Principal Optics Manufacturing Engineer - Richardson, TX

Date Posted:

2025-09-05

Country:

United States of America

Location:

TX231: Richardson 1601 North Plano Road , Richardson, TX, 75081 USA

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.

Security Clearance:

None/Not Required

At Raytheon, the foundation of everything we do is rooted in our values and a higher calling – to help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression. We bring the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat. Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world. 

At Raytheon's Optics Manufacturing Center, the Manufacturing Engineering team plays a critical role in sustaining our competitive edge in the design and production of complex optical components, assemblies, and systems. We are responsible for driving operational excellence—ensuring high-quality product delivery that meets schedule, cost, and safety targets.

The Manufacturing Engineering team at our facility in Richardson TX seeks a highly skilled and motivated Principal Optics Manufacturing Engineer to join our team. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the production of advanced optical systems using state-of-the-art diamond turning and polishing technologies.  Relocation benefits available.

What You Will Do:

• Provide engineering support for the fabrication and metrology of high-precision optical mirrors and lenses.
• Develop and document robust manufacturing process plans that meet complex optical and mechanical specifications, while optimizing for cost, throughput, quality, and yield.
• Interpret and verify conformance of engineering drawings, specifications, work instructions, and test procedures to applicable internal and external standards.
• Support bid and proposal efforts by estimating time and resources required for manufacturing activities.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives through data analysis and process optimization.
• Collaborate closely with manufacturing technicians on the factory floor to resolve production issues in real time.
• Specify, procure, and validate production and metrology equipment required for optical manufacturing and testing.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective action (RCCA) efforts for product or process failures using structured problem-solving tools such as 5 Whys and Fishbone.
• Interface with cross-functional teams, program management, and customers to provide technical guidance, ensure requirements compliance, and support key project milestones.

Qualifications You Must Have:

• Bachelor’s degree in science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) or equivalent, with a minimum of 8 years of relevant engineering experience.
• Relevant experience is providing engineering support in a precision optics manufacturing environment.
• U.S. citizenship is required, as this role involves access to sensitive information restricted to U.S. citizens under the terms of the program/contract.

Qualifications We Prefer:

• Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in Mechanical Engineering, Precision Engineering, or a related field.
• Reading and interpreting engineering drawings that utilize GD&T standards and translating them into appropriate manufacturing steps.
• Hands-on expertise in operating and programming 3-axis and/or 5-axis CNC equipment using CAM software such as Diffsys, MasterCAM or comparable platforms.
• Experience with optical metrology equipment, including interferometers, Computer Generated Holography (CGH), and Luphoscan.
• Familiarity with Slow Tool Servo and/or Fast Tool Servo processes for manufacturing freeform surfaces.
• Experience with Magnetorheological Finishing (MRF) Process.
• Measuring components using a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM).
• Ability to analyze technical data using MATLAB or similar data analysis software.
• Creating and evaluating CAD models using Creo, SolidWorks, or similar CAD software.
• Setting up machines, executing initial runs, troubleshooting issues, and conducting post-machining inspections.
• Conducting root cause analysis and implementing effective corrective actions.
• Developing clear and detailed technical documentation to support manufacturing operations.
• Adapting work hours as needed to meet business and production demands.

What We Offer:

Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more c