale printing, post processing or testing equipment. In this role, you’ll need … A doctoral degree in mechanical engineering, material science or similar field of study where Additive Manufacturing was a core part of the doctoral research.

Additionally, 1-2 years of direct work experience in additive manufacturing processes is desirable. OR A master’s degree in mechanical or material science engineering, or a similar field of study with research in polymer additive manufacturing. Education experience supplemented with 5 years of direct work experience in additive manufacturing is preferred. Demonstratable expertise of using statistics for process study and optimization.

Experience in the form of modeling/ characterization with the aim of understanding the fundamental physics of any additive manufacturing process (preferably polymer-based AM process)

Experience with process capability analysis and optimization. Experience using statistical tools such as JMP, Minitab, or experience using MATLAB or python for data analysis. Experience using CAD tools and 3D printing slicing software. Experience using materials testing, materials characterization, and metrology instruments. Demonstrable experience of the ability to follow a hypothesis-based approach to problem solving. Ability to clearly communicate the (1) approach to solving a problem, and (2) communicate the results to an audience of varied skill level.

Experience working with cross functional teams to meet common objectives. Preferably have the experience of working on a project from concept stage to MVP stage. Preferably have experience with vat photopolymerization additive manufacturing process. Experience having built or modified 3D printers. OR Experience using 3D printers on an almost daily basis. Good documentation, writing and presentation skills. Preferably have experience working with external vendors and generation of parts for external manufacturing.

Strive to maintain a…