R&D Laser Process Engineer

Sitka Inc.; Flagstaff (AZ); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock Ownership Plan

Profit-sharing

Job summary

Gore is seeking an experienced Laser Process Engineer to join the Rapid Prototype Development group within the Metals R&D team at our Flagstaff facility. You will lead hands-on laser process development, run laser processes, and troubleshoot systems while developing new laser-based processes for high-precision metal implants and delivery components.

You will design experiments, create toolpaths, fabricate fixtures, and drive process optimization through data-driven approaches.

Qualifications

• BS in an applicable technical field (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, CS)
• Minimum 3 years of industrial manufacturing or R&D process support experience
• Minimum 2 years of SolidWorks CAD modeling for rapid fixture development
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software (SolidWorks, AlphaCAM, Aerotech CADFusion)
• Proficiency with statistical analysis software (JMP, Minitab)
• Experience with ISO quality systems and documenting reports
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to travel up to 10%
• Physical ability to lift up to 25 lbs and stand for extended periods

Responsibilities

• Operate laser, heat treatment, and electropolishing processes safely and efficiently
• Develop novel laser applications (cutting, ablation, welding) and specify laser sources and optics
• Design and execute DOE to map process window and optimize parameters
• Generate custom laser toolpaths using CAD/CAM and post-processing scripts
• Design fixtures and utilize 3D printing for prototype parts
• Verify specs with measurement systems (Gage R&R, bias, linearity)
• Create machine specs, process docs, and experiment plans; present results to peers/customers
• Build medical device proof-of-concept prototypes including material prep and post-processing
• Perform routine calibration, maintenance, and coordinate vendor support
• Maintain clean lab environment and manage lab resources for Rapid Prototype Development

Skills

Time management

Verbal communication

Emotional intelligence

Hands-on mechanical aptitude

Travel up to 10%

Education

Bachelor of Science in an applicable technical field

Tools

SolidWorks CAD

CAD/CAM software (AlphaCAM, Aerotech CADFusion)

JMP

Minitab

Job description

Category: Engineering, Scientists & Technicians

Experience Level: Experienced

Work Arrangement: On-site

Posting Start Date: 10/14/26

Posting End Date: 10/29/26

About the Role

We are looking for a Laser Process Engineer to join our Rapid Prototype Development group within the Metals R&D team. Servicing a broad range of Gore Medical customer teams, you will help deliver high-precision metal implant and delivery system components using state-of-the-art laser cutting, heat treatment, electropolishing, and automated inspection systems. You will initially engage in hands-on laser process development – ability to run laser processes, cut parts and troubleshoot systems, while also developing and improving new and existing laser-based processes through hands-on experimentation, prototype development, optical system design, automation, and data-driven process optimization. Long-term, you will be expected to engage in other aspects of process development for laser-cut metallic and non-metallic medical device components – from proof-of-concept prototypes to sustained manufacturing validation - planning, and coordinating engineering activities, capability studies, and root-cause investigations in support of standard production and new product development.

This role will be located at our facility in Flagstaff, Arizona .

Responsibilities

• Safely and efficiently operate state-of-the-art laser, heat treatment, and electropolishing processes.
• Develop novel laser applications (cutting, ablation, welding) and specify high-performance laser sources and optical delivery systems
• Design and execute complex Design of Experiments (DOE) to map the process window and optimize laser process parameters
• Generate custom laser processing toolpaths using CAD/CAM software and post processing scripts, including use of Aerotech CADFusion software.
• Design and fabricate custom fixtures to position complex prototype parts during laser processing and inspection, including the use of 3D printing technology
• Verify conformance to specifications and perform measurement system analysis (e.g., Gage R&R, bias, linearity) to ensure inspection reliability using appropriate inspection systems (e.g. Visicon, Nikon, Sensofar, tool scope, etc)
• Generate machine specifications, process documentation, experimental work plans, and manufacturing instructions. Deliver presentations on your work to peers and project customers.
• Perform all aspects of building medical device proof-of-concept prototypes, including material preparation, post processing steps (i.e. de-chipping, cleaning, packaging, etc.), and maintaining traceability.
• Perform routine calibration, daily system checks, and preventative maintenance on laser systems. Coordinate with equipment vendors for advanced maintenance needs.
• Maintain a clean and organized lab environment through active support of R&D Lab 6S principles. When needed, manage operations for the Rapid Prototype Development group, including scheduling of Metals R&D lab resources, tracking of appropriate metrics, and managing relationships with project team customers.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in an applicable technical field (e.g. Mechanical Engineer, Physics, Material Science, Computer Science, etc.)
• A minimum of 3 years of industrial manufacturing or R&D process support experience
• A minimum of 2 years experience with SolidWorks CAD modeling for rapid fixture development
• Proficiency using CAD/CAM software, such as SolidWorks, AlphaCAM, Aerotech CADFusion, or similar
• Proficiency using statistical analysis software, such as JMP, Minitab, etc
• Proficiency writing and implementing reports within an industry with ISO certified quality system
• Demonstrated history of providing excellent customer service through strong verbal communication and emotional intelligence
• Strong time management and organizational skills
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude with physical ability to: lift up to 25 lbs, stand for extended periods, and reach into an laser processing enclosure
• Ability to travel up to 10%

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced technical degree (Masters or PhD)
• Experience leading small technical teams

What We Offer

Our success is based on the capability and creativity of our Associates, and we are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive total rewards program that supports your everyday and helps you build your tomorrow.

• We provide benefits that offer choice and flexibility and promote overall well-being.
• And in keeping with our belief that every Associate should share in the collective success of the enterprise; we provide a distinctive Associate Stock Ownership Plan in each country as well as potential opportunities for "profit-sharing".
• Learn more at gore.com/careers/benefits

Gore is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, ancestry, age, status as a qualified individual with a disability, genetic information, pregnancy status, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, status as a protected veteran, gender identity and expression, and any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.

Gore is committed to a drug-free workplace. All employment is contingent upon successful completion of drug and background screening. Gore will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, e.g., arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable laws.

Gore requires all applicants to be eligible to work within the United States. Gore generally will not sponsor visas unless otherwise noted on the position description.

For over 65 years, Gore has improved lives through discovery, product innovation and rewarding careers for Associates. We push the boundaries of what's possible - not just through our products and technologies but also through individual growth and development.

We believe in the strength of a diverse and inclusive workplace. With diverse perspectives, ideas and experiences, we uncover new possibilities and make a greater impact in the world. Our Associates build on a rich history of innovation, upholding Gore's values and supporting an inclusive work environment where we treat each other and our external partners with fairness, dignity and respect.

Copyright 2025 W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.