Process Engineer III
Shakopee, Minnesota, United States
Job Summary
Process Engineer III- is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining manufacturing processes for fiber‑optic components and assemblies. This role requires deep expertise in fiber preparation, polishing, termination, inspection, connectorization, splicing, and optical performance testing. The Engineer III will lead process development initiatives, support cross‑functional teams, and drive improvements in quality, yield, and manufacturing efficiency work
Key Responsibilities
Process Development & Optimization
- Identify, develop and implement manufacturing processes for fiber optic connector termination.
- Design and validate processes for fiber splicing, fusion operations, and optical alignment.
- Create specifications, work instructions, and control plans for all fiber‑optic processes.
- Lead DOE (Design of Experiments) and capability studies to improve yield and reduce process variation.
- Work in parallel in the project cycles with Automation Process teams, to develop new technology for Fiber optic
- Develop global process integration for new products
Manufacturing Support
- Provide advanced troubleshooting support for production related to polishing defects, insertion loss variability, back‑reflection issues, or contamination.
- Introduce new equipment such as polishers, interferometers, automated fiber cleavers, splicers, and optical test systems.
- Train technicians and engineers on new tools and processes.
Quality & Compliance
- Perform root‑cause analysis and corrective actions related to fiber‑optic manufacturing failures.
- Ensure compliance with applicable quality standards (e.g., IEC, Telcordia GR‑326, internal manufacturing specs).
- Maintain process documentation, including PFMEAs, control plans, work instructions, and qualification protocols.
Cross‑Functional Leadership
- Partner with R&D, Quality, Operations, and NPI teams to support product launches.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and statistical analysis.
- Lead technical reviews and mentor junior engineers in fiber‑optic technologies and best practices.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Optical, Manufacturing, or related field).
- Strong knowledge of optical materials, adhesives, epoxy curing, ferrules, and connector standards.
- Proficiency in Lean/Six Sigma, SPC, capability analysis, Manufacturing validation process (IQ, OQ and PQ) and developer of DOE’s.
- Ability to write clear documentation and train others.
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of work experience in the industry
- 2+ years of hands-on experience in fiber‑optic manufacturing processes, including:
- Fiber Optic process
- Knowledge of fiber connector
- Optical testing (IL, RL, geometry, end-face quality)
- Knowledge of Splicing process
- Process development and troubleshooting with strong Automation direction
- Experience with automated fiber‑optic equipment and high‑volume manufacturing.
- Familiarity with fiber optic cables (PM fiber, large-core, multi-fiber arrays).
- Experience leading cross‑functional engineering projects.
Key Competencies
- Strong problem‑solving and analytical abilities
- Hands‑on approach to manufacturing and testing
- Excellent communication and documentation skills
- Ability to mentor and lead technical teams
- Continuous improvement mindset
- Key contribution of automation and Innovation in Fiber optic process
The candidate will be rewarded with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, life and accidental death insurance, a 401(k) plan, and participation in the Company’s Incentive Plan. Candidates starting with the Company will be eligible for eleven paid holidays in a full calendar year, 10 days paid vacation (prorated based on start date), and other leave options.Salary Range: $88,000-$110,000
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