Optical Lab Manager Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

Position Responsibilities:

• Supervise, schedule, and mentor a team of CMM programmers and inspectors, balancing workload across multiple CMMs and 2D optical comparators to meet production and shipping schedules
• Personally program, set up, and run first-article, in-process, and final inspections using PC-DMIS and Calypso for complex Mil/Aero components
• Interpret and apply GD&T per ASME Y14.5 to develop inspection strategies for tight-tolerance, high-mix machined and fabricated parts
• Review engineering drawings and models to build inspection plans, datum structures, and characteristic accountability (AS9102 First Article Inspection Reports)
• Troubleshoot CMM program errors, fixturing issues, and measurement discrepancies; drive root cause and corrective action for measurement system nonconformances
• Perform Gauge R&R studies and Measurement System Analysis (MSA) to validate inspection methods and equipment capability
• Maintain and calibrate CMMs, 2D optical comparators, and supporting metrology equipment; coordinate outside calibration services as needed
• Train and cross-train CMM room personnel on programming software, GD&T interpretation, and inspection best practices
• Partner with Quality, Manufacturing Engineering, and Production to resolve fit, form, and function issues identified during inspection
• Support new product introduction (NPI) and first article inspection for new programs, including inspection plan development for new part numbers
• Maintain compliance with AS9100 and customer-specific Mil/Aero quality requirements within the CMM room
• Manage CMM room workflow, priorities, and staffing to support on-time delivery in a high-mix, low-volume production environment
• Evaluate and recommend new metrology equipment, software upgrades, and process improvements for the CMM room
• Conduct performance reviews, provide coaching, and support hiring and development of CMM room staff
• Other related duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• AS/BS in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical discipline, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• 5+ years of CMM programming and inspection experience, with prior lead or supervisory experience preferred
• Advanced, working knowledge of GD&T per ASME Y14.5 and tolerance stack-up analysis
• Proficiency programming and operating CMMs using both Calypso and PC-DMIS software
• Experience with 2D optical comparators and related measurement equipment
• Working knowledge of AS9102 First Article Inspection requirements and AS9100 quality systems
• Experience supporting Mil/Aero, aerospace, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments
• Experience with Gauge R&R, MSA, and other statistical measurement validation methods
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, 3D models, and customer specifications
• Demonstrated leadership, scheduling, and team development skills in a high-mix, low-volume environment
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills; able to balance hands-on programming work with supervisory responsibilities
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and quality/metrology data systems

The base pay hiring rate expected for this position is: $64,200 - $96,400 annually.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Work is performed primarily in a temperature- and humidity-controlled CMM/metrology lab within a manufacturing facility. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Frequent hand motion and repetitive tasks including using a computer for typing. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will occasionally do immediate reaching and overhead reaching to perform various duties, frequent standing for varied amounts of time to perform various duties, frequent walking for varied amounts of time to perform various duties. Squat or bend to perform various duties. Occasionally climb stairs.

Methode Electronics is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected characteristics. The EEO is the Law poster is available here: EEO Poster, if you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail torecruiting@methode.com or call (708) 867-6777 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

Benefits and Perks:

Methode offers US employees Medical, Dental, Vision, Hearing, Life & Disability insurance, a wellness program, and time off benefits.

Voluntary benefit plans include Accident, Hospital Indemnity and Pet Insurance.

Methode provides an Employee Assistance Program, and participation in the Company's 401(k) plan which includes a company contribution.

Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.

Methode Electronics is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected characteristics per the EEO Poster available here . If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to recruiting@methode.com or call (708) 867-6777 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.