Process Engineer - Optical Manufacturing

Domaille Engineering•Rochester, MN

2h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and standardizing polishing processes through structured experimentation, statistical analysis, and hands-on process development. This role will lead Design of Experiments (DOE) efforts to identify and control key process variables, improve repeatability, and establish validated operating procedures. This position supports both manufacturing and commercial teams by translating application and customer requirements into controlled, scalable process solutions. The engineer also supports lab-based development activities in collaboration with a Process Technician who assists with operational experimentation, data collection, and testing. This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which restricts access to export-controlled information to U.S. persons. A U.S. person is generally defined as a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or others specifically authorized under U.S. export regulations. General work authorization (e.g., work permit or EAD) or visa sponsorship does not meet ITAR requirements.

Requirements

Proficient in a Windows-based environment with advanced Microsoft Excel skills for data analysis, experimental tracking, and reporting of DOE results.
Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and production planning tools such as Global Shop.
Strong prioritization and organizational skills with the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced production environment.
Strong professionalism and effective written and oral communication, both internally and externally.
Strong problem solving and analytical skills.
Collaborate well cross-functionally with sales, product development, engineering, quality, and customers.
Demonstrate a hands-on, self-starting attitude with strong interpersonal and technical skills.
Possess a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Robotics, Materials, Chemical, Production Engineering, Physics, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and hands-on manufacturing/engineering experience.
Experience utilizing Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies to support process development, optimization, validation, and root cause analysis through statistical analysis and data-driven decision making.

Nice To Haves

Preferred experience operating, debugging, and working with electro-mechanical equipment used in fiber optic cable assembly, including polishing, curing, cleaving, and inspection with optical test equipment such as microscopes, interferometers, and signal testers.
Industry experience in fiber optic polishing, precision machining, or grinding processes involving materials such as glass, ceramics, optics, and metals is preferred.
Ability and willingness to travel regularly, approximately one week per month during the first year and potentially up to two weeks per month thereafter, including overnight air travel.

Responsibilities

Execute structured Design of Experiments (DOE) to identify and evaluate critical process variables impacting performance.
Develop statistically valid experimental plans for polishing applications across multiple iterations.
Perform statistical analysis (e.g., regression, ANOVA, response analysis) to identify key drivers of performance, repeatability, and quality.
Establish and validate optimal process operating windows and standardized process conditions.
Maintain a structured database of process conditions, experimental results, and validated parameters for reference and scalability.
Improve process consistency, yield, and performance through iterative experimentation and refinement.
Interface with Product Management and customers to understand application requirements and translate them into technical process parameters.
Support troubleshooting and root cause analysis for performance issues.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to expand internal expertise in process control.
Work in collaboration with a Process Technician to execute DOE plans, including sample preparation, testing, and data collection.
Ensure accurate documentation, repeatability, and adherence to experimental protocols.
Support effective lab operations to ensure timely execution of development work and experimental priorities.
Contribute to building deeper technical understanding of variables to improve process control and capability.