Photonics Meaning Jobs in Usa
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You will collaborate with a dynamic team of physicists and engineers to design and build photonic devices, including narrow-linewidth lasers and integrated photonic systems, with applications in quantum sensing, communications, and measurement systems.
Key Responsibilities:
• Prototype Development
Lead the end-to-end design, simulation, and development of integrated photonic systems and laser subsystems, including waveguides, microrings, couplers, Sagnac mirrors, Bragg structures, and tapers.
• Simulation & Modeling
Perform device-level and system-level simulations using Lumerical MODE, FDTD, INTERCONNECT, HEAT/DEVICE, and GDSFactory. Conduct thermo-optic and electro-optic analysis and verification.
• Tapeout & Fabrication
Drive tapeout processes with commercial silicon photonics foundries. Manage GDSII layout preparation and validation using PDKs and oversee fabrication runs.
• System Integration
Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and thermal engineers to integrate photonic systems into complete atomic and quantum platforms. Ensure stable packaging, alignment, and optical performance.
• Characterization & Testing
Design and execute optical test procedures. Use MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, and other tools for real-time data acquisition, analysis, and iterative design refinement.
• Research & Innovation
Monitor advances in PIC technologies, frequency stabilization, and heterogeneously integrated lasers. Drive internal innovation and contribute to strategic R&D planning.
• Documentation & Reporting
Produce clear and thorough documentation including design specs, simulation reports, testing results, and fabrication protocols.
• Mentorship & Leadership
Mentor junior engineers and support technicians. Contribute to team skill development and project execution best practices.
Required Qualifications:
• Master's or Ph.D. in Photonics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Extensive hands-on experience with narrow-linewidth laser development and photonic system integration.
• Proficient in Ansys Lumerical, GDSFactory, MATLAB, Python, and SolidWorks.
• Demonstrated experience with PIC design, layout, and foundry tapeouts (SiN, SOI, etc.).
• Expertise in laser stabilization, diode/fiber coupling, bonding/alignment, and integrated thermal-mechanical design.
• Familiarity with PDK-based workflows and semiconductor fabrication.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency may be required.
Preferred Skills
• Experience with ultra-stable optical cavities, frequency combs, THz systems, or opto-electronic packaging.
• Background in microfabrication, cleanroom processes, or MEMS.
• Experience with RF and electronic integration.
• Track record of publications, patents, or conference presentations in photonics or quantum engineering.
• Project management and leadership experience.
About Rydberg Technologies
The Opportunity
CREOL, The College of Optics and Photonics at the University of Central Florida (UCF) invites applications for multiple full-time, 9-month faculty positions at the rank of Assistant Professor (tenure-earning), Associate Professor or Professor (tenured) in the area of optics and photonics. Topics of interest include but are not limited to: Space Photonics, Quantum Photonics, Lasers, Directed Energy, Advanced Imaging and Optical Materials. This search is tied to a major strategic investment by the University of Central Florida in Science, Engineering, and Technology.
Successful candidates will be expected to establish a top-quality, vigorous, highly visible research program, teach and mentor graduate and undergraduate students, and contribute to service in the institution and profession. CREOL is one the world's foremost institutions for research and education in optics and photonic science and engineering. The college offers Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in optics and photonics, and a B.S. degree in photonic science and engineering. The faculty engage in fundamental and applied research and education in lasers, optical fibers, semiconductor and integrated photonic devices, nonlinear and quantum optics, imaging, sensing and displays. In addition, the College of Engineering and Computer Science and the College of Sciences provide rich opportunities for collaboration. For more information visit has been consistently ranked highly among Best Global Universities for Optics by various agencies such as U.S. News & World Report. Located in Orlando, Florida, UCF is classified as a Very High Research Activity (R1) university by the Carnegie Foundation. With a diverse student body of more than 70,000 students, UCF is one of the largest universities in the country. The university offers more than 240 degree programs. UCF is committed to diversity and was designated a Hispanic Serving Institution in 2019. For the fifth consecutive year, UCF has been recognized among the nation's most innovative universities according to U.S. News & World Report while Kiplinger's and The Princeton Review have ranked UCF as one of the nation's best values for a college education. For more information, visit .
Minimum Qualifications:
Ph.D. from an accredited institution in optics or a closely related discipline at the time of appointment.
Applicants must demonstrate strong research experience with a high record of scholarly publications.
To obtain tenure upon hire, the selected candidate(s) must have a demonstrated record of teaching, research, and service commensurate with a tenured faculty appointment at the rank of associate professor or professor.
Preferred Qualifications:
Demonstrated experience in photonics research and education.
A successful record of submitting proposals for research funding.
Additional Application Materials Required:
UCF requires all applications and supporting documents to be submitted electronically through the Human Resources employment opportunities website, jobs/. In addition to the online application, interested candidates should upload the following:
A curriculum vitae.
A letter of interest describing qualifications for the position, such as research agenda and teaching experience/interest.
Statement of research and teaching plans
NOTE: Please have all documents ready when applying so they can be simultaneously uploaded. Once the online submission process is finalized, the system does not allow applicants to submit additional documents later.
The selected candidate will be required to submit official transcripts (and, as applicable, U.S. degree equivalency evaluations) documenting the conferral of their qualifying academic credentials.
Questions regarding this search should be directed to: Katie Connolly, HR Coordinator III at .
Special Instructions to the Applicants:
Sponsorship for employment-based visas will only be considered under exceptional circumstances and is not guaranteed. Preference will be given to candidates who are currently authorized to work for any employer in the United States.
Job Close Date:
Open until filled.
Note to applicants: Please keep in mind that a job posted as 'Open until filled' may close at any time without notice. As such, we encourage you to submit your application and all required documentation as quickly as possible to ensure consideration for the posted position.
Are you ready to unleash YOUR potential?
As a next-generation public research university and Forbes-ranked top employer in Florida, we are a community of thinkers, doers, creators, innovators, healers, and leaders striving to create broader prosperity and help shape a better future. No matter what your role is, when you join Knight Nation, you'll play an integral role at one of the most impactful universities in the country. You'll be met with opportunities to connect and collaborate with talented faculty, staff, and students across 13 colleges and multiple campuses, engaging in impactful work that makes a positive difference. Your time at UCF will provide you with many meaningful opportunities to grow, you'll work alongside talented colleagues on complex projects that will challenge you and help you gain new skills and you'll have countless rewarding experiences that go well beyond a paycheck.
Working at UCF has its perks!UCF offers:
Benefit packages, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending, and Employee Assistance Program.
Paid time off, including annual (12-month faculty) and sick time off and paid holidays.
Retirement savings options.
Employee discounts, including tickets to many Orlando attractions.
Education assistance.
Flexible work environment.
And more...For more benefits information, view the UCF Employee Benefits Guide click here.
Unless explicitly stated on the job posting, it is UCF's expectation that an employee of UCF will reside in Florida as of the date the employment begins.
Additional Requirements related to Research Positions:
Pursuant to Florida State Statute 1010.35, prior to offering employment to certain individuals in research-related positions, UCF is required to conduct additional screening. Applicants subject to additional screening include any citizen of a foreign country who is not a permanent resident of the U.S., or who is a citizen or permanent resident but is affiliated with or has had at least 1 year of education, employment, or training in China, Cuba, Iran, Russia, North Korea, Syria, or Venezuela.
The additional screening requirements only apply to research-related positions, including, but not limited to faculty, graduate positions, individuals compensated by research grants or contract funds, post-doctoral positions, undergraduate positions, visiting assistant professors, and visiting research associates.
Department
College of Optics and Photonics (CREOL)Work Schedule
VariesType of Appointment
RegularExpected Salary
NegotiableAs a Florida public university, the University of Central Florida makes all application materials and selection procedures available to the public upon request.
UCF is proud to be a smoke-free campus and an E-Verify employer.
If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call or email .
For general application or posting questions, please email .
Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Software Development: Design, develop, and maintain software for hardware devices, including control systems, signal processing algorithms, and user interfaces.Full-Stack Engineering: Implement solutions across the full technology stack, from low-level hardware interfaces to high-level application software.Hardware Integration: Collaborate with physicists, hardware and electrical engineers to integrate electronic controls, optimize performance, and ensure seamless operation of prototypes and devices.Signal Processing: Develop and refine signal processing techniques to enhance device accuracy and performance.Research and Innovation: Stay abreast of the latest advancements in software and embedded systems, quantum and photonics technology, and electrical engineering, contributing to innovative solutions and improvements.Team Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including physicists, engineers, and researchers, to achieve project goals and deliver high-quality products.Documentation and Testing: Create comprehensive documentation for software systems and conduct rigorous testing to ensure reliability and robustness.
Competencies and Skills:
Embedded Systems Programming: Proficiency in C, C++, Python, specifically tailored to embedded systems. Experience in developing firmware for RF receivers, including real-time processing and low-level hardware interaction.Firmware Development: Skills in developing and optimizing firmware for controlling laser devices and quantum sensors.Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS): Knowledge of RTOS for managing embedded systems efficiently.Data Acquisition and Processing: Techniques for acquiring, processing, and analyzing data from laser and quantum sensor systems.Digital Signal Processing (DSP): Techniques for implementing DSP algorithms on both general-purpose processors and specialized hardware like FPGAs and DSPs.Software Defined Radio (SDR): Familiarity with SDR platforms and tools such as GNU Radio, and skills in developing and optimizing SDR Development: Developing algorithms for signal processing, data analysis, and control systems. Developing and optimizing algorithms for RF signal acquisition, demodulation, decoding, and analysis.Control Theory: Understanding of feedback control systems and PID controllers for stabilizing lasers and quantum sensors.Microcontrollers and Microprocessors: Understanding of different types of microcontrollers (e.g., ARM Cortex) and microprocessors.Hardware-Software Integration: Skills in interfacing software with hardware components like sensors, actuators, and communication modules.Memory Management: Efficient use of memory and processing power in constrained environments. Control Signal Processing: Knowledge in processing signals from various sensors (e.g., photodetectors, temperature sensors, accelerometers, etc.).Communication Protocols: Familiarity with protocols like SPI, I2C, UART, and wireless communication standards (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi).Security: Implementing security measures in embedded systems to protect data and privacy.Laboratory Automation: Skills in automating experiments and measurements using platforms like MATLAB or LabVIEW.
Additional Skills:
Control Systems: Knowledge of feedback control systems for automatic gain control (AGC), frequency control, and other RF system parameters.RF Testing and Measurement: Experience with RF testing equipment like network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and oscilloscopes.Communication Protocols: Understanding of communication standards and protocols, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LTE, and 5G.Simulation and Modeling: Use of tools like HFSS, CST Microwave Studio, or ADS for simulating and modeling RF circuits and antenna systems.Machine Learning: Sound understanding and experience of machine learning algorithms, including supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning.Deep Learning: Proficiency in neural networks, CNNs, RNNs, LSTMs, GANs, and other deep learning architectures.Data preprocessing: Skills in data cleaning, normalization, augmentation, and feature engineering.Model Training and Optimization: Experience with techniques for training models efficiently, hyperparameter tuning, and optimization. Debugging and Testing: Proficiency in debugging tools and techniques for both software and hardware, and experience with automated testing frameworks.Version Control: Use of version control systems for development.Project Management: Skills in managing projects with cross-disciplinary teams.Education: Keeping up-to-date with latest advancements in signal processing and embedded systems.
Hi Rameez here from Beaconfire. I hope you're doing well! We’re currently hiring for an exciting MERN/MEAN Developer role, and I wanted to reach out to see if you or someone in your network might be interested. This is a fantastic opportunity to work on high-impact projects using modern technologies in a collaborative and growth-oriented environment.
About the Company
BeaconFire is based in Central NJ, specializing in Software Development, Web Development, and Business Intelligence; looking for candidates with a strong background in Software Engineering or Computer Science for a Python/Node Developer position.
About the Role
The role involves developing websites and writing scalable, secure, maintainable code while collaborating with team members to achieve project goals.
Responsibilities
- Develop websites using HTML, CSS, Node.js, React.js, and Angular2+, among other tools;
- Write scalable, secure, maintainable code that powers our clients’ platforms;
- Create, deploy, and maintain automated system tests;
- Work with Testers to understand defects opened and resolves them in a timely manner;
- Supports continuous improvement by investigating alternatives and technologies and presenting these for architectural review;
- Collaborate effectively with other team members to accomplish shared user story and sprint goals;
- Invest time in constant professional development to stay up to date with new technological development and programming languages;
- Discover and fix programming bugs;
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Proficient understanding of HTML and CSS;
- Experience in programming language JavaScript or similar (e.g. Java, Python, C, C++, C#, etc.) and understanding of the software development life cycle;
- Basic knowledge of code versioning (e.g. Git, SVN);
- A passion for coding pixel perfect web pages;
- Good verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
Required Skills
- Proficient understanding of HTML and CSS;
- Experience in programming language JavaScript or similar (e.g. Java, Python, C, C++, C#, etc.) and understanding of the software development life cycle;
- A passion for coding pixel perfect web pages;
- Good verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
Preferred Skills
- Bachelor's degree or higher in Computer Science or related fields;
- 0-1 year of practical experience in JavaScript coding;
- Familiarity with at least one JavaScript framework (Angular2+, React.js, Express.js);
- Experience with unit and integration testing of code, with an understanding of JavaScript testing frameworks like Jasmine, Cucumber, Mocha, and Karma;
- Experience providing REST/SOAP APIs for user interface consumption;
- Experience working within an Agile development methodology Scrum.
BeaconFire is an E-verified company and provides equal employment opportunities (visa sponsorship provided).
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Avo Photonics ( ) is a dynamic contract engineering services company that designs, develops and manufactures custom opto-electronic products for a large customer base. Members of our staff have the opportunity to design, prototype, and produce next generation products for a diverse range of markets including environmental, medical, military, industrial, aerospace, and communications.
We are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Manager who will help to further our success and reputation in the industry through world-class customer service for our weekend operations. This position will report directly to the Director of Manufacturing. The successful candidate must keep multiple records, be self-motivated, maintain a professional presence, and have the desire to take ownership.
Specifically:
- Manage production Line Managers
- Execute production build plans as defined by Director of Manufacturing; meet customer performance, quality, and delivery
- Ensure 100% accurate execution of process steps per authorized Work Instructions by properly trained personnel
- Continually monitor and optimize staffing placement, development, and needs
- Define and track training program for all production staff
- Take ownership and demonstrate excellence; production areas shall exemplify discipline, cleanliness, quality, and control
- Confirm all Quality Documents are being completed properly and in a timely fashion
- Monitor and manage yield loss scrap so that corrective actions can be implemented quickly
- Drive continuous improvement through observations shared and discussed with Director of Manufacturing and Product Engineering
- Ensure that equipment and quality issues are resolved through Engineering
Requirements:
- B.S. in Operations Management or a technical discipline
- 7 years of progressive manufacturing leadership, inclusive of supervisory roles of multi-shift operations
- Ability to plan equipment capacity, staffing, space and material flow in a high technology manufacturing environment
- Demonstrated ability to identify and develop strong Line Managers and Process Leads
- Demonstrated experience in establishing teams and personnel development planning in a manufacturing environment
- Strong attention to details
- Ability to communicate clearly and concisely
Apply: Avo Photonics offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Avo Photonics is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee of Avo Photonics by any method without a valid written contract in place with Avo Photonics will be deemed the sole property of Avo Photonics. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Avo Photonics as a result of the referral or through any other means.
Avo Photonics ( ) is a dynamic contract engineering services company that designs, develops, and manufactures custom opto-electronic products for a large customer base. Members of our staff can design, prototype, and produce next generation products for a diverse range of markets including environmental, medical, automotive, military, industrial, aerospace, and communications.
We seek a diligent, dedicated and meticulous leader who will help to further our success and reputation in the industry through world-class customer service. The successful candidate must be able to lead a team, keep multiple records, be self-motivated, maintain a professional presence, and have the desire to take ownership of projects.
Responsibilities:
- Shift management of 10-20 Production Technicians and Assembly/Test Operators
- Understand area production goals and how they link to meet customer delivery requirements; execute build plans to meet shipment schedules
- Continually evaluate and identify staffing needs and excesses to meet goals while minimizing cost; assign the appropriate level of staff for each process step
- Evaluate all staff for development potential and performance management
- Ensure accurate execution of process steps per authorized work instructions by properly trained personnel; ensure all staff maintain process proficiency with documented training records
- Ensure inventory accuracy by timely and accurate recording of materials consumed, scrapped, or quarantined
- Manage yield loss scrap promptly so that corrective actions can be implemented quickly
- Ensure that equipment and quality issues are resolved timely, whether through production, engineering, or customer resources
- Ensure proper housekeeping throughout the department including all work surfaces, equipment, racks and the floor.
Requirements:
- 4 years of operations experience in a leadership role
- B.S. in Operations Management or a technical discipline is preferred
- Experience with standard spreadsheet applications is required; experience with ERP systems is preferred
- Proven ability to communicate effectively across multiple departments with all levels
- Possess a sense of urgency to resolve problems
- Demonstrated experience in training or developing personnel in an operations environment
- Outstanding verbal and written communication skills
Apply: Avo Photonics offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Avo Photonics is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee of Avo Photonics by any method without a valid written contract in place with Avo Photonics will be deemed the sole property of Avo Photonics. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Avo Photonics as a result of the referral or through any other means.
Avo Photonics ( ) is a dynamic contract engineering services company that designs, develops and manufactures custom opto-electronic products for a large customer base. Members of our staff have the opportunity to design, prototype and produce next generation products for a diverse range of markets including environmental, medical, military, industrial, aerospace, and communications.
We seek a diligent, dedicated and meticulous person who will help to further our success and reputation in the industry through world-class customer service. The successful candidate must plan his/her own work schedule, keep multiple records, be self-motivated, maintain a professional presence, and have the desire to take ownership of projects.
Specifically:
- Design and assemble tools, fixtures, and test and assembly workstations
- Set up and bring up test and assembly stations
- Troubleshoot and resolve problems with test fixtures and stations
- Define preventive maintenance plans for test fixtures and stations
- Improve process yield and station up-time through good design and continuous improvement
- Apply 5S methods to design work areas for efficiency, product quality, and ergonomics
- Identify and eliminate safety hazards in stations, tools, and fixtures
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering. Mechanical engineering preferred
- 3 years experience in industry
- Demonstrated attention to detail
- Experience with 5S manufacturing methodology
Apply: Avo Photonics offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply!
Equal Opportunity Employer: Avo Photonics is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee of Avo Photonics by any method without a valid written contract in place with Avo Photonics will be deemed the sole property of Avo Photonics. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Avo Photonics as a result of the referral or through any other means.
Avo Photonics ( ) is a dynamic contract engineering services company that designs, develops, and manufactures custom opto-electronic products for a large customer base. Members of our staff have the opportunity to design, prototype and produce next generation products for a diverse range of markets including environmental, medical, military, industrial, aerospace, and communications.
We seek a diligent, dedicated, and meticulous person who will help to further our success and reputation in the industry. The successful candidate must plan his/her own work schedule to meet project deadlines, keep multiple records, be self-motivated and detail oriented, maintain a professional presence, and have the desire to take ownership of projects.
Specifically:
- Manage Teams responsible for all materials including incoming inspection, inventory (stock room and manufacturing floor), reject control
- Lead and manage the incoming inspection process for all materials and components, ensuring timeliness and compliance with quality standards and specifications
- Communicate issues to Procurement
- Oversee inventory organization and ensure timely distribution of materials on a 24/7 basis
- Manage materials reconciliation processes to ensure accuracy and consistency
- Conduct root cause analysis for inventory discrepancies and implement corrective actions
- Understand and control rejected material returned to the inventory room and ensure proper and timely disposition
- Partner with Procurement Manager to return rejected material discovered on production floor
- Support accounting of recovered materials
- Be highly organized and efficient at prioritizing workload
Requirements:
- BS in business, accounting, operations, or related discipline
- 10 years experience with management of Materials in a manufacturing environment
- Expertise with an ERP system (SAP preferred)
- 7 years management experience of small teams
- Experience operating within an ISO9001-certified company
- Outstanding verbal and written English communication skills
- Attributes: High attention to detail, organized, able to multitask, personable, motivated, willing to take initiative
Apply: Avo Photonics offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply!
Equal Opportunity Employer: Avo Photonics is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee of Avo Photonics by any method without a valid written contract in place with Avo Photonics will be deemed the sole property of Avo Photonics. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Avo Photonics because of the referral or through any other means.
About Chiral Photonics
Chiral Photonics is a fast-growing photonics manufacturing company enabling next-generation optical connectivity. We specialize in high-precision fiber-optic components and assemblies that support advanced data center, AI, and communications infrastructure. As we scale production, we are building strong operational foundations rooted in standard work, quality, and continuous improvement.
Role Overview
The Production Floor Manager owns the day-to-day execution of manufacturing operations on the production floor. This role is responsible for meeting daily and weekly production goals, ensuring adherence to SOPs and work instructions, maintaining a clean and organized floor, and supporting production teams through hands-on leadership, equipment troubleshooting, and close collaboration with Production Director, Operations, Engineering and R&D teams.
This is a highly visible role critical to scaling output while maintaining Chiral’s high standards for precision, quality, and safety.
Key Responsibilities
Production Execution & Performance
- Lead daily production floor operations, ensuring work is executed according to plan and priorities.
- Own achievement of daily and weekly output targets (e.g., standard orders, batch completion, on-time delivery).
- Track and manage key production metrics such as:
- Units completed per day/week
- WIP levels by process step
- Throughput and cycle time
- Rework and defect trends
- Participate in and lead daily production huddles and weekly planning reviews.
- Ensure every technician has a work order and all parts are ready in advance of their scheduled shift.
- Work closely with Operations Planning Coordinator to review forecasted plans and targets.
Team Management
- Directly manage and support a production team of approximately 10-15 technicians (scaling over time).
- Provide clear daily direction, prioritize work, and rebalance resources as needed to meet goals.
- Coach technicians on standard work, quality expectations, and safe operating practices.
- Support onboarding and training of new production staff in partnership with Operations
- Review timecards for accuracy and completeness
Standard Work, Quality & Compliance
- Ensure strict adherence to SOPs, work instructions, and quality controls across all production activities.
- Enforce discipline around WIP management, including labeling, tracking, storage locations, and FIFO practices.
- Identify deviations from standard work and drive corrective actions.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and audit-ready production floor (5S mindset).
Equipment & Troubleshooting Support
- Act as first-line support for equipment issues and production interruptions.
- Troubleshoot common equipment and process issues alongside technicians.
- Escalate complex issues appropriately and coordinate with Process Engineering and Operations.
- Help minimize downtime and ensure fast recovery to standard operations.
Process Improvement & Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner closely with Process Engineering to identify bottlenecks, yield issues, and improvement opportunities.
- Contribute ideas and data to drive process optimization, efficiency gains, and defect reduction.
- Support pilot changes, new process introductions, and scaling initiatives on the production floor.
- Provide structured feedback from operators to operations to be triaged for action with process / engineering / R&D.
Safety & Housekeeping
- Promote and enforce a safe working environment at all times.
- Ensure compliance with safety procedures, PPE requirements, and cleanliness standards.
- Address safety or housekeeping issues immediately and proactively.
Qualifications
- 10+ years of experience supervising or leading manufacturing operations (precision manufacturing, photonics, optics, electronics, or similar preferred).
- Strong understanding of production workflows, SOP-driven environments, and WIP control.
- Hands-on leadership style with the ability to work directly on the floor.
- Experience supporting equipment troubleshooting and process adherence.
- Strong communication skills and comfort working cross-functionally with engineering and operations.
Preferred Experience
- Experience in fiber-optic, photonics, semiconductor, medical device, or other high-precision manufacturing environments.
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing, 5S, or continuous improvement methodologies.
- Experience scaling production from low-volume to higher-volume operations.
About Chiral Photonics
Chiral Photonics is a fast-growing photonics manufacturing company enabling next-generation optical connectivity. We specialize in high-precision fiber-optic components and assemblies that support advanced data center, AI, and communications infrastructure. As we scale production, we are building strong operational foundations rooted in standard work, quality, and continuous improvement.
Role Overview
The Operations Project Manager sits at the intersection of production planning and project/program management and plays a critical role in translating customer demand, business strategy, and operational capabilities into executable plans.
This role is responsible for:
- Production Forecasting and Capacity Planning (~40%) — Developing and maintaining production forecasts and capacity plans to ensure the organization has the right people, stations, and sequencing in place to meet customer demand.
- Portfolio Project Management (~40%) — Driving execution and alignment across a portfolio of operational, manufacturing, engineering, and business initiatives, ensuring priorities are clearly sequenced, resources are allocated appropriately, and projects progress according to plan.
- Additional Assignments (~20%) — Supporting the Operations and Production Directors with operational initiatives as needed. This may include, but is not limited to, reviewing and updating standard operating procedures (SOPs) across the product lifecycle, supporting process improvement efforts, and assisting with operational coordination.
This is a highly cross-functional role that partners closely with Production, Process Engineering, R&D, Sales, and Leadership. The ideal candidate is structured, analytical, and detail-oriented, and is comfortable bringing clarity, organization, and strong follow-through to complex operational challenges.
Key Responsibilities
1. Production Forecasting & Planning (~40%)
- Own and maintain production forecasts across standard, custom, and R&D orders.
- Translate demand into capacity and resource plans, including labor, stations/equipment, and shift planning.
- Maintain resource models by station, value stream, and operator.
- Partner with Production, Process and Engineering to assign work, identify bottlenecks, and mitigate risks.
- Track forecast vs. actual performance and improve planning accuracy.
- Support planning in a high-mix, high-volume manufacturing environment with both production and R&D workstreams.
- Support scale decisions, including staffing, cross-training, additional stations, and automation opportunities.
2. Project & Portfolio Management (~40%)
- Manage a portfolio of cross-functional initiatives across manufacturing scale, process improvement, engineering enablement, and operational systems.
- Develop and maintain project plans, timelines, and dependencies.
- Drive execution by tracking actions, ensuring follow-through, and escalating risks.
- Help leadership sequence priorities and align resources across operational initiatives.
- Prepare status updates, dashboards, and decision materials.
3. Additional Assignments (~20%)
Support Operations and Production leadership with initiatives that improve execution, standardization, and cross-functional coordination, including:
- Maintaining and improving SOPs and work instructions across the product lifecycle.
- Supporting process improvement initiatives to improve throughput and reduce cycle time.
- Assisting with operational reporting, dashboards, and data analysis.
- Contributing to special projects and operational initiatives as needed.
Required Qualifications
- 7+ years of experience in manufacturing operations planning and program/project management, or manufacturing operations (startup or scale‑up experience strongly preferred)
- Strong analytical skills with hands‑on experience in:
- Forecasting and capacity planning
- Resource modeling and scenario analysis
- Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent projects with competing priorities
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, evolving environment
- Ability to manage stakeholders at various levels.
Preferred Experience
- Experience in manufacturing, hardware, photonics, semiconductors, or advanced technology environments
- Familiarity with:
- High‑volume / high mix production
- R&D and custom order workflows
- Lean, continuous improvement, or operational excellence frameworks
- Advanced proficiency in Excel / Google Sheets; experience with planning or PM tools is a plus