New Product Introduction Project Engineer III

Edmund Optics, an industry leader in the design, manufacturing, and sale of precision optics and optical components for over 80 years is hiring! As a global, family-owned company, employees are key to our success. Our culture is at the heart of everything we do, and the company's Core Values demonstrate our commitment to act as one family, do what is best for the customer, drive innovation through continuous improvement, and to be proud of what we do. As we work to continue to be technological leaders in the industry, we seek those who are prepared to learn, engage, grow, and enable the future through optics.

Brief Summary:

A NPI (New Product Introduction) Project Engineer, Level III is responsible for supporting and executing the transition of new products from design concept to prototype and from prototype to full-scale production. This role works at the intersection of engineering design, manufacturing, and project coordination to ensure that new product development activities are effectively transferred into robust, documented, repeatable production processes. The NPI Project Engineer, Level III collaborates closely with Design Engineering, Advanced Programs, and Manufacturing to define processes, develop tooling and fixtures, deploy assembly and test solutions, and generate necessary documentation. This position ensures a smooth, efficient, and scalable product launch by applying strong engineering fundamentals, process development skills, and cross-functional communication abilities. In addition, they contribute to the growth of the NPI Project Engineering group and regularly participate with the training, development, and mentorship of earlier career NPI Project Engineers.

Lead and coordinate NPI transfer activities including design to prototype and prototype to production transitions, ensuring alignment on requirements, documentation, timelines, risks, and deliverables
• Interface with Design Engineering, Manufacturing, Advanced Programs, and Project Management teams to define assembly methods, testing strategies, and process controls for new product builds
• Develop and implement assembly processes, including defining process steps, determining equipment needs, and validating process stability, repeatability, and scalability
• Support the design of assembly and test fixtures, including precision mechanical, optical, or electromechanical tooling needed for prototype and production builds
• Assist in implementation of metrology, inspection, and verification methods for new products
• Generate and maintain documentation including work instructions, assembly and test instructions, and supporting manufacturability documentation
• Support prototype builds by providing engineering oversight, resolving build issues, coordinating testing, and capturing lessons learned for production readiness
• Collaborate with production teams and suppliers to troubleshoot manufacturing challenges and ensure smooth readiness for production scaling
• Participate in continuous improvement activities using LEAN or Six Sigma methodologies to optimize processes and reduce manufacturing variation prior to production transition
• Regularly participate in internal training, development, and mentorship of earlier career NPI Project Engineers
• Comply with federal, state, and company policies, procedures, and regulations

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (green card holder)
• Strong understanding of mechanical and/or opto-mechanical assembly processes, including interpretation of engineering drawings and GD&T
• Strong proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) for reviewing fixtures, tooling, or component models
• Flexible with strong ability to conform to shifting priorities, demands, and timelines through analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Strong understanding of assembly documentation, prints, work orders, and work instructions
• Ability to think critically and solve complex problems in fast-paced development environments
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for cross-functional coordination and technical discussions with customers, suppliers and various levels of technical staff
• Working knowledge of manufacturing and metrology techniques for mechanical or optical components
• Experience with LEAN, 6, or structured process-improvement methodologies is preferred

Education/Experience:

• 6+ years previous experience or equivalent in new product introduction, manufacturing engineering, process development, or a related engineering field
• Minimum BS in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Optical Engieering, Systems Egnieering, or a related technical discipline
• Experience in an opto-mechanical, electro-mechanical, or precision-assembly environment is preferred
• ISO or other quality system experience is a plus

Physical Requirements:

Ability to sit or stand for long periods of time; ability to travel; work in office and factory setting.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Think you meet some of the requirements but not all? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs for which they do not meet every qualification. If you see a role that interests you, we encourage you to apply, regardless of whether or not your experience is completely aligned with the job description. Edmund Optics is committed to becoming the most diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace within the Optics and Photonics Industry and beyond. You may be a great candidate for this role or others within Edmund Optics.

Compensation Range Transparency:

At Edmund Optics, we are committed to transparency and equity in our hiring practices. The posted salary range for this role reflects the expected base pay. The actual offer will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to relevant skills, education, work experience, business needs, and geographic location.

Salary Range:
$115,000 - $130,000 per year

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match up to 3%
• Daycare and Gym Reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave and New Mother Benefits
• Training and Development Opportunities

Availability of these benefits may depend on the country and employment type.