Senior Optical Surface Manufacturing Engineer (f/m/x)

ZEISS Group; Aalen; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

ZEISS Group, through its XR division, seeks an experienced engineer to advance lens surfacing and precision optics manufacturing. You will develop processes for new materials and lens geometries, optimize tooling and parameters, and ensure quality standards are met.

Collaboration with suppliers, plus transfer from lab to scalable production, is essential. The role emphasizes data-driven optimization, hands-on work with grinding/polishing equipment, and documentation of process windows and SOPs

Qualifications

• Degree in production engineering, mechanical engineering or related field.
• Several years of professional experience in lens surfacing or precision optics manufacturing.
• Experience with optical quality standards, norms and inspection methods.
• Strong analytical skills and data-driven process optimization.
• Systematic approach to process development and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Process development for new materials, lens geometries and prototypes.
• Define and optimize tools and process parameters for lens generating (grinding, milling, turning).
• Develop and refine polishing processes to meet surface quality and form accuracy requirements.
• Specify and optimize edging and finishing processes for frame/mounting concepts.
• Collaborate with equipment suppliers on capability, upgrades and tests.
• Establish robust process windows and SOPs for repeatability and transfer to production.
• Support DFM/DFA reviews and implement feedback from production/quality.
• Evaluate new manufacturing technologies like additive manufacturing.

Skills

Lens surfacing

Precision optics

Process development

Data-driven optimization

Hands-on tooling

Education

Engineering degree (production/mechanical/precision)

Tools

Freeform generators

Polishers

Edgers

Job description

At ZEISS Extended Reality (XRX), a newly established global Strategic Business Unit in the scale-up phase, we are dedicated to innovation and excellence. Our goal is to deliver cutting-edge XR vision correction and optical systems to consumers around the world, ensuring we are the preferred partner in the XR market. We empower our customers and individuals with solutions that enhance productivity and change the way we work and live.

Your Role

• Process development for new materials, lens geometries and prototypes

• Define and optimize tools and process parameters for lens generating (grinding, milling, turning) for various plastic and mineral materials

• Develop and refine polishing processes (tooling, pads, slurry, pressure, cinematics) to meet surface quality and form accuracy requirements

• Specify and optimize edging and finishing processes (beveling, grooving, drilling) for different frame and mounting concepts

• Collaborate with equipment suppliers on process capability, hard- and software upgrades and acceptance tests

• Establish robust process windows and standard operating procedures to ensure quality, repeatability, yield and support a smooth transfer from lab/prototype stage into stable series production

• Support DFM / DFA reviews and implement feedback from production and quality

• Evaluate alternative manufacturing technologies like additive manufacturing

Your Profile

• Excellent university degree in production engineering, mechanical engineering, precision engineering or related field

• Several years of professional experience in lens surfacing or precision optics manufacturing in an industrial environment

• Practical knowledge of lens surfacing machinery (e.g. freeform generators, polishers, edgers) and associated process parameters

• Experience with optical quality standards, norms and inspection methods

• Strong analytical skills and experience with data-driven process optimization

• Systematic, structured approach to process development and documentation

• Ability to work hands-on with machines, tools and measurement equipment in a production or lab environment

Rooted in the ZEISS culture, we prioritize collaboration, integrity, ambition, and an entrepreneurial growth mindset, all supported by a commitment to continuous learning. We foster an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives and performance are valued and important to our success. Our teams are encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. At XRX, we offer competitive compensation packages and benefits, and ample opportunities for professional development. Join us and be part of a team that champions innovation, collaboration, and excellence.