Request :
Estel is now looking for an NPI Engineer for our Production line in Chastrès, Belgium. The NPI Engineer will support the development and industrialization of advanced optical transceiver modules. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in mechanical design, optical module packaging, assembly processes, and NPI execution. Experience of FAU (Fiber Array Unit) machines for optical alignment, fibre attach, and precision assembly is a merit.
This role is highly cross-functional, working closely with R&D, optics, electronics, reliability, and manufacturing teams to bring optical transceiver designs from prototype to mass production.
Key Responsibilities :
Mechanical & Packaging Engineering
Perform geometric, tolerance analysis, and material selection for precision assembly.
Collaborate with electrical, optical and thermal engineers to ensure robust system integration.
Optical Module Assembly & Process Development
Develop and qualify assembly processes such as:
- Fiber attach and optical alignment (active and passive)
- FAU, PM fibre, PIC, glass interposer handling, placement, and bonding
- Soldering, epoxy dispense/cure, laser welding, cleaning
- Component assembly such as lens, isolator, connector mating, hermetic sealing.
Define assembly jigs, fixtures, and tooling for NPI and mass production.
Conduct process capability studies and drive DFM/DFA improvements.
NPI Execution
Lead NPI builds for transceiver modules, from EVT/DVT into pilot and MP.
Operate, configure, and troubleshoot FAU NPI machines for test runs and engineering builds.
Develop SOPs, WI, BOMs, ECNs, and process documents.
Support FA (Failure Analysis) and root cause investigations for yield and performance issues.
Interface with CM partners to ensure smooth production transfer.
FAU NPI Machine Operation & Optimization
Operate FAU automated equipment for:
- Fiber alignment
- Fiber attach (UV/thermal bonding)
- Optical coupling validation
Optimize machine recipes, bonding parameters, and alignment algorithms.
Monitor machine performance, diagnose issues, and work with vendors for maintenance or upgrades.
Train technicians and operators on best practices for FAU-based assembly processes.
Qualifications:
Required :
- Master's degree in mechanical engineering, Opto-Mechanics, Mechatronics, or related field.
- 3+ years’ experience in photonics assembly, packaging, opto-mechanical design, or NPI.
- Hands-on experience operating or developing processes on FAU / fiber attach NPI machines.
- Strong CAD experience (SolidWorks, Creo, or equivalent).
- Familiarity with GD&T, tolerance stack-up, precision mechanics, and optical coupling principles.
- Working knowledge of DFM, DFA, SPC, and NPI process flows.
- Language: English on C1 Advanced to C2 Proficient level
Preferred :
- Experience with PIC, Optical component packaging, micro-optics, active alignment, and optical test.
- Knowledge of QSFP, OSFP, SFP, CFP, or other telecom/datacom multisource agreement form factors.
- Experience with high-volume optical component manufacturing.
- Driver License.
Workplaces
This position is be based in our headquarter in Walcourt, Belgium.
4 Allée des Plantains, 5650 Chastrès Belgium
Reporting
The NPI engineer reports to the Production Manager and --- CTO.
Contact person
hr@e-s-tel.com
