Optics Process Development Engineer

Scope of the role:

The 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, testing, and development of high precision special purpose machinery and test equipment at the Cranfield Precision site in Bedfordshire. This role will also require the Development Engineer to visit customer sites around the globe for machine installation, upgrades, process development, service and technical support.

Main duties and responsibilities:

• Process development for Cranfield Precision range of precision sample grinding machines.
• Process demonstration during machine acceptance protocol and verification tests at Cranfield and at customers’ facilities.
• Provide customer training for Cranfield’s range of grinding machines and software packages.
• 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, complete regular progress reports, timesheets and other documentation as required.
  • Maintain effective communication with all stakeholders.
  • Exhibit a positive image of Cranfield Precision and Fives Landis ltd.
  • Work with Cranfield Precision or Fives Landis ltd. personnel to develop practical ways to continuously improve the services provided for our customers.
• Assist with commissioning ultra-precision machine tools.
• Assist with set-up and axis compensation of ultra-precision machine tools.
• Assist with optical machine customers, process, aftermarket and upgrades requests.
• Any other reasonable tasks requested by managers or management.
• Work within our ISO9000-2008 quality system.

Key Skills Requirements:

• Relevant Engineering qualification in Mechanical or Optical disciplines, e.g. HNC/HND, C&G, BTEC, etc., or higher, or proven experience within the machine tool or optical manufacturing industry.
• Be able to operate CNC (computer numerical control systems) systems and a good understanding of machine G-code functionality.
• Dedicated and goal-focused professional with a solution-oriented approach.
• Strong communicator with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to excel both independently and within team settings.
• Ability to problem-solve and fault-find in a logical and methodical manner.
• Proficient with basic software packages, such as Outlook, Word and Excel.
• Holds a full UK driving licence and passport, with flexibility for travel to customer sites across the UK and overseas.
• Flexible and committed, with a willingness to work additional hours as needed and the ability to undertake extended international assignments of up to 6 weeks.

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 and optical abrasive grinding wheel technologies.
• Familiarity with Cranfield Precision OGM and TTG grinding machine range and customers.
• R&D set-ups and trials for precision optical grinding, such as:
  • Abrasive wheel principles, wheel dressing, balancing and mounting
  • Manufacture and set-up of optical sample mounts
  • Mechanical datums for optical alignment repeatability
• Familiar with CAD packages such as NX, SolidWorks or RhinoCAD or for component mount design.  

Benefits:

• 28 days paid Holiday plus 8 Bank Holidays per year.
• Flexi-time scheme to promote work-life balance.
• Healthshield healthcare and wellbeing.
• Life Assurance (5 x annual salary).
• Perkpal Benefits Platform.
• Enhanced Pension Scheme. Employer matched contributions of 4% or 5% (increasing to 6% or 7.5% after three years.)
• Paid Medical Appointment Time – 8 hours per year.