As a Senior Process Development Engineer at Photon Control Inc., a subsidiary of MKS Instruments, Inc. you play a key role in the design, development and delivery of current cutting-edge optical sensor solutions required for advanced semiconductor fabrication. In this role, you will be part of the Advanced Development Team, reporting to the Principal Optical Architect. Developing innovative methods to build prototypes and designing corresponding fixtures for the assembly process.

Finding, testing, and validating new materials for prototypes and assembly fixtures. Identifying and developing new processes and performing verification and validation plans, including design of experiments, conducting statistical analysis to verify process control and capability. Supporting DFX reviews within Engineering and providing feedback on best practice for product design and assembly.

Applying quality tools such as PFMEA, QCP, MSA etc. within the product development process to identify and mitigate risks early-on in the development process. Collaborating with cross-functional teams including advanced development, testing, manufacturing, and supply chain to address technical challenges, resolve issues, and maintain alignment throughout the product development process. Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Materials Science, Physics, Engineering Physics, or equivalent with at least 5 years of relevant experience.

Hands-on experience in designing, fabricating, and testing complex mechanical prototypes and fixtures.

Background in selection and testing of thermo-mechanical and optical materials, including adhesives, ceramics, glasses, metals, and polymers. Specialized knowledge of materials integration processes such as bonding, molding, casting, machining, etching.

Experience authoring comprehensive requirements documents, test plans and results.



Strong skills in DoE planning and execution, and competency in the use of statistical software (i.e. Competent in CAD design and creating engineering drawings for development of fixtures and prototype fabrication (using SolidWorks or equivalent). Knowledge of quality management principles, tools (FMEA, QCP etc.) Prior experience with optical system assembly.

Lean Six

Sigma training and Green / Black Belt certification. Perform activities such as sitting, standing, or typing for extended periods of time. Dedication to safety to mitigate hazards that may include heat, cold, fumes, strong magnets, confined spaces, lasers, microwaves, and vacuum/pressure systems.

Flexible and willing to work in very fast-paced environment where tasks and priorities may change often. Dedication to safety to mitigate hazards including handling mechanical and electrical hardware, high voltage, gas, water, and heat.

Bonus Percentage Plan Healthcare Including

Medical, Dental and Vision Life Insurance and AD&D; Medical Travel Insurance Global Employee Assistance Program This range is a reasonable expectation of pay for this position, based on a wide range of factors including qualifications, experience, education, training, operational and business needs and other considerations. Globally, our policy is to recruit individuals from wide and diverse backgrounds. However, certain positions require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to various export control regulations.





Applicants for these positions may be limited (by, for example, their countries of citizenship, country of origin, or immigration status) where required by law or governmental contact, and/or employment made contingent upon the issuance of appropriate governmental licensing. We win as a team and are committed to recruiting and hiring qualified applicants regardless of race, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions), religion, age, ancestry, physical or mental disability or handicap, marital status, membership in the uniformed services, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other category protected by applicable law. We conduct background checks and drug screens, in accordance with applicable law and company policies.

MKS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process due to a disability, please contact us at: [email protected] here is about exploring possibilities, taking action, and solving our customers’ toughest challenges. While you shape your role and make it unique, we invest in you with on-the-job and formal training, as well as educational assistance.

Diversity isn't just a nice-to-have; Our group of ~10,000 employees serves semiconductor manufacturing, electronics and packaging, and specialty industrial markets. With over 3,800 patents, our products are enabling advancements in 5G, renewable energy & storage, artificial intelligence, cloud technology, and big data. We're the behind-the-scenes support for some amazing technology. enables technologies that transform our world.

📌 Senior Process Development Engineer Job (Richmond)
🏢 MKS Instruments
📍 Richmond