Lead Optical Coating Engineer - Marlborough, MA

IPG Photonics; Marlborough (MA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

IPG Photonics in Marlborough, MA, is seeking a Senior Optical Coating Engineer to lead development of new optical coatings and optimize vacuum coating processes at our state-of-the-art facility. You will apply hands-on experience with thin-film deposition and coating systems across UV to near-IR ranges.

The role requires collaboration with R&D and production teams, evaluating coatings, designing workflows, and ensuring production readiness while advancing technology in thin-film metrology and

Qualifications

• BS in Science or Engineering, preferably Thin Films, Optics, or related field.
• Experience with thin-film deposition technologies and vacuum systems.
• Experience with UV to IR optical coatings and metrology.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to and support the optical coating development program.
• Identify and address critical technical issues impacting program success.
• Provide input into technology choices and support coating operations.
• Evaluate progress to ensure products meet goals and enable continuous improvement.
• Develop coating designs and production protocols.
• Monitor process metrics and ensure traceability.
• Communicate progress to stakeholders including R&D and production teams.
• Demonstrate accountability for assigned activities.

Skills

Strong communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Project prioritization

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Science or Engineering (Thin Films/Optics preferred)

Tools

Electron Beam

Ion Beam Sputtering

Ion-Assisted Deposition

Vacuum Equipment Operation

Thin-Film Metrology

Job description

IPG Photonics is revolutionizing the laser industry as the pioneering developer and leading producer of fiber lasers and amplifiers. Headquartered in Marlborough, MA, IPG has over 4,800 employees in more than 30 locations around the world. We aspire to work together with our employees and customers to apply light in ways that improve life.

Our mission is to develop innovative laser solutions to make the world a better place. To accomplish this mission, we are committed to attracting and retaining the best talent and an engaged and thriving workforce that drives a sustainable future for our company and society.

Working at IPG Photonics you can expect challenging projects, a motivating and friendly environment, and competitive benefits.

Senior Optical Coating Engineer will lead efforts to develop new optical products and introduce critical processes at our state-of-the-art optical coating facility; provide expert-level support for resolving critical issues. The company seeks a candidate with deep expertise in thin film optical coating, including vacuum coating equipment and technologies. The ideal candidate will have hands‑on experience with optical coating systems, including operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The candidate should be able to develop and implement new optical coatings, as well as design and evaluate all types of thin film coatings for VUV, DUV, UV, visible and near IR spectral ranges. The role will require the collaboration with key decision‑makers to coordinate efforts across different groups and ensure ongoing technological advancements. As well, oversee established production processes and facilitate future development.

Key Job Responsibilities

• Contribute to and support the company's optical coating development program.
• Identify and address critical technical issues that impact program success, evaluate future concepts, and implement solutions aligned with company objectives.
• Provide technical input into technology choices and support the development of efficient optical coating operations.
• Evaluate development progress to help ensure new products meet program goals and support continuous improvement.
• Develop and implement coating designs, workflow controls, and production protocols.
• Monitor and report development process metrics and SPC data and support database traceability.
• Communicate development progress through reports and presentations to internal and external stakeholders, including R&D activities, technical challenges, and upcoming priorities.
• Demonstrate accountability for assigned technical activities and contribute to the overall success of the group.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Science or Engineering, preferably with a concentration in Thin Films, Optics, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge and hands‑on experience with Electron Beam, Ion Beam Sputtering, and Ion‑Assisted optical thin‑film deposition technologies, along with a broad understanding of vacuum equipment operation.
• Strong knowledge of thin‑film theory, modeling software, and optical coating design concepts.
• Strong knowledge of optical and coating materials, with experience in cleanroom operations, optics handling, cleaning, and contamination control, including UV applications.
• Extensive experience in optical coating design and development of processes for laser optics.
• Experience with deep UV and vacuum UV coatings.
• Strong knowledge and experience in optical thin‑film metrology.
• Proven ability to manage multiple technical assignments and effectively organize and prioritize workloads.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across broader company projects and cross‑functional teams.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• 10+ years of direct industry experience in optical coating.