Work Description

Applications Engineers at AOS are the focal point between our customers and our operations staff. They support the development and introduction of new projects & opportunities for the company. Applications Engineers must work in a multi-disciplined role to understand the needs of our customers and translate those needs into executable methods to develop designs and manufacturing approaches. Applications Engineers must be expert in their understanding of optical design and tolerances, optics manufacturing and testing, quality, technical communications, and presentation.

Essential Functions

  1. Solicit, review, and process new customer inquiries. Study designs and specifications to determine if and how AOS can respond with a compelling solution. Determine manufacturability and appropriate scope of work to fulfill custom projects. This includes determining time, materials and process estimates. When appropriate and advantageous, suggest and negotiate alternatives that can improve performance, reduce cost & risk.
  2. Derive and utilize models that estimate the manufacturing method and cost of custom projects starting with metrology and manufacturing strategies. Using such, prepare technical scope & proposals for communication to our customers.
  3. Provide technical support to projects, which may include optical design and manufacturing analysis. Oversee progress and support manufacturing team with project requirements. Resolve unknowns and get answers to questions from both customers and staff quickly.
  4. Provide our customers with frequent and comprehensive support by providing project briefings, managing problem resolution, suggesting product or service improvements that will add value to our customer’s experience.
  5. Prepare and manage all customer communication including product and quality data.
  6. Provide technical support to our partner companies in Asia and Europe.
  7. Monitor and pursue gov’t solicitations to identify new project opportunities.
  8. Contribute to web updates, social media, and other promotional efforts.
  9. Maintain CRM software database.
  10. Prepare orders forecasts and strategies.
  11. Prepare and present technical papers at trade events and technical symposia.

Requirements & Qualifications

MS/PhD in Optics, Applied Physics, or related disciplines. Advanced knowledge of technologies used for manufacturing and measuring optical components and systems desired. Expert optics manufacturing experience considered as an alternative to advanced degree. Exceptional candidates with BS in Optics or Applied Physics will be considered for a training program to prepare them for this role.

Additional qualifications include quantitative reasoning skills, ability to multi-task, self-motivation, ability to learn through individual study of written or on-line resources, technical papers, or other sources to enhance skills and solve new problems. Applications Engineers must have the ability to communicate clearly and logically with customers and other employees in both verbal and written form. Successful Applications Engineers must have a natural curiosity combined with the desire to advance their own capabilities as well as those around them.

  • Proficient in communication and presentation of information
  • Self-motivated and dependable with a desire to master skills and career.
  • Honest, Independent, Thorough, Persistent
  • Ability to travel internationally in support of business operations both with customers and partners worldwide.
  • US Citizenship or permanent residency is required to manage export sensitive and ITAR related content.
  • Expert in executive functions such as time management, multitasking, and priority setting