Optical Manufacturing Engineer

ABOUT US
G&H is a world leader in optical designing, testing and manufacturing. As experts in the technology of light, G&H works with customers to provide optical systems, assemblies, and components for demanding applications.

Headquartered in Ilminster Somerset, UK with primary operations in the USA and Europe, G&H is recognized for the breadth of their acousto-optic, electro-optic, crystal-optic, fiber optic, and precision optic products. G&H is recognized as the preferred source for OEMs in the life sciences, industrial, and aerospace and defense industries, with a history of quality and excellence that dates back over seventy-five years.

THE ROLE

We are seeking an Optical Manufacturing Engineer to lead the fabrication and optimization of high-precision optical components used in photonics and laser systems. This role combines deep technical expertise with process ownership, ensuring optical components meet stringent performance and quality standards.

The Optical Manufacturing Engineer serves as the technical authority for polishing processes, driving continuous improvement, troubleshooting complex fabrication challenges, and guiding less experienced team members.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Own and optimize optical polishing and fabrication processes for complex components (e.g., prisms, laser optics, crystals)
• Develop and refine polishing methods, tooling approaches, and process parameters for various materials
• Interpret optical specifications (surface figure, flatness, scratch/dig, etc.) and ensure adherence
• Perform advanced metrology and analyze results (interferometry, profilometry, etc.) to validate outcomes
• Troubleshoot process issues and implement corrective actions to improve yield and performance
• Partner with engineering on new product introduction (NPI), feasibility, and process development
• Establish best practices, work instructions, and process controls
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to Optical Polishers and junior technicians
• Ensure compliance with quality, cleanliness, and handling standards for high-precision optics

QUALIFICATIONS

• 5 - 10+ years of experience in optical fabrication, polishing, or precision manufacturing
• Deep expertise in polishing techniques (pitch, loose abrasive, CNC, etc.)
• Strong understanding of optical materials and their behaviors
• Advanced ability to interpret optical drawings and tolerances
• Experience with optical metrology and surface characterization

ADDITIONAL NOTES
This job description is not intended to be exhaustive in every respect, but rather to clearly define the fundamental purpose, responsibilities and dimensions for the role. Therefore, this job description does not describe any individual role holder. In addition to the contents of this job description, employees are expected to undertake all other reasonable and related tasks allocated by their line manager.

The Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. The Company does not discriminate in employment opportunity or practices on the grounds of gender, race, religion or belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by national laws under which the Company operates.

Please note that this position will involve having access to items and technical data that may be controlled under U.S. export laws and regulations ("U.S. Export Control Laws"), including but not limited to the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR") and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ("ITAR"). To comply with the U.S. Export Control Laws, G&H must assess whether candidates are "U.S. persons" as defined under the EAR (15 C.F.R. Part 772) and the ITAR (22 C.F.R. 120.15). Certain questions asked during the application process are intended to assess this and will be used for compliance purposes only.