Manufacturing Engineer

VIAVI Solutions•Santa Rosa, CA

1d•$68,600 - $127,400

About The Position

The Manufacturing Engineer supports VIAVI’s optics manufacturing team in developing, maintaining, and evolving advanced manufacturing processes for thin-film-based optical coatings. This role focuses on optimizing production through data analysis, quality control, and continuous improvement. The position involves hands-on work with equipment, processes, and technologies such as thin-film deposition, high-vacuum systems, complex metrology, and safety systems. The role requires a blend of technical expertise, problem solving, and close partnership with the manufacturing, engineering, quality, and maintenance teams to meet production goals and drive continuous improvement.

Requirements

3+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in a related field
MS or BS in Physics, Chemical, Electrical, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering, or a similar related discipline
Proven track record supporting and improving manufacturing processes in an engineering role
Working knowledge of quality systems — PFMEA, CAPA, 8D root-cause, SPC
Software & computer competency including MS Office, advanced Excel skills, AI tool generation, experience with statistical analysis tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab) and data-driven problem-solving.
Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
ITAR eligible US persons only.
Fluent in English (reading and writing)

Nice To Haves

Optical thin-film coating manufacturing or specialty materials manufacturing
Transitioning products from prototype to production
ISO 9001 / AS9100 quality systems
MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems)
Self-motivated, organized, and autonomous
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Effective project and priority management
Fast learner with strong technical curiosity
Hands-on, shop-floor-engaged mindset
Ability to influence and collaborate across teams
Excellent communication and presentation abilities

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for optical coating production, including thin-film deposition, cleaning, and inspection.
Design and execute experiments to identify critical process parameters and improve product yield, quality, and throughput.
Troubleshoot production issues, analyze root causes, and implement effective corrective and preventive actions.
Work closely with manufacturing, engineering, and maintenance teams to support daily operations.
Provide real-time support to the manufacturing floor, including occasional off-shift remote assistance.
Use statistical process control (SPC) and other analytical tools to monitor process performance and identify areas for improvement.
Drive improvements in cost, quality, productivity, and safety using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
Collaborate with R&D, Quality, and Production teams to transition new products from development to manufacturing, ensuring manufacturability and cost-effectiveness.
Effectively manage multiple projects with shifting priorities.