Diamond Turning Technician

Job Purpose As a Single Point Diamond Turning Technician within the Fabrication Team, you will be responsible for the manufacture of precision infrared and visible optical components to exacting customer specifications. You will set, operate and optimise ultra precision diamond turning machinery to produce optical surfaces with high dimensional accuracy and exceptional surface finish requirements. The role involves machining a variety of optical materials while maintaining micron and sub micron tolerances, carrying out dimensional and surface quality inspections, and ensuring all components conform to drawing, process and customer requirements. You will be expected to take ownership of your work from machine setup and process preparation through to final inspection, maintaining the highest standards of quality, cleanliness, workmanship and traceability throughout the manufacturing process. Key Responsibilities Set, operate and optimise Single Point Diamond Turning machines to manufacture precision optical components. Interpret engineering drawings, specifications and manufacturing documentation accurately. Manufacture components to micron and sub micron dimensional tolerances and optical surface quality requirements. Select and install appropriate tooling, fixtures and machine parameters for production activities. Verify machine set up, tooling condition and process parameters prior to manufacture. Produce first off components and conduct in process inspections to ensure process conformity. Monitor machine performance and make appropriate process adjustments to maintain quality and repeatability. Inspect finished components using precision metrology and measurement equipment. Carry out optical surface inspections in accordance with applicable standards and customer requirements. Identify defects, contamination, handling damage, scratches, chips or other non conformances and escalate where required. Clean components using approved methods while maintaining strict optical cleanliness standards. Complete process sheets, inspection records and production documentation accurately. Maintain full product traceability throughout the manufacturing process. Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions and approved manufacturing processes. Understand and comply with TPM requirements and contribute to maintaining equipment in optimum condition. Maintain a clean, organised and controlled working environment appropriate for precision optical manufacturing. Handle delicate and high-value optical materials and components with care at all stages of manufacture and inspection. Work effectively both independently and as part of a wider fabrication team. Manage workload and priorities effectively to meet production schedules and delivery requirements. Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, yield and repeatability. Support Continuous Improvement and Lean Manufacturing activities. Report equipment issues, tooling concerns, quality problems and process abnormalities promptly. Comply with all company health & safety, quality and environmental procedures. The responsibilities listed above are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all tasks to be performed. Additional duties are likely to be required as directed by the Department Manager. Working Environment The role is based within a precision optical fabrication environment where components may be small, delicate and high value. The successful candidate must be comfortable working in a controlled manufacturing environment and maintaining consistently high standards of cleanliness and housekeeping. Due to the nature of the products, careful handling, attention to detail and adherence to documented processes are essential. Key Relationships You are to work closely with the department, passing on the necessary skills and providing assistance. You will have close contact with your supervisor, expressing any concerns o