Process Engineer –Deterministic Polishing & Lap Figure Control

Job Summary

ASML Wilton is seeking a Process Engineer to own deterministic polishing lap figure control across optical fabrication. The role is responsible for Continues Polishing (CP), Speed Polishing (PP), and spindle lap flatness, standard conditioning methods, and consistent polishing practices across platforms. The engineer will use process and metrology data to improve predictable polishing behavior, First Pass Yield (FPY), and defect performance.

This is a technical ownership role focused on standardization, qualification, and sustained process control. The engineer will work with Manufacturing, Metrology, Quality, Technology, Equipment Engineering, and other Process Engineers to implement universal polishing standards and close gaps affecting lap performance and process readiness.

This role requires a proactive engineering mindset: anticipating issues before they impact production, driving structured 6P readiness, performing thorough RCA, and continuously evaluating new technologies and deterministic tools to strengthen long-term process control. This is not a reactive support role; the expectation is ownership, foresight, and continuous improvement.

• Own CP, PP, and spindle lap flatness performance across Machining, Generating, Polishing (MGP).
• Define lap flatness specifications, control limits, measurement methods, and acceptance criteria.
• Develop deterministic methods to monitor, correct, and maintain lap geometry.
• Convert interferometry, profilometry, and process data into clear conditioning and process actions.

• Develop, qualify, and maintain standard lap conditioning methods.
• Define conditioner selection, operating settings, conditioning frequency, and recovery methods.
• Create and maintain universal standards for lap preparation, conditioning, monitoring, and release.
• Maintain work instructions, specifications, and standard work required for sustained method adoption.

• Benchmark lap and polishing performance across CP, PP, and spindle platforms.
• Identify and reduce machine-to-machine, product-to-product, and shift-to-shift variation.
• Establish common process requirements while documenting justified platform-specific differences.
• Support transfer and deployment of proven methods across applicable MGP work centers.

• Lead qualification of new conditioning methods, lap materials, measurement techniques, and related process changes.
• Drive structured root cause analysis for lap-related defects, FPY loss, figure instability, and process variation.
• Ensure corrective actions are verified, documented, implemented, and sustained.
• Own process readiness milestones and close assigned actions within committed dates.
• Support technician and engineer training and qualification on approved polishing standards.

• Lap flatness compliance
• Process consistency across applicable platforms
• First Pass Yield improvement
• Reduction in lap-related defects and rework
• Standard method adoption
• Qualification progress
• Process readiness
• On-time action and AIR closure

• BS, MS in Mechanical, Optical, Materials, or a related engineering field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in optical fabrication, precision machining, grinding, polishing, or a related manufacturing process.
• Experience with polishing mechanics, lap conditioning, figure control, metrology interpretation, process development, and production support.
• Demonstrated ability in structured problem solving, data analysis, root cause analysis, qualification, and process improvement.

• Strong understanding of optical polishing, lap behavior, conditioning, and material removal mechanisms.
• Experience with interferometry, profilometry, and surface inspection methods.
• Ability to establish process specifications, control plans, capability targets, and long-term monitoring.
• Proficiency with JMP, Minitab, or equivalent statistical analysis software.
• Strong cross-functional communication and technical leadership in a production environment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive actions to closure.

Work includes time on the fabrication floor, interaction with metrology and manufacturing equipment, and periods of standing or walking. The role may require lifting materials up to 20 pounds. Visual acuity for inspection tasks is required. The manufacturing…