Sr. Engineer, Compression Molding

Peak Nano Optics

We’re Rewriting the Rules

Nanotechnology can reset the bar for performance, but only if it makes it out of the lab. Peak Nano takes breakthrough nanolayered polymer technology from theory to the real world.

Peak Nano Optics is focused on developing LGRIN lenses based on nanolayer film technology.  These lenses serve a variety of applications in military, medical, and commercial markets.  The lenses made using Peak technology are 10X thinner and 80% lighter, while also providing better resolution, color, and field of view.

We are seeking an exceptional engineer to lead compression molding process development for the fabrication of Gradient Refractive Index Nanolayered (GRIN) polymer optics.  Reporting to the Engineering Manager in the Peak Nano Technology Development and Engineering organization, this highly technical engineer will operate between R&D and Manufacturing environments to model and improve existing capabilities in compression molding processes requiring optical tolerances.

 Performance Profile:

• Lead the development and refinement of high precision compression molding processes for the manufacture of GRIN polymer optics.
• Develop sufficient expertise to operate, maintain and troubleshoot all equipment and tooling related to the compression molding process. Write clear and detailed work instructions for technicians to execute experiments and fabricate prototype lens preforms.
• Utilize physics-based simulation tools supported by real-world data to develop and validate rheological models of GRIN materials with functionally graded mechanical properties. Leverage these models to improve process capability, closing the gap between as-designed and as-manufactured performance.
• Develop a detailed understanding of the design, manufacturing methods and metrology equipment used to fabricate and evaluate GRIN lenses. Identify continuous improvement opportunities and contribute to solving technical challenges as a member of a cross-functional technical team.
• Collaborate with the Peak Nano optical design team to correlate optical performance with manufacturing process variables and tolerances.
• Design and commission compression molding tooling to accommodate new customer prototypes and process development efforts. Create 3D models and prints to support tool fabrication and metrology activities as needed.
• Develop custom instrumentation and/or software tools as needed to evaluate process capability or execute experiments.
• Use data analysis tools and presentation tools to efficiently communicate experimental design, results, and conclusions to internal cross-functional technical teams. Contribute to Peak Nano’s fundamental understanding of GRIN lens fabrication processes with detailed, organized documentation of experiments.
• Understand and implement appropriate EH&S standards, policies, and procedures applicable to operation of forming equipment. Promote safe work habits and lead by example in compliance with EH&S standards.

• This position requires a well-rounded skillset including technical ability, fabrication process development skills, plastics processing expertise, physics-based simulation experience, excellent communication and a strong sense of project and process ownership.
• The ideal candidate should view themselves as both a scientist and an engineer, driven to develop a complete understanding of a process or system then apply that knowledge to support prototyping efforts and manufacturing scale-up. A self-motivated, disciplined, detail-oriented approach to experiment design, observation and data analysis is critical to success in this role.
• The ideal candidate has an advanced degree in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, plastics engineering, materials science, physics, or equivalent training.
• The ideal candidate has relevant work or research experience in the following areas:
  • Process development in plastics processes: 3+ years (preferred)
  • Physics-based simulation of plastics processes as a core job function: 1+ year (preferred)
    • Special consideration: Modelling rheology of functionally graded materials (FGM)
  • Plastics processing tool design and prototyping: 1+ year (preferred)
  • Experimental design, statistical analysis and/or programming as a core job function: 1+ year (preferred)
  • High Precision or Ultra-Precision academic or manufacturing environment: 1+ year (preferred)

Relevant Software Competencies:

• 3D CAD (SolidWorks preferred)
• Physics-based Simulation (COMSOL, ANSYS, ABAQUS, or equivalent)
• Data Analysis (MATLAB, Python, JMP, Minitab or equivalent)
• Instrumentation & Data Acquisition (LabVIEW, Flexlogger, DAQExpress or equivalent)
• Data Reporting & Presentations (MS PowerPoint preferred)

Education:

• MS or Ph.D in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Plastic Engineering, Materials Science, or Physics

Proof of COVID Vaccination per Executive Order 14042 for government contractors