Attalon / Location Overview
Join Attalon, a global innovator in advanced optical technologies supporting aerospace, defense, and scientific research. Our Richmond facility is home to world‑class engineering talent and state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing capabilities. Here, you’ll help build optical systems that empower breakthrough missions and cutting‑edge discoveries.
Job Title
Senior Optical Manufacturing Engineer
Job Details
Attalon is seeking a highly skilled Senior Optical Manufacturing Engineer to drive the next generation of precision optical manufacturing. In this role, you will shape the processes behind mission‑critical lenses, mirrors, telescopes, and optical assemblies used in advanced aerospace and defense applications. You’ll lead the transition of innovative designs from concept to production, optimize performance on the factory floor, and play a central role in ensuring Attalon delivers unmatched quality and reliability.
If you’re energized by complex challenges, cross‑functional collaboration, and opportunities to influence manufacturing strategy, this is a role where you can make a significant impact.
• Develop, optimize, and standardize manufacturing processes for optical components, assemblies, and telescope systems
• Lead manufacturability reviews, feasibility studies, and process validations for new optical designs
• Design and implement fixtures, tooling, and equipment to support precision optical fabrication and assembly
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and quality teams to transition new products into scalable production
• Apply SPC methods to improve yield, efficiency, and overall manufacturing performance
• Review customer requirements and provide design‑based solutions to meet application needs
• Mentor engineers and production staff while driving continuous improvement across processes and workflows
• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions
• Support development of inspection and testing protocols and stay current with emerging optical manufacturing technologies
Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in optical manufacturing
• Strong understanding of optical design principles and manufacturing processes
• Knowledge of fabrication techniques for spheres, aspheres, and diamond‑turned optics
• Hands‑on experience with optical metrology tools
• Experience with process optimization, statistical analysis, and quality methodologies
• Proven ability to lead engineering projects and cross‑functional teams
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with SolidWorks for tooling and fixture design
• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO 9001, or similar quality systems
• Experience with CUI, ITAR, or EAR‑controlled projects
• Strong communication, problem‑solving, and attention to detail
• Ability to support hands‑on prototype builds and production transfers
• Customer‑focused and accountable in delivering engineering solutions
For California, the base pay range for this role is $91,625.00-$156,600.00
This range is provided as a general guideline. When determining an offer, Attalon considers multiple factors, including job responsibilities, relevant experience, education and training, specialized skills, and current market conditions.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Attalon, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Export Control Compliance
This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export licenseSkills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
- 5+ years of experience in optical manufacturing
- Strong understanding of optical design principles and manufacturing processes
- Knowledge of fabrication techniques for spheres, aspheres, and diamond-turned optics
- Hands-on experience with optical metrology tools
- Experience with process optimization, statistical analysis, and quality methodologies
- Ability to lead engineering projects and cross-functional teams
- Experience with SolidWorks for tooling and fixture design
- Familiarity with AS9100, ISO 9001, or similar quality systems
- Experience with CUI, ITAR, or EAR-controlled projects
- Strong communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail
- Ability to support hands-on prototype builds and production transfers
- Customer-focused and accountable in delivering engineering solutions
What We Do
Attalon is a leading technology partner to the global aerospace and defense industry, specializing in the physics of light and heat. With over 500 employees in the U.S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high-energy directed laser systems to satellite optics and hypersonic thermal protection, Attalon equips the warfighter with the advantage of precision.
