New

Mechanical Quality Engineer

nLIGHT, Inc.
paid time off, paid holidays, long term disability, tuition assistance, 401(k)
United States, Colorado, Longmont
May 14, 2026
Description Location:Longmont, CO (onsite) Experience:A minimum of10years of experience workinginqualityengineeringwithopto-mechanical systems Minimum Education:Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Optical Engineering, or related technical field. Compensation:$140,000-$180,000 depending on experience. Who We Are nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is one of the nation's leading developers of Directed Energy systems, which is a top modernization priority of the Department of Defense. Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment of high energy laser solutions to the United States military and our allies. Located in Longmont, Colorado, nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is a vertically integrated business that leverages internal capabilities - from semiconductor device through target identification - to develop systems that are both high-performance and cost-effective. We continue to invest in capabilities, facilities and technology to bring leading edge HEL solutions to the warfighter. This is a great opportunity to work at a company that is on the leading edge of the HEL industry and provides a culture of excellence and commitment to delivering solutions to the warfighter and our country. Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR). Summary: Quality Engineers atnLIGHTDEFENSE Systems, Inc. play a critical role in ensuring that every mechanicalcomponentand assembly supporting our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems meets the rigorous standardsrequiredfor defense applications. Youwillestablishand lead quality engineering practices across incoming inspection, supplier quality, and productionsupport..We rely on analytical, highly motivated Quality Engineers who can driverootcauseinvestigations, lead supplier engagement, and elevate our manufacturing processes. All applicants must possess or be qualified to obtain a U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Preference will be given to candidates with an existing U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance.Further information on requirements to obtain a security clearance is available at: https://www.dcsa.mil/mc/pv/mbi/gicp/.Please review this information before applying. Responsibilities: Own and manage NCMRs, includingroot causeanalysis, corrective actions, and tracking to closure. Review engineering drawings for manufacturability, clarity, and completeness. Conduct supplier audits and work directly with suppliers to resolve quality issues and improve incoming part consistency. Use CMM output and dimensional data tovalidatepart conformance and support statistically driven decisions. Develop and implement statistical models, SPC charts, capability analyses, and process controls. Ensure compliance to AS9100, DFMEA practices, Six Sigma methodologies, and ASTM E595 guidelines. Workcross functionallywith Production, Engineering, and Supply Chain to improve yields, reduce escapes, and elevate process robustness. Supportfirst articleinspections,serialization, traceability, and documentation efforts as systems and processes mature. Provide technical guidanceandschedules toinspectors, technicians, and operators on best practices and interpretation of requirements. Required Experience / Capability: Commitment to Excellence. Attention to Detail. Pride in Workmanship. 10+ years of experience in Quality Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related technical roles. BS degree in an Engineering discipline (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or related). Strongexpertisein GD&T, drawing interpretation, and precision dimensional validation. Proven experience with NCMR, MRB, and leading structuredrootcauseinvestigations. Familiarity with statistical process control, capability studies, anddatadrivendecision making. Knowledge of AS9100, FMEA, Six Sigma methodologies, and relevant industry standards. Additional Desired Experience / Capability: Background working with machined parts, carbon fiber components, and/or precision mechanical assemblies. Certification(s) such as Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, ASQ CQE, or similar. Experience creating process control plans and quality documentation in a startup or newfacility environment. Benefits Summary: 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year 11 paid Holidays Employee Stock Purchase Plan Tuition Assistance Program Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100% Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal . If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at [emailprotected] .