Supplier Development Engineer

Supplier Development EngineerMesh Optical Technologies was founded on the belief that optical photons will be at the center of advanced technologies in the coming century. Making advanced technology ubiquitous means building at scale, and that's exactly what we're doing at Mesh.We are seeking a Supplier Development Engineer to build the supply chain that makes this possible: finding, qualifying, and developing suppliers who can produce hardware at sub-micron tolerances and high-volume scale. You will work at the boundary between our engineering teams and our supply base, turning demanding internal specifications into capable, repeatable external manufacturing processes.Responsibilities:Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers, processes, and equipment capable of manufacturing precision photonic and electro-mechanical hardware at scaleDevelop and manage a supplier ecosystem for precision optics, photonic components, coatings, ultrafast interconnects, and micro-mechanical assembliesLead supplier qualification activities, including process capability assessment, first-article inspection, and production readiness reviews for components with sub-micron tolerances and demanding environmental requirementsDefine and implement incoming quality requirements, in-line inspection methods, and supplier process controls; develop supplier guidelines, specifications, and reference documentationLead supplier-side root-cause analysis and corrective action for quality, yield, and reliability issues, driving improvements that directly impact product performanceCo-develop new manufacturing processes with suppliers for challenging components and assemblies, translating internal design intent into producible supplier workflowsPartner with mechanical, optical, process, and manufacturing engineering teams to ensure supplier capabilities align with product requirements and production ramp timelinesTrack and report supplier performance metrics (quality, delivery, yield, responsiveness) and drive accountability against targetsSupport supplier capacity planning and production ramp execution for new product introductionsQualifications:Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering, physics, or a related disciplineStrong fundamentals in mechanical engineering, manufacturing processes, or semiconductor/photonic fabricationExperience working with external suppliers or contract manufacturers in a technical capacity, or demonstrated strong aptitude and motivation to develop supplier management skillsAbility to read and interpret engineering drawings, including GD&TStrong communication and problem-solving skills, with comfort working across organizational boundariesWillingness to work extended hours and weekends as neededWillingness to travel to supplier sites as neededPreferred Experience:Process engineering or mechanical engineering experience in a production or manufacturing environmentExperience in high-volume production environments, including supplier qualification and production rampGD&T proficiency, including experience defining tolerances and inspection requirements for precision componentsExperience with supplier quality tools and methodologies (e.g., PPAP, FMEA, 8D, SPC, process capability studies)Background in optics, photonics, semiconductor, or precision manufacturing supply chainsExperience with incoming inspection methods, metrology equipment, or quality management systemsFamiliarity with sourcing and procurement processes, including RFQ development and supplier negotiationCompensation and Benefits:Pay range: Supplier Development Engineer: $110,000.00 - $150,000.00/per yearTitle and base salary are determined on a case by case basis commensurate with experience and merit.In addition to base salary, compensation for this role includes:Eligibility for long-term incentives including company stock options and discretionary bonuses awarded for exceptional achievements.Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance with significant cost covered by the company for yourself and dependents.Paid parental leave and flexible PTO (3 weeks accrued vacation and 10 company holidays per year).401(k) retirement plan access.Relocation assistance to sunny Los Angeles.