Optical Systems Manufacturing Process Writer

Optimax Systems Inc.•Ontario, NY

9d•$50,000 - $65,000

About The Position

The Manufacturing Process Writer captures, documents, and translates complex manufacturing procedures and expert knowledge into clear, concise, accessible work instructions and standard operating procedures for production operators. The role preserves institutional knowledge, standardizes processes, and helps ensure operators have the information and resources needed to perform tasks accurately, efficiently, and safely. The writer works with subject matter experts—including engineers, senior technicians, and experienced operators—to capture key process steps and practical know-how. The position involves on-the-job training and use of prior experience. The role develops and revises manufacturing documentation such as SOPs, work instructions, training guides, and visual aids. It also involves gathering process information through interviews, job shadowing, and observation; translating technical information into accessible, visually supported procedures; developing photographs, videos, drawings, and diagrams with experts and engineering teams; and validating documents with operators and production staff. The writer follows document-control procedures, manages documents in relevant systems, supports regulatory and quality compliance, and ensures instructions identify necessary materials, safety equipment, and quality checkpoints. This position works in a manufacturing environment and may be assigned to different production areas as needed. Noise levels may range from quiet to loud. The work may involve oils and solvents, exposure to moving mechanical parts and fumes, and area-specific safety training. The employee generally works in a clean environment and helps maintain it. Optimax offers competitive compensation based on experience and benefits including monthly profit sharing, tuition assistance, medical, dental and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan with employer match, vacation and paid holidays, life insurance, disability insurance, and a health savings account. Employment is subject to export-control compliance requirements; applicants must be a U.S. Person under applicable regulations or eligible to obtain required authorizations.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Technical Writing, Communications, Engineering, or a related technical field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least 2 years of relevant experience in technical writing or process documentation; manufacturing or high-reliability electronics experience is preferred.
Exceptional ability to synthesize technical information and express it in clear, simple, user-friendly language.
Proficiency with document-creation software such as Microsoft Word and Excel, and content-visualization tools.
Strong verbal and written communication skills and ability to build effective relationships with cross-functional teams.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
Must be a U.S. Person under applicable export-control regulations or eligible to obtain required authorizations.
Ability to meet the stated physical demands, including frequent standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, talking, and hearing; prolonged sitting or standing; specified vision abilities; and hand-eye coordination and hand, arm, and finger dexterity.

Nice To Haves

Experience in the optics industry and with clean-room practices.
Experience with document management systems, manufacturing execution systems, and/or enterprise resource planning systems.
Manufacturing or high-reliability electronics experience.

Responsibilities

Write, review, and revise manufacturing documentation, including standard operating procedures, work instructions, training manuals and guides, and visual aids, charts, and diagrams.
Conduct structured interviews, job shadowing, and observation sessions with subject matter experts to gather process details, procedures, and best practices.
Translate complex information and expert knowledge into simple, accessible, graphically supported procedures for employees with different skill levels.
Work with experts and engineering teams to capture and develop photographs, videos, drawings, and diagrams for documentation.
Review and test draft documents with operators and production staff, validate accuracy and usability, and incorporate feedback to improve documentation.
Follow version-control procedures and manage documents in a manufacturing execution system, enterprise resource planning system, or other document-control system.
Ensure documentation meets applicable regulatory and quality standards, such as ISO and GMP.
Ensure documentation identifies operator resources, including required materials, safety equipment, and quality checkpoints.
Work in production areas as assigned and maintain the clean work environment.