R&D Electroforming Technician - Optical & Tooling (1st Shift)

Avery Dennison

Niles (IL)

On-site

USD 21,000 - 33,000

Full time

14 days+

Application generator

Turn this role into an interview — a resume and cover letter built around what this employer wants.

Get past ATS filters

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness benefits starting on

Paid parental leave

401K eligibility

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Paid vacation

Paid holidays

Job summary

Avery Dennison is seeking an R&D Technician to join our Reflective Solutions team in NorthAmerica. You will lead electroforming operations and support optical and laser tooling developments, working with experienced engineers to drive tooling scale-up and continuous improvement.

Based in Niles, IL, you will report to the Electroplating Manager. The ideal candidate has hands-on aptitude, technical problem-solving skills, creativity, and strong attention to detail, with a background in chemistry

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required; an associate degree or technical certificate in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related technical field is strongly preferred.
2–3 years of hands-on experience in nickel electroforming or electroplating preferred.
Proven practical experience in substrate preparation, cleaning, and surface treatment processes.
Strong attention to detail and high standards for product quality.
Experience with anodizing, PVD, e-coating, electropolishing, or related surface finishing technology is a plus.
Basic knowledge of chemistry and mathematics.
Proficiency with Google Workspace and Microsoft Excel.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
High reliability with punctuality and deadlines.
Strong interpersonal skills and teamwork ability.
Ability to safely lift up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

Maintain R&D electroforming tanks, including chemical maintenance, anode adds, and filter changes to ensure process stability.
Perform plating bath analysis and stress measurements to maintain high product quality.
Prepare, clean, and inspect optical parts/substrates prior to electroforming.
Set up, operate, and monitor electroforming processes.
Identify, report, and troubleshoot routine issues in electroplating workflows.
Separate, clean, and thoroughly inspect finished parts following electroforming.
Collect and document accurate test data using calibrated analytical equipment.
Collaborate with the R&D team to deliver high-quality optical parts within project timelines.
Work with cross-functional R&D engineers, technicians, and team members.
Assist with operational tasks in tooling production and broader R&D department as needed.