Principal Development Engineer at Coherent Aerospace & Defense Inc – Traverse City, Michigan

Attalon / Location Overview

Attalon is a leading technology partner to the global aerospace and defense industry, specializing in the physics of light. With over 500 employees in the U.S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high-energy directed laser systems to satellite optics and hypersonic thermal protection, Attalon equips the warfighter with the advantage of precision.

ATTALON (EOC) in Traverse City, Michigan is a vertically integrated manufacturing and R&D campus specializing in high‑performance optical isolators, photodetectors, and laser solutions for industrial, medical, scientific, and research applications. The site encompasses 40,000 sq. ft., including 15,000 sq. ft. of ISO 5 and ISO 6 cleanrooms certified to ISO 14644‑1:2015, enabling both high‑volume production and rapid prototyping in a controlled environment.

At ATTALON inc. in Traverse City, MI we foster a culture of innovation and collaboration. Our teams work in a state-of-the-art facility with advanced cleanrooms, precision manufacturing, and cutting-edge R&D labs, enabling us to deliver world-class optical solutions. We value continuous improvement, technical excellence, and teamwork, leveraging vertical integration to accelerate design cycles and meet challenging customer requirements. Employees thrive in an environment that combines high-tech engineering with hands-on problem solving, where ideas move quickly from concept to production. If you’re passionate about precision, creativity, and making an impact in photonics, you’ll fit right in.

Job Title

Principal Development Engineer

Job Details

We are seeking a Principal Development Engineer for our location in Traverse City, MI. The Principal Development Engineer will play a pivotal role in new product development. This role oversees one or more individual development projects ranging from simple modifications of existing products and/or technology to the creation of new complex products and/or technology. The Principal Development Engineer will work with a cross-functional team to create innovative and enabling components for the photonics industry while also engaging with customers and suppliers to create and enable Attalon’s future success.

Responsibilities

Lead advanced product development projects, ensuring process compliance, technical excellence, and regular management updates.Design and testing of mechanical, optical, and electronic components and devices Development of cutting-edge high power laser diode products and processes.Sustain and improve existing laser diode products and processes.Create and maintain documentation (drawings, bills of material, device assembly procedures, schematics, test procedures, ISO, etc) Assist production department with design and performance issues Work with new and existing suppliers to enable project successTechnical customer interface on projects and general support for sales departmentCommitment to ISO procedures and policies Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or physics requiredMinimum of 9 years’ experience in Research and Development or Engineering Product Development role requiredExperience in leading multi-discipline, technical project teams Proficiency in Solidworks and/or Zemax requiredExperience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software preferred (COMSOL, Ansys, Solidworks) Strong knowledge of design for manufacturability principlesStrong knowledge of laser optics (fiber and bulk) and physics Strong critical thinking skills Working knowledge of the operation of low and high-power free space and fiber lasers Working knowledge of ASME Y14 dimensioning & tolerancing standards including GD&T Knowledge of various manufacturing techniques (machining, 3D printing, injection molding, etc.) In depth understanding of mechanics and physics Experience with material selection to optimize cost/performance Ability to perform duties with minimal or no supervision Strong PC skillsStrong communication and organizational skills Knowledge of basic electronic manufacturing materials and techniques Advanced arithmetic skills Ability to use complex equipment, read difficult instructions, and maintain written records

Preferred Qualifications

Advanced Experience in the design and development of high-power, single-emitter and bar-based laser diode assembliesAdvanced experience in Zemax modeling of optical systems utilizing laser diodes Advanced knowledge of thermal solder system manufacturing processes and design specifications

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Attalon, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Export Control Compliance

This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.