Vapor Deposition Coating Specialist (Optical Coatings)

Job SummaryWe are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Vapor Deposition Coating Specialist with expertise in optical coatings to join our innovative manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for applying thin-film coatings onto optical components using advanced vapor deposition techniques. Your precision and technical knowledge will ensure the production of high-quality optical products that meet strict specifications. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work with cutting-edge coating technologies in a fast-paced, collaborative environment dedicated to excellence and continuous improvement. Production & Coating OperationsOperate physical vapor deposition systems (including aluminum, protected aluminum, dielectric, or enhanced coatings) for large-aperture mirrors and optical assemblies Prepare optics for coating, including cleaning, fixturing, masking, and loading Execute coating runs according to documented procedures and optical performance requirements Monitor deposition parameters including vacuum levels, rates, thickness, temperature, and uniformity Perform in-process and post-process inspections to verify coating quality, adhesion, reflectivity, and uniformity Support coating of one-off, prototype, and low-volume production optics with high repeatability expectations Equipment Ownership & MaintenanceOwn day-to-day health of coating systems, including vacuum chambers, pumps, power supplies, sources, and control systems Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on vacuum and deposition equipment Coordinate major maintenance, rebuilds, and upgrades with vendors when required Maintain spare parts, consumables, and preventive maintenance schedules Identify and correct root causes of equipment downtime or process drift Process Control & ImprovementMaintain and improve coating recipes, work instructions, and standard operating procedures Track and document process parameters, yields, and performance trends Drive improvements in coating uniformity, repeatability, throughput, and uptime Collaborate with engineering and optics teams on coating development and qualification Support failure analysis and corrective actions when coating issues arise Quality, Safety & ComplianceEnsure all coating processes meet internal quality standards and optical performance specifications Follow and enforce safety procedures related to high voltage, vacuum systems, chemicals, and hazardous materials Maintain accurate documentation, travelers, and inspection records Support audits, customer requirements, and continuous improvement initiatives Qualifications5+ years hands-on experience operating vapor deposition or vacuum coating systems Strong working knowledge of vacuum systems, pumps, gauges, and leak detection Familiarity with materials handling, fabrication techniques, and the use of precision measuring instruments. Basic math skills for measuring film thicknesses and adjusting process parameters accurately. Ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical, electrical, and process issues Comfortable working with high-value, large, and fragile optical components Strong documentation discipline and attention to detail Experience coating optical components, preferably mirrors or precision optics Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles to promote efficiency and waste reduction in production workflows. Prior warehouse experience or manufacturing background is highly desirable for adapting quickly to our operational environment. Join us as a Vapor Deposition Coating Specialist and become part of a dynamic team committed to producing world-class optical components! Your expertise will help drive innovation while ensuring the highest standards of quality in every product we deliver. Preferred QualificationsExperience with large-aperture optics (= 20 inches) Experience with aluminum and protected aluminum mirror coatings Familiarity with optical metrology such as reflectivity measurements and thickness monitoring Background in aerospace, space, defense, or scientific instrumentation manufacturing Experience supporting both production and R&D coating work Physical & Work Environment RequirementsAbility to lift and handle tooling and components within safety guidelines Ability to work around vacuum systems, high voltage equipment, and chemicals Willingness to support extended or off-shift coating runs when required Benefits:401(k) Dental insurance Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Profit sharing Relocation assistance Vision insurance Work LocationIn person