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Job Title: Optics Process Development Engineer
Location: Bedfordshire, UK
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Job Role: Metalis are working with a highly respected company that specialises in the design and manufacture of ultra-precision machine tools and systems. The Optics Process Development Engineer will work as part of a multi-skilled team responsible for a wide range of tasks in optical process development. This includes testing and developing high precision special purpose machinery and test equipment. The role also requires global travel to customer sites for machine installation, upgrades, process development, and service technical support.
Main Duties and Responsibilities:
* Develop processes for the companies range of precision component grinding machines.
* Conduct machine pass-off/verification tests at the company and on-site at customers' facilities.
* Provide customer training for their range of grinding machines.
* Deliver new machine build and R&D projects in line with the schedule.
* Liaise effectively with project teams on a technical level.
* When at customer sites:
o Complete regular site reports/visit reports, timesheets, and other documentation as required.
o Maintain effective communication with all stakeholders.
o Exhibit a positive image of the company.
o Collaborate with staff to continuously improve the services provided for our customers.
* Assist with commissioning ultra-precision machine tools.
* Assist with setup and error correction of ultra-precision machine tools.
* Assist with optical machine customers' aftermarket requests and upgrades.
* Work within our ISO(Apply online only) quality system.
* Adhere to the companies Values and Directives, maintaining the highest standards of health and safety.
* Perform any other reasonable duties as requested.
Key Skills and Requirements:
* Relevant Engineering qualification in a Mechanical or Optical discipline (e.g., HNC/HND, C&G, BTEC) or proven experience within the machine tool industry.
* Self-driven individual with a 'can-do' attitude.
* Effective communicator.
* Ability to work alone or as part of a team.
* Logical and methodical problem-solving and fault-finding skills.
* Proficient with basic software packages such as Outlook, Word, and Excel.
* Full driving licence and passport for travel to customer sites in the UK and overseas.
* Willingness to work additional hours as required by the customer and ability to work outside the UK for prolonged periods (e.g., up to 6 weeks).
* Able to manage own time and meet tight deadlines.
Specialist Skills:
* Ability to read, understand, interpret, and manufacture from optical, mechanical component, and electrical drawings. * Understanding of optical metrology systems such as Taylor Hobson PGI optics, white light interferometry, and CMM systems.
* Understanding of ultra-precision machine tools and systems, with confidence in using micron, nanometer, wavelength, and arc second data.
* Understanding of on-board machine metrology systems.
* Knowledge of machine calibration methods and adjustments (e.g., laser alignment, talyvels, straight edges, etc.).
Desirable Knowledge:
* Familiarity with:
o Precision optical manufacturing and optical lens systems.
o Optical metrology instruments.
o Optical grinding wheel technologies.
o Precision OGM and TTG grinding machine range and customers.
* Experience with R&D setups and trials for precision optical grinding, including:
o Grinding wheel mounting.
o Manufacture and setup of component mounts.
o Mechanical datums for optical alignment repeatability.
* Familiarity with CAD packages such as SolidWorks, RhinoCAD, or NX for component mount design.
Salary: 45,000 - 55,000 DOE
Job Type: Full time, Permanent
Hours: Days
