Optical Engineer

Rigaku•Auburn Hills, MI

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Optical Engineer at RIT is responsible for developing precision optics technology and precision optics technology-based X-ray optics. This includes the development of processes and precision optical components using CNC grinding and polishing equipment, and verifying results with optical metrology tools such as interferometers, profilometers, and microscopy. The role requires strong CNC machining backgrounds with excellent fundamentals in setup, fixturing, offsets, inspection, and process discipline, with the ability to learn optics-specific fabrication and measurement methods.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related field
Minimum: 3+ years of demonstrated experience in a CNC machine shop or precision manufacturing environment producing tight-tolerance components, with strong fundamentals in: setup/fixturing and part alignment, tool selection, offsets, and compensation changes, in-process and final inspection using precision instruments, disciplined cleaning/handling of precision parts and work area control
Working knowledge of CNC machine architecture and operation, including: machine coordinate systems vs. work coordinate systems; establishing datums and alignment strategy, tool length/wear offsets, work offsets, compensation methodology, and safe prove-out practices
Ability to read/edit CNC programs and understand common G/M codes relevant to setup, motion, compensation, and safety interlocks; capable of making controlled program adjustments to improve process outcomes.
Experience using probing / touch-off methods (or equivalent setup verification techniques) and applying inspection feedback to refine offsets/compensation.
Understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, including runout, concentricity, flatness, parallelism, and how these relate to inspection strategy and fixturing.
Strong ability to complete tasks and processes with accuracy, thoroughness, and consistency.
Strong ability to identify issues, evaluate potential solutions, and take proactive steps to resolve challenges.
Proficiency with shop math / geometry (trig, radii, sag, runout, coordinate transforms) to support setup, verification, and problem solving.
Willingness and ability to learn and apply optics-specific requirements including figure error, slope error, surface roughness, and scratch/dig.
Ability to interpret technical drawings/specifications and communicate clearly through documentation, handoffs, and cross-functional collaboration.
Communicates clearly and effectively in both oral and written forms.
Demonstrated capability in CAD and/or CAM (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for instrumental fixtures, tooling concepts, or process documentation.

Nice To Haves

Strong Preferred: 3+ years of hands-on experience in grinding/polishing/smoothing optical materials and using optical metrology systems such as interferometers, profilometers, and microscopes.
Preferred: 3+ years hands-on experience in precision optics manufacturing and metrology, including deterministic polishing and advanced fabrication/measurement methods.
Proficiency in programming is a plus.

Responsibilities

Set up, operate, and optimize CNC (and manual, as needed) grinding/polishing processes to meet specifications for optical components, such as dimensions, figure error, slope error, and surface roughness.
Develop and implement robust workpiece holding and alignment solutions, including datum strategy, part positioning, and repeatable fixturing for high-precision parts.
Perform in-process and final inspection using optical metrology tools such as interferometers, profilometers, and microscopes; interpret results and determine next corrective actions.
Conduct instrument checks and basic calibration/verification (reference artifacts, repeatability checks, traceability practices) to ensure processing integrity and stable performance.
Maintain equipment in proper operating condition through routine maintenance and safe operation; keep a clean, organized workspace consistent with precision optics manufacturing expectations.
Troubleshoot and resolve manufacturing issues across systems including mechanical, electrical, pneumatic (compressed air), pumping, cooling, and exhaust/ventilation, escalating as needed.
Read and interpret drawings and specifications for optical components.