Manager, Optical Manufacturing Development Engineering

Lead the optical systems function within Divergent's Manufacturing Development Engineering (MDE) team, owning the integration, commissioning, and long-term calibration stability of optical subsystems (beam delivery, scanners/galvos, F-theta lenses, high-speed imaging) across the LPBF machine fleet. This is a player-coach role: you'll lead a small team of optics engineers while staying hands-on with builds, troubleshooting, and calibration verification — ensuring machines hold optical performance and repeatability from commissioning through full-rate production.

• Own optical subsystem integration and stabilization across LPBF machine builds, from initial bring-up through commissioning and steady-state production 
• Lead development of calibration procedures and, critically, verification methods that confirm calibration integrity is maintained over time — through drift, wear, and environmental variation 
• Build and lead a small team of optics engineers, working alongside them on builds, calibration, troubleshooting, and RCCA 
• Partner with hardware design, controls/software, process engineering, and operations to resolve optical performance issues affecting build quality, uptime, and throughput 
• Own documentation for optical subsystems: work instructions, calibration and verification procedures, acceptance criteria, and test plans 
• Lead RCCA on optical-related failures and escapes; own corrective and preventive actions to reduce recurrence 
• Establish metrics for optical system health (calibration hold time, drift rate, verification pass rate, MTBF) and drive continuous improvement 
• Train technicians and engineers on calibration, alignment, and laser safety practices 
• Support scale-up and replication of optical systems and processes across additional machines and factories 
• Leadership & Management 
  • Lead and develop a small team with clear expectations, real-time feedback, and accountability, while remaining personally hands-on in the lab and on the floor 
  • Model Divergent's core values of Respect, Clarity, Winning Spirit, Commitment, and Interdependence through disciplined execution and cross-functional collaboration 

• Ability to lawfully access information and technology that is subject to US export controls 
• Bachelor's degree in Optics/Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline 
• 5+ years of experience in electro-optical or opto-mechanical systems design, integration, or calibration, ideally within capital equipment or industrial systems 
• Experience developing and validating calibration and verification processes for optical or laser systems 
• Hands-on experience integrating high-power lasers, scanners/galvos, or beam delivery optics 
• Experience with RCCA and technical troubleshooting of complex electro-optical systems 
• Strong technical documentation skills (work instructions, test procedures, calibration standards) 
• Demonstrated ability to lead or mentor others while remaining technically hands-on 

• Experience with LPBF or additive manufacturing systems 
• Prior experience managing or formally mentoring engineers/technicians 
• Familiarity with laser safety programs and standards 
• Experience with high-power lasers (0.5kW+), beam shaping optics, or high-speed imaging/camera systems 
• Knowledge of PLM/MES, configuration management, and change control 
• Experience supporting factory scale-up or multi-site manufacturing deployment 

• On-site in office, laboratory, and manufacturing floor spaces 
• Hands-on work with lasers and optical equipment; adherence to laser safety protocols and required PPE 
• May occasionally require extended or weekend hours to meet deadlines