Process Engineer (Nano-imprint Lithography)
WaveOptics (a Snap inc wholly owned subsidiary) is a world-leading designer and manufacturer of revolutionary Augmented Reality (AR) waveguides. Our waveguides have a balance of attributes that deliver a superior display to the widest range of users with a high level of comfort.
WaveOptics currently operates production lines based in Weifang, China and in Austria so the role will require visits there. WaveOptics also partners with suppliers in Europe which will also require regular visits.
Due to continued growth and demand we are looking to appoint a Process Engineer who will be based at our Headquarters near Abingdon, UK and report to the Director, Manufacturing Engineering who is based in Abingdon. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic operations team where you will be responsible for the technical support and delivery of waveguides using our Nano-imprint Lithography equipment and processes.
What you’ll do:
- Lead and prioritise engineering activities within the Nanoimprint Lithography fabrication area;
- Own the NIL Process Engineering team for manufacturing reviews. Influence manufacturability in design internally;
- Collaborate closely with Test and Reliability test teams to ensure robust production and testing of product prototypes and samples;
- Identify potential defects and risks in product or project plans;
- Consider NPI needs and guide Process Engineering and Facilities to implement new processes by buying new or modifying existing equipment;
- Actively engage with suppliers and development teams to evaluate potential new processes and materials to improve cost, reliability and quality and to participate in engineering-wide initiatives to improve process and product performance, operational excellence and team productivity;
- Develop processes, systems, equipment, materials and products. Evaluate the effectiveness of changes to processes, designs and materials. Seek out new materials, capital equipment and processes to advance Snap Labs internal or external capabilities;
- Drive the production volume ramp;
- Maintain a positive safety and environmental culture to satisfy ISO 18001 and ISO 140001;
- Other tasks which support the company manufacturing strategy.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Excellence in analytical problem solving and root cause analysis skills;
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills across multiple disciplines;
- Ability to identify key issues and effectively prioritise time for you and the wider team;
- Strong attention to detail.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Strong BSc or higher-level degree in Physics, Materials or Photonics;
- Experience working in cleanrooms and in a volume manufacturing / production environment;
- Extensive experience/background in product or process engineering.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous experience in optical devices (ie. telecoms), optical systems or display technology;
- Experience in NPI, from design concept through to production with an established track record of completing complex projects on time and with quality;
- Experience in Nanoimprint Lithography would be an advantage;
- Comprehensive understanding of statistical process control techniques and its application in production.
At Snap, we believe that having a team of diverse backgrounds and voices working together will enable us to create innovative products that improve the way people live and communicate. Snap is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and committed to providing employment opportunities regardless of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other protected classification, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. EOE, including disability/vets. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please don’t be shy and contact us at accommodations-ext@snap.com.
Our Benefits: Snap Inc. is its own community, so we’ve got your back! We do our best to make sure you and your loved ones have everything you need to be happy and healthy, on your own terms. Our benefits are built around your needs and include paid parental leave, comprehensive medical coverage, emotional and mental health support programs, and compensation packages that let you share in Snap’s long-term success!
At WaveOptics you will be trusted and empowered to deliver interesting and challenging projects.
We have a knowledgeable and diverse team working at the forefront of AR and we value people who share our commitment to innovation. We have received multiple awards, such as SPIE Prism award in 2020 and 2021.
“I decided to join WaveOptics because it is carrying out R&D at the cutting edge of modern nano-photonics. The tasks that we are working on are very challenging and the only way to accomplish them is to work with the best people, and this is exactly how I would describe the team.” ARSENY ALEXEEV, DIRECTOR OF WAVEGUIDE DEVELOPMENT

Perks & Benefits
Family
- Paid maternity, paternity, and family caregiver leave
- Adoption, surrogacy, infertility, and fertility preservation benefits
- Short-term disability, long-term disability, life insurance, and AD&D insurance
Health
- Comprehensive medical coverage
- Dental coverage, including orthodontia benefits
- Vision coverage
Body
- Gym perks and discounts
- Team fitness classes, hikes, and races
- Sports leagues
- Cooking and nutritional workshops
Financial Fitness
- Rocket Lawyer memberships
- Financial education programs
- Compensation packages that let you share in Snap’s long-term success

Mind
- Generous time off and leave programs
- Meditation and yoga classes
- Emotional and mental health support programs and apps
- Speaker series, classes, and subscriptions to educational programs
- Social gatherings, team outings, and volunteering programs