PRINCIPAL OPTICAL ENGINEER
You will contribute to the research and development of the next generation of ultrafast laser systems and equipment based on solid-state and fiber technologies. Working within a multi-disciplinary team, you will support both the R&D and production teams in the development, assembly and test of custom picosecond and femtosecond prototypes. Along the product journey, you will use your problem-solving skills to deliver innovative solutions to ensure that we stay at the cutting edge of our industry and are able to help our customers develop the next generation of solutions. This role will involve some international travel to customers.
NKT Photonics is a dynamic, international high-tech company and a leader in the development, building and supply of high performance fiber lasers and photonic crystal fibers. We employ some of the best and most creative people in our industry and they have helped to make us one of the fastest growing and most innovative photonics companies in the World. At our facility in Switzerland, our expertise is the development and production of ultrafast solid-state lasers.
JOB OVERVIEW
Researches, designs, develops and manufactures prototype laser systems and equipment. Owning several laser projects concurrently. Ensures constant communication with related areas of the business supporting sales, customers, purchasing and manufacturing. Will oversee optical development from research/feasibility through to production release.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsible for coming up with new concepts and designs for laser systems, will drive initial feasibility of these ideas and evaluation for product development. Once selected working within a multi-disciplinary team will take the product from concept through to manufacture. Will be able to drive the solution of non-obvious problems related to product development via the design of suitable models and experimental studies. Works with engineering team to define and ensure correct controls, procedures and specifications are maintained. Considers customer requirements when designing concepts, manufacturing and testing new lasers. Define and maintain project plans, provide regular progress reports and disseminate information on new developments to the team. Ensures full documentation is created as required over the product development life cycle. Proactively works to secure cost-effective manufacturing solutions. Is responsible for ensuring delivery of effective solutions within given timeframes. Raising, responding to and implementing engineering change requests. Works to continuously improve product design, production and cost efficiency. Responsible for keeping up with scientific/technological developments along with changing market trends.
KEY INTERACTIONS
Senior engineering manager, engineering team, production team, product manager.
LEADERSHIP EXPECTATIONS
Manages the organisational people objectives. Responsible for implementing and managing organisational goals and objectives. Reports on progress of initiatives. Works with team and monitors performance to plan. Manages relationships professionally. Responsible for working collaboratively across different disciplines. Mentors less experienced engineers. May write or edit policy in specialist area. Can suggest and implement process improvements.
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
PhD in optics, physics or similar or an undergraduate degree in science or engineering with relevant experience.
SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED
Works collaboratively with engineering and project teams to drive and achieve solutions. Track record of designing innovative solutions to build effective products that meet customer requirements. Drives development of high quality products. Skilled at communicating with other engineering teams and team members. Excellent data analysis and problem solving skills. Experience of programming, modelling and statisical analysis. High level of attention to detail and commitment to quality and reliability. Excellent team player. Skilled user of Microsoft Office 365. Manages engineering projects or work packages. Strong organisational and time management skills. Ability to work on multiple concurrent activities. Experienced at mentoring less experienced engineers.
EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
PhD level degree or equivalent experience in a research environment in physics or natural sciences. High level of hands-on experience with free space laser optics and fibre optics. Specialist knowledge of the physics of fibre and/or bulk laser technology. Excellent understanding of optical, electronic and mechanical requirements for industrial reliability.
TRAVEL EXPECTATIONS
Up to 15 % annually, globally.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Fluent in English.
We embrace a culture in which a healthy work-life balance is encouraged; and we promote a positive, supportive working environment. To support our growth plans, we are investing in our facilities and rapidly enlarging our talented teams. We provide a great place to work with good people and exciting, industry leading products.
If we sound like the place you would like to work, please send your CV and a brief covering letter and we will be in contact soon.