Coating Engineer in Rochester, New York at Gooch & Housego Rochester GSO

ABOUT US

Join a Global Photonics Leader Engineering Solutions from the Deep Ocean to Outer Space!

G&H is a world leader in photonics technology, delivering advanced optical systems, components, and solutions that support mission-critical applications across aerospace, defense, life sciences, industrial manufacturing, medical technology, and research markets. Our Rochester, NY facility specializes in the design and manufacture of precision optical components and coatings that enable customers to push the boundaries of innovation.

Through a commitment to technical excellence, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction, G&H provides employees with the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies while collaborating with highly skilled engineering and manufacturing professionals in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment.

THE OPPORTUNITY

We are seeking a highly skilled and hands-on Optical Coating Engineer to join our team in Rochester, NY. In this role, you will lead the design, development, optimization, and production support of advanced thin-film optical coatings used in optics, photonics, and laser applications. Working closely with engineering and manufacturing teams, you will drive coating performance, process improvements, and production success while ensuring products meet customer requirements and industry standards. This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys both technical problem-solving and hands-on involvement in manufacturing operations.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

Optical Coating Design & Development

• Design, model, and optimize thin-film coatings for optical components including lenses, mirrors, filters, beamsplitters, and prisms.
• Utilize optical coating design software such as TFCalc to simulate, analyze, and refine coating performance.
• Evaluate coating materials and deposition processes to achieve required optical, environmental, and durability specifications.

Process Engineering & Manufacturing Support

• Troubleshoot coating uniformity, adhesion, and performance issues during deposition and production.
• Partner with manufacturing teams to transition successful coating designs into repeatable production processes.
• Support production activities as needed, including working with Coating Technicians on loading parts, program execution, and inspection activities.

Testing, Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Conduct and oversee optical performance testing including transmittance, reflectance, and durability evaluations.
• Analyze process and test data to identify opportunities for performance improvements and corrective actions.
• Ensure coatings meet customer specifications, internal quality requirements, and applicable industry standards.

Equipment & Technical Leadership

• Support the maintenance, calibration, and optimization of coating equipment and vacuum deposition systems.
• Troubleshoot technical issues related to coating materials, processes, and equipment performance.
• Train and mentor technicians and production personnel on coating processes, equipment operation, and safety procedures.

WHAT YOU BRING

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.
• 5-10 years of experience in optical coating design, process development, or related photonics manufacturing environments.
• Hands-on experience with thin-film deposition technologies, including electron beam (E-beam) deposition.
• Proficiency with optical coating design and simulation software such as TFCalc.
• Strong understanding of thin-film optics, coating characterization methods, and optical performance measurement.
• Knowledge of optical coating materials, substrate selection, and environmental durability requirements.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex coating, manufacturing, and equipment-related challenges.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Experience working in cleanroom and vacuum chamber environments preferred.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate across engineering and manufacturing teams.

Certifications (optional)

• Certification in Optical Coatings or a related field is a plus.

G&H Benefits Include

• Competitive compensation package
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
• Paid vacation and company holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Professional development and career growth opportunities

If you're ready to make a meaningful impact in a world-class photonics environment and help advance next-generation optical technologies, we'd love to hear from you.

Notes: This job description is not intended to be exhaustive in every respect, but rather to clearly define the fundamental purpose, responsibilities, and dimensions of the role. Employees are expected to undertake all other reasonable and related tasks allocated by their manager.

US Applicants: In the instance that the position will involve having access to items and technical data that may be controlled under U.S. export laws and regulations ("U.S. Export Control Laws"), including but not limited to the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR") and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ("ITAR"). To comply with the U.S. Export Control Laws, G&H must assess whether candidates are "U.S. persons" as defined under applicable regulations. Certain questions asked during the application process are intended to assess this and will be used for evaluation purposes only. Failure to provide the necessary information may result in our inability to consider you further for this position.

The Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. The Company does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the grounds of gender, race, religion or belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.