Process Development Technician

We are seeking a hands-on Process Development Technician to join an innovative optical technology company in Oxfordshire, supporting the development and scale-up of novel manufacturing processes for next-generation adaptive lens technology.

Working within a highly scientific, multidisciplinary R&D environment, you will support the transition of manufacturing processes from laboratory development into pilot-scale production. This will involve working closely with scientists and engineers to trial and refine manufacturing procedures, evaluate process performance, identify potential improvements and help establish reliable, repeatable manufacturing operations.

This is an opportunity for a technically curious and practically minded individual who enjoys hands-on work, understands the importance of precision and process control, and wants to contribute to the development of new manufacturing technologies.

About the Company

Our client is an innovative deep-tech company developing advanced adaptive lens technology based on proprietary optical soft materials and fluid-filled lens systems. Its technologies have applications across AR/VR/XR, ophthalmics, optical instrumentation and next-generation consumer electronics.

The company works with leading global technology businesses to develop novel optical solutions, combining expertise in materials science, optical engineering, precision mechanical systems and advanced manufacturing.

As the business progresses towards pilot-scale manufacturing, it is expanding its process development and manufacturing capabilities to support the transition of its technology from laboratory prototypes towards repeatable, scalable production.

The company offers a highly collaborative R&D environment where scientists, engineers and technicians work closely together to solve complex technical challenges and develop innovative manufacturing solutions.

The Role

The company is currently scaling its manufacturing processes, transferring original development processes into a pilot production line for the manufacture of prototype devices.

A key part of this work is the development of robust SOPs that are reliable, repeatable and efficient.

As a Process Development Technician, you will join the company's talented process development team and support the execution of the manufacture of the company's novel optical lens technology.

You will execute SOPs diligently, providing accurate data collection and feedback on failed parts, working collaboratively with the team to manage the day-to-day processing and troubleshooting of R&D and manufacturing materials.

Over time, as the company scales, you will have the opportunity to become the first member of a small team of technicians, supporting the training of future hires.

This is more than just a standard technician role — you will be a valued member of the process development team and will play a key role in supporting the manufacturability and scale-up of the company's novel lens system.

About You

To be considered for the role of Process Development Technician, you must have:

• The ability to communicate effectively with the wider team and subject matter experts regarding manufacturing problems and faults.
• A strong commitment to manufacturing quality, with the integrity and confidence to raise non-conformances, including those arising from your own work.
• Diligence in record keeping and process documentation.
• An eagerness to learn and the humility to develop skills through repetition and practical experience.
• Good practical skills and mechanical aptitude.
• Enthusiasm for hands-on work and a willingness to get actively involved in manufacturing activities.
• An HNC, HND, BTEC or higher qualification in an engineering or scientific discipline, providing the technical foundation to understand and discuss manufacturing processes.
• Competence in Microsoft Excel.
• Strong visual inspection skills and attention to fine details.

Desirable experience

• At least two years' experience in a similar manufacturing or production role.
• Experience working within a cleanroom manufacturing environment or a similarly controlled environment, such as a laboratory.
• Experience manufacturing precision products, including optical systems, medical devices, aerospace components or other high-reliability products.
• Experience with inventory management, material control and COSHH.
• Experience working to ISO 13485 or comparable quality standards.

A positive, can-do attitude, together with the humility, aptitude and willingness to learn, will be prioritised over the desirable experience listed above.

Pay: £28,000.00-£36,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Private medical insurance

Work Location: In person