Research & Development (R&D) Technician
Santa Rosa, CA
Full-Time | Day Shift | Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Pay: $34.00 - $37.00 per hour DOE
Position Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented and technically skilled R&D Technician to support product development, manufacturing processes, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role will work closely with Engineering, Production, and Quality teams to evaluate custom orders, develop manufacturing workflows, analyze metrology data, and support process optimization efforts in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
· Manage and prioritize a queue of non-standard customer orders while maintaining clear communication regarding status and delivery timelines.
· Review order requirements and define appropriate manufacturing workflows and processing methods.
· Design and generate photomask layouts using 2D and 3D CAD software, applying engineering judgment within established guidelines.
· Develop, validate, and maintain measurement routines across multiple metrology platforms.
· Analyze measurement data and provide manufacturability recommendations to engineering teams.
· Train production operators on manufacturing processes, inspection methods, and best practices.
· Troubleshoot manufacturing issues and provide technical support on the production floor.
· Lead and participate in continuous improvement projects, including data collection, process analysis, root cause investigation, and documentation updates.
· Assist with process development, validation activities, and implementation of new manufacturing techniques.
· Maintain accurate records, reports, and process documentation.
Qualifications
Required Skills & Experience
· Familiarity with Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) and practical metrology principles.
· Working knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC) and basic manufacturing statistics.
· Experience using Siemens NX CAD software.
· Experience in photochemical machining, PCB manufacturing, semiconductor fabrication, or a related precision manufacturing environment.
· Proficiency with vision measurement and metrology systems such as Keyence, Nikon, OGP, Zygo, or similar platforms.
· Understanding of basic chemistry concepts and process control methodologies.
· Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
· Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Education
· Associate degree (AA/AS) or higher in Engineering Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a related technical field; or
· Equivalent combination of technical training, certifications, and relevant work experience.