Crystal Growth Engineer

IPG Photonics; Marlborough (MA); On-site; USD 74,956 - 99,316; Full time

Job summary

A leading optics company in Marlborough, MA is seeking a Crystal Growth Engineer to develop and optimize melt-grown crystalline materials. The role involves leading projects, analyzing process conditions, and improving crystal growth systems. Ideal candidates will have an M.S. or Ph.D. in a relevant field with at least 3 years of experience in crystal growth or materials processing. The position offers a competitive salary range of $74,956 to $99,316 annually.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of direct experience in crystal growth or materials processing.
• Hands-on experience with melt crystal growth methods.
• Strong experience with characterization and metrology equipment.

Responsibilities

• Lead or support projects for optical and nonlinear optical materials.
• Develop and optimize growth processes for new and existing materials.
• Analyze process conditions affecting crystal quality and yield.

Skills

Czochralski crystal growth method

TSSG crystal growth method

Data analysis

Troubleshooting skills

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Education

M.S. or Ph.D. in a relevant technical field

Tools

High-purity raw materials

Thermal treatment equipment

Furnaces

Vacuum systems

Job description

Job Summary & Responsibilities

The Crystal Growth Engineer / Senior Crystal Growth Engineer develops, optimizes, and supports melt-grown crystalline materials and associated growth systems. Responsibilities include process development, troubleshooting, equipment improvement, material characterization, data analysis, and support of crystal growth operations for research and production activities.

The level of this role will be based on the selected candidate’s education, relevant experience, and technical capabilities.

Key Job Responsibilities

• Lead or support crystal growth development projects for optical and nonlinear optical materials.
• Design, build, modify, and improve crystal growth systems and supporting equipment.
• Develop and optimize growth processes for new and existing materials.
• Support production of nonlinear single crystals, including borate materials.
• Analyze process conditions and their effect on crystal quality, yield, and performance.
• Drive process improvements using experimental results and data analysis.
• Troubleshoot equipment and process issues and implement corrective actions.
• Support maintenance of furnaces, controls, and related equipment.
• Lead or support raw material preparation, solid‑state synthesis, and characterization activities.
• Prepare reports and communicate results to technical teams and management.

Preferred Qualifications

• M.S. or Ph.D. in a relevant technical field.
• At least 3 years of direct experience in crystal growth, materials processing, or related R&D work.
• Ph.D. with at least 1 year of postdoctoral or equivalent experience, or M.S. with at least 5 years of relevant experience.
• Hands‑on experience with melt crystal growth methods such as Czochralski, TSSG, Bridgman, or Kyropoulos.
• Strong experience and deep knowledge of Czochralski and/or TSSG methods for crystal growth techniques.
• Experience with high‑purity raw materials, thermal treatment, furnaces, and vacuum systems.
• Experience with crystal growth equipment development or modification.
• Experience with characterization and metrology equipment.
• Hands‑on knowledge of electrical, electronic, and mechanical systems.
• Experience with optical, laser, or nonlinear optical crystals.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced technical environment.

Pay Range

MA: $74,956 - $99,316