Alcon is looking to hire a Senior Mechanical Engineer I. This role is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining precision machining processes for ophthalmic optical lenses using ultra-precision lathes. This role ensures high-quality, repeatable manufacturing of optical components that meet strict dimensional, surface finish, and optical performance requirements. The engineer works in a cross-functional team with R&D, manufacturing, quality, and suppliers to support new product introductions and continuous process improvements in a regulated medical device environment. This will be an on-site position in Belmont, CA and

A typical day will include:

• Support and optimize lathe-based machining processes for ophthalmic lenses, including spherical and toric geometries
• Define cutting strategies, tooling selection (e.g., diamond tools), feeds, speeds, and setups to achieve optical and cosmetic specifications
• Support process characterization studies focusing on surface roughness, form accuracy, and tool wear
• Establish robust process windows and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Provide day-to-day technical support to production teams for precision lathe operations
• Troubleshoot machining issues related to surface defects, dimensional drift, tool life, or machine performance
• Drive yield improvement, cycle time reduction, and scrap reduction initiatives
• Support equipment installation, commissioning, calibration, and preventive maintenance
• Ensure machining processes comply with medical device quality systems (e.g., ISO 13485, GMP)
• Collaborate with Quality Engineering to support nonconformance investigations, root cause analysis, and corrective actions
• Ensure full documentation and traceability of process changes
• Assist in translating optical designs into manufacturable machining processes
• Support prototype builds, pilot runs, and scale-up to high-volume production
• Participate in design for manufacturability and design for process reviews
• Analyze process data and metrology results to drive continuous improvement
• Apply statistical process control and DOE methodologies
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Attention to detail and commitment to product quality
• Clear technical communication, both written and verbal
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software and manufacturing documentation tools

What you'll bring to Alcon:

• Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent years of directly related experience (or high school +10 yrs; Assoc.+6 yrs; M.S.+0 yrs)
• The ability to fluently read, write, understand and communicate in English
• 2 Years of Relevant Experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience machining ophthalmic lenses or optical components
• Familiarity with optical materials and coatings
• Experience with ultra-precision equipment (e.g., Nanotech, Optoform, DAC lathes)
• Knowledge of optical inspection methods (interferometry, profilometry, form measurement)
• Lean Six Sigma certification or similar continuous improvement training

HOW YOU CAN THRIVE:

• See your career like never before with focused growth and development opportunities
• Join Alcon's mission to provide outstanding, innovative products and solutions to improve sight, improve lives, and grow your career!
• Alcon provides a robust benefits package including health, life, retirement, flexible time off and much more.

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Total Rewards

Alcon's Total Rewards programs are designed to align to incentives with business goals, encourage the right values and behaviors, and deliver long-term value. The first layer of our rewards program is compensation. We offer a combination of fixed pay and variable pay, which includes short-term incentives, and long-term incentives for eligible population. Our benefits program provides security for life events through life and disability insurance, supports savings for retirement, promotes good health and well-being and supports associates and their families during times of illness. To learn more about Alcon's Corporate Social Responsibility including our Total Rewards, click here

Pay Range
$90,750.00 - $151,250.00

Pay Frequency
Annual