Vapor Deposition Coating Specialist (Optical Coatings)

Job Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Vapor Deposition Coating Specialist with expertise in optical coatings to join our innovative manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for applying thin-film coatings onto optical components using advanced vapor deposition techniques. Your precision and technical knowledge will ensure the production of high-quality optical products that meet strict specifications. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work with cutting-edge coating technologies in a fast-paced, collaborative environment dedicated to excellence and continuous improvement.

Production & Coating Operations

• Operate physical vapor deposition systems (including aluminum, protected aluminum, dielectric, or enhanced coatings) for large-aperture mirrors and optical assemblies

• Prepare optics for coating, including cleaning, fixturing, masking, and loading

• Execute coating runs according to documented procedures and optical performance requirements

• Monitor deposition parameters including vacuum levels, rates, thickness, temperature, and uniformity

• Perform in-process and post-process inspections to verify coating quality, adhesion, reflectivity, and uniformity

• Support coating of one-off, prototype, and low-volume production optics with high repeatability expectations

Equipment Ownership & Maintenance

• Own day-to-day health of coating systems, including vacuum chambers, pumps, power supplies, sources, and control systems

• Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on vacuum and deposition equipment

• Coordinate major maintenance, rebuilds, and upgrades with vendors when required

• Maintain spare parts, consumables, and preventive maintenance schedules

• Identify and correct root causes of equipment downtime or process drift

Process Control & Improvement

• Maintain and improve coating recipes, work instructions, and standard operating procedures

• Track and document process parameters, yields, and performance trends

• Drive improvements in coating uniformity, repeatability, throughput, and uptime

• Collaborate with engineering and optics teams on coating development and qualification

• Support failure analysis and corrective actions when coating issues arise

Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all coating processes meet internal quality standards and optical performance specifications

• Follow and enforce safety procedures related to high voltage, vacuum systems, chemicals, and hazardous materials

• Maintain accurate documentation, travelers, and inspection records

• Support audits, customer requirements, and continuous improvement initiatives

Qualifications

• 5+ years hands-on experience operating vapor deposition or vacuum coating systems

• Strong working knowledge of vacuum systems, pumps, gauges, and leak detection

• Familiarity with materials handling, fabrication techniques, and the use of precision measuring instruments.

• Basic math skills for measuring film thicknesses and adjusting process parameters accurately.

• Ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical, electrical, and process issues

• Comfortable working with high-value, large, and fragile optical components

• Strong documentation discipline and attention to detail

• Experience coating optical components, preferably mirrors or precision optics

• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles to promote efficiency and waste reduction in production workflows.

• Prior warehouse experience or manufacturing background is highly desirable for adapting quickly to our operational environment. Join us as a Vapor Deposition Coating Specialist and become part of a dynamic team committed to producing world-class optical components! Your expertise will help drive innovation while ensuring the highest standards of quality in every product we deliver.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with large-aperture optics (≥ 20 inches)

• Experience with aluminum and protected aluminum mirror coatings

• Familiarity with optical metrology such as reflectivity measurements and thickness monitoring

• Background in aerospace, space, defense, or scientific instrumentation manufacturing

• Experience supporting both production and R&D coating work

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to lift and handle tooling and components within safety guidelines

• Ability to work around vacuum systems, high voltage equipment, and chemicals

• Willingness to support extended or off-shift coating runs when required

Benefits:

• 401(k)

• Dental insurance

• Flexible spending account

• Health insurance

• Health savings account

• Life insurance

• Paid time off

• Profit sharing

• Relocation assistance

• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person