Principal Crystal Growth Process Engineer

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.

As the Principal Crystal Growth Process Engineer , you will lead the operation and optimization of crystal growth equipment, including bulk‑growth from a melt and solution‑based crystal growth processes. You will support the design and improvement of production equipment and processes, lead equipment or process transfers, and drive initiatives focused on troubleshooting, cost reduction, cycle‑time improvement, process stability, and metrics tracking.

In addition, you will create and maintain process documentation and play a key role in developing new processes and products that meet internal and external customer requirements.

Responsibilities

• Identifies and monitors critical crystal growth process parameters, addresses factors that impact process control, yield, and throughput.
• Creates/maintains crystal growth procedures, SPC charts and related paperwork.
• Investigates data to establish correlations & trends, improvements, and root cause failure analysis for existing processes.
• Utilizes fundamental understanding of materials science and crystal growth to develop new growth processes to meet internal and external customer requirements.
• Leads the implementation of processes/technology from R&D to manufacturing.
• Supports manufacturing operations in capacity expansion and supplier qualification while maintaining quality and meeting product specifications.
• Generates scientific and technical ideas, contributes to the Intellectual Property Portfolio of Attalon by writing disclosures and patents. Participates in scientific meetings
• Strong oral and written communication; able to adjust communication for varied audiences.
• Frequent travel to other Attalon facilities located in the continental United States.
• Job will initially be located in Port Richey, FL, with expected move to Murrieta, CA in 12-24 months Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelors in Materials Science, Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry. Master’s or Ph.D. degree in related technical field is a strong plus.
• Minimum 8 years of melt crystal growth experience, preferably with sapphire, YAG, spinel or other high-melting materials. Solution-based crystal growth experience strongly desired. Gradient freeze crystal growth experience desired.
• Hands-on experience in the operation of high temperature furnaces, power supplies, vacuum systems, and infrastructure equipment.
• Excellent verbal and written interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated success in bringing engineering concepts into production.
• History of analysis and successful resolution of complex engineering issues.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve results independently or working with others.

Preferred Qualifications

• Good command of crystal growth principles, materials science, and their application to crystal growth technology in industrial environment.
• Demonstrates a hands‑on, solutions‑driven approach to equipment and process maintenance and troubleshooting, rapidly identifying and resolving operational and technical issues to ensure stable, high‑quality crystal growth performance
• Working knowledge of crystal growth equipment troubleshooting. Ability to rapidly identify operational, technical problems and emergencies, and to develop quick responses.
• Experience with SPC and DoE, maintaining records, preparing reports and technical summaries, internal and external presentations.
• Proficiency in CAD desired, preferably Solid. Works.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve results independently or working as part of a team, working with employees in a multi-cultural, global team environment.
• Sets a high standard of ethics, professionalism, leadership, and competency. Working Conditions
• Job operates in production environment on 1st shift, schedule is Mon-Fri. Occasionally working on alternate shifts to meet manufacturing demands is required. On-call support may be required.
• Job will initially be located in Port Richey, FL, with expected move to Murrieta CA in 12-24 months
• Works in areas with fumes, airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals.
• Required to function in narrow aisles or passageways.
• Noise level – Usually loud. 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.