Principal Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Onto Innovation•Bloomington, MN

15d

About The Position

Onto Innovation is a leader in process control, combining global scale with an expanded portfolio of leading-edge technologies that include: 3D metrology spanning the chip from nanometer-scale transistors to micron-level die-interconnects; macro defect inspection of wafers and packages; metal interconnect composition; factory analytics; and lithography for advanced semiconductor packaging. Our breadth of offerings across the entire semiconductor value chain helps our customers solve their most difficult yield, device performance, quality, and reliability issues. Onto Innovation strives to optimize customers’ critical path of progress by making them smarter, faster and more efficient. Job Summary & Responsibilities Create and implement manufacturing process plans, alignment, and calibration procedures in support of existing and new optical/laser products. Support engineering and manufacturing teams in the assembly and testing of optical subassemblies and systems for wafer inspection/metrology equipment. Collaborate with domestic and international teams—including Manufacturing, Engineering, Purchasing, and Suppliers—to resolve issues related to manufacturing processes, documentation, and components. Provide advanced technical support for troubleshooting complex optical system issues and implement effective corrective actions. Identify and qualify replacements for end-of-life components such as lasers and lenses. Design and execute tests to validate the performance of substitute parts. Design and implement incoming inspection protocols for lasers and optics, including automated data collection and analysis tools. Develop software for data visualization and reporting. Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and 8D problem-solving processes. Support internal and external quality assurance and corrective action efforts. Drive cost reduction initiatives by improving labor efficiency, material usage, and overall production quality. Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally (average 5–15%).

Requirements

Master’s degree in applied physics or a related field (e.g., Engineering, Physics, Optical Systems).
10+ years of relevant experience.
Proficient in interpreting scientific and technical documentation, schematics, and engineering drawings.
Strong troubleshooting skills in mechanical/electrical systems, laser systems (including power stability and beam profiling), imaging systems, and light engines.
Proven ability to collaborate with manufacturing, engineering, and operations teams.
Effective communication skills for interacting with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
Skilled in Microsoft Office and CAD software (preferably CREO or SolidWorks).

Nice To Haves

Programming experience (C# preferred) is a plus.
Experience in biotech, semiconductor, or metrology industries is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Create and implement manufacturing process plans, alignment, and calibration procedures in support of existing and new optical/laser products.
Support engineering and manufacturing teams in the assembly and testing of optical subassemblies and systems for wafer inspection/metrology equipment.
Collaborate with domestic and international teams—including Manufacturing, Engineering, Purchasing, and Suppliers—to resolve issues related to manufacturing processes, documentation, and components.
Provide advanced technical support for troubleshooting complex optical system issues and implement effective corrective actions.
Identify and qualify replacements for end-of-life components such as lasers and lenses.
Design and execute tests to validate the performance of substitute parts.
Design and implement incoming inspection protocols for lasers and optics, including automated data collection and analysis tools.
Develop software for data visualization and reporting.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and 8D problem-solving processes.
Support internal and external quality assurance and corrective action efforts.
Drive cost reduction initiatives by improving labor efficiency, material usage, and overall production quality.
Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally (average 5–15%).