Manufacturing Process Engineer

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Materion is seeking a Manufacturing Process Engineer to join our rapidly growing Precision Optics and Thin Film Coatings team located in Westford, MA. This hands-on position is focused on the characterization, optimization, and continuous improvement of a diverse range of manufacturing processes for thin-film optics.

The Manufacturing Process Engineer will play a critical role in enhancing process efficiency, product quality, and operational effectiveness. This position requires a strong emphasis on data-driven decision-making, cross-functional collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to safety. The ideal candidate will leverage their expertise to drive innovative solutions and foster a culture of continuous improvement within the team.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Take ownership of assigned manufacturing processes, serving as the subject matter expert (SME) for specific processes. Lead initiatives to ensure the effective management, optimization, and continuous improvement of these processes, acting as the primary point of contact for all related inquiries and developments.

Conduct thorough analyses of manufacturing processes to identify performance metrics, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement. Develop and implement strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles.

Collaborate with production, quality assurance, and R&D teams to integrate innovative solutions and ensure alignment on process improvements. Facilitate effective communication to achieve common goals.

Mentor and train technicians and operators on optimized processes and best practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration within the team.

Prepare detailed reports on process performance, optimization efforts, and quality metrics. Collect, analyze, and summarize data to inform stakeholders and guide decision-making.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required, with degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience in engineering and process development.
• A minimum of 3 years of Engineering experience in manufacturing process development, optical coatings by PVD or similar technologies is preferred.
• Experience in a low volume / high mix product environment is an asset
• Exhibit sound interpersonal skills involving interfacing, coordinating and negotiating with company personnel at all levels, customers and suppliers
• Demonstrated ability in applying SPC, Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing skills in problem solving, statistics, manufacturing quality, and quality principles
• Ability to understand, analyze, and resolve complex technical problems
• Ability to work independently and efficiently in a fast-paced environment
• Exhibit excellent oral and written communication skills
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with SPC tools, DOE, and root cause analysis (e.g., 5-Whys, Fishbone).
• Track record of successful project management experience, leading multiple projects simultaneously
• Background in high-mix, low-volume production environments.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position requires the eligibility to obtain a security clearance. Non-US citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. For individuals to be considered for a security clearance, the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA), conducts personnel security background investigations for the Department of Defense and other federal agencies. More information about security clearances can be found on the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) website here: https://www.dcsa.mil/mc/pv/adjudications/

The selection of the person to be hired for this position is contingent on the candidate having export compliance eligibility for access to U.S. controlled technology which comes under the licensing jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of State, International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the U.S. Department of Commerce, Export Administration Regulations (EAR).

The candidate selected will have to qualify as either a U.S. citizen, a U.S. National, a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., a Person Admitted into the U.S. as an Asylee or Refugee., a National of a country that is not prohibited from having access to U.S. controlled technology (via a letter of assurance), or a Person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on Materion’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with Materion’s business requirements.

Materion Corporation and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) is an equal employment opportunity employer. It is the Company’s policy to not unlawfully discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also the Company’s policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions. The information collected by this application is solely to determine suitability for employment, verify identity and maintain employment statistics on applicants.

Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the terms of the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. A reasonable accommodation is a change in the way things are normally done which will ensure an equal employment opportunity without imposing undue hardship on the Company. Please inform the Company’s personnel representative if you need assistance completing any forms or to otherwise participate in the application process.

Materion’s Veteran Employee Resource group supports veterans and promotes the benefits of hiring veterans in the workplace. We honor all those who have served and are a military friendly company. Veterans are encouraged to apply and military experience and skills are transferrable to Materion careers.

Please provide complete information. An incomplete application may affect your consideration for employment.