MPI is looking for an Optics Process Development Engineer, on a permanent basis, for our client based in Kempston, Bedford

Permanent, full-time role
37 hours per week
28 days of holiday, plus bank holiday

Scope of the role:

The Optics Process Development Engineer will work as part of a multi-skilled team and be responsible for a wide range of tasks in the optical process development area. This includes testing and the development of high precision special purpose machinery and test equipment at the Client’s site in Bedfordshire. This role will also require the Development Engineer to visit customer sites around the globe for machine installation, upgrades, process development and service technical support.

Main duties and responsibilities:

• Process development for Client’s range of precision component grinding machines.
• Process during machine pass off/verification tests at and on site at customers’ facilities.
• Provide customer training for Client’s 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.
• Assist with commissioning ultra-precision machine tools.
• Assist with set-up and error correction of ultra-precision machine tools.
• Assist with optical machine customers’ aftermarket requests and upgrades.
• Work within our ISO9000-2008 quality system
• Understand, and work at all times in line with Client’s Values and Directives; specifically following the highest standards of health and safety.
• Carry out any other reasonable duties as requested.

Qualifications:

• Relevant Engineering qualification in a Mechanical or Optical discipline, e.g. HNC/HND, C&G, BTEC, etc., or higher, 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.
• Ability to problem-solve and fault-find in a logical and methodical manner.
• Proficient with basic software packages, such as Outlook, Word and Excel.
• Full driving licence and passport to enable travel to customer sites - UK and overseas.
• Willingness to work additional hours as required by the customer and the ability to work outside the UK for prolonged periods (e.g. up to 6 weeks) if required.
• 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 the use of micron, nanometer, wavelength and arc second data.
• Understanding of on-board machine metrology systems.
• Understanding of machine calibration methods and adjustments (e.g. laser alignment, talyvels, straight edges, etc.).

Desirable Knowledge:

Familiarity with:

• precision optical manufacturing and optical lens systems;
• optical metrology instruments;
• optical grinding wheel technologies;
• R&D set-ups and trials for precision optical grinding, such as:
• Grinding wheel mounting;
• Manufacture and set-up of component mounts;
• Mechanical datums for optical alignment repeatability;
• Familiar with CAD packages such as SolidWorks, RhinoCAD or NX for component mount design.