Senior Thin Film Coating Engineer

Job DescriptionJob Description

Title

Senior Thin Film Coating Engineer

Department

Coating

Reports to

Coating Manager

SEE YOUR CAREER THROUGH A NEW LENS WITH RPO!

RPO is a global leader in precision optics, optical components, and optical assemblies. We specialize in a full spectrum of products & services including – Design and Engineering, Systems Integration, Lens Assembly, Visible and Infrared Components, Glass and Plastic Molded Aspheres, and Thin Film Coating. As one of the fastest growing companies in the Rochester area, RPO offers exciting career paths to work on market-leading programs across a variety of industries.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly experienced and innovative Senior Thin Film Coating Engineer to lead the design, development, and optimization of advanced optical coatings for precision optics applications. This role is pivotal in supporting high-performance imaging systems, spectroscopy, aerospace, defense, and semiconductor technologies. This is an excellent opportunity for an energetic, forward-thinking individual to work in a fun, fast-paced environment.

You Will:

• Design and optimize complex thin film coatings (e.g., AR, beam splitters, bandpass filters) using industry-standard software (TFCalc, Macleod, FilmStar).

• Lead development of coating processes using PVD technologies including magnetron sputtering, ion beam sputtering, and electron beam evaporation.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate customer specifications into manufacturable coating solutions.

• Perform spectral and interferometric measurements using spectrophotometers and other metrology tools.

• Develop and maintain process documentation including FMEA, control plans, and PPAPs.

• Troubleshoot coating defects and implement root cause corrective actions.

• Mentor junior engineers and technicians; provide technical leadership across coating operations.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives using Six Sigma, SPC, and Lean methodologies.

• Interface with customers to present technical solutions and ensure product compliance.

• Participate in Material Review Board (MRB) activities and disposition of discrepant materials.

You Have:

• Bachelor of Science in Optical, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering, or alternatively a Bachelor of Science in Physics.

• 8–10 years of experience in optical thin film coating design and manufacturing.

• Deep understanding of high vacuum systems, deposition physics, and thin film characterization.

• Proficiency in coating design software and optical simulation tools.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to manage multiple complex projects.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

• Experience in low-volume, high-mix production environments is a plus.

• Familiar with optical testing such as spectrophotometry, stress measurements, environmental testing and laser damage.
• Excellent computer skills – Email, MS Word, MS Excel, ERP system
• Experience reading and interpreting technical drawings and engineering specs
• Proficiency in optical thin film deposition, optical monitoring, high vacuum technology, optical measurements, process controls and management.
• Familiarity with most optical coating materials and their domain of application

You Are:

• Results-Oriented: Motivated, hard-working and ready to level-up;
• Curious: You never stop learning and have an insatiable desire to gain new skills and knowledge;
• Process Oriented: Well organized, demonstrating attention to detail;
• Analytical: Possess a “If there’s a problem, I’ll find a solution” attitude;
• Accountable: Demanding the highest quality from yourself and team members;
• Detail-Oriented: Have excellent time management and organizational skills;
• A Team Player: Reliable, collaborative, flexible with a positive ‘get things done’ attitude;
• A U.S. Person: Compliant with ITAR, EAR and other laws and regulations as defined: “U.S. , lawful permanent ("Green Card" holders), persons granted refugee status or asylum status in the United States, or temporary granted amnesty.”

You Will Enjoy:

• Growth: The opportunity to learn and advance your career;
• Wealth: Competitive compensation package linked to your experience and performance, a 401(k) with company match;
• Wellness: Health, dental, vision & life insurance;
• Balance: 11 paid holidays, generous paid vacation and sick -time;
• Culture: an energetic, caring, fun, value-driven team.

Environment & Physical Demands:

• Professional office environment with routine use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, copiers, filing cabinets and fax machine; noise level typical of a standard office environment
• Prolonged sitting, computer and telephone use, as well as standing, filing, bending, reaching and lifting and carrying up to 15 pounds
• Occasional exposure to manufacturing plant floor requiring the use of personal protective equipment (ear plugs, safety glasses, etc.)
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Disclaimer:

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Rochester Precision Optics is committed to leveraging the talent of a diverse workforce to create great opportunities for our business and our people.

EOE/AA/Minority/Female//Veteran

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify and eligibility to work in the United States, and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.