R&D Engineer – Specialty Fiber Preform Processes

Join the international teams of Prysmian's Optical Fiber R&D organization and contribute to the development and industrialization of next-generation specialty optical fibers at the Douvrin plant, France. Description : Reporting to Fiber R&D Management, you will drive glass preparation, glass-structure assembly and drilling process development, qualification and scale-up for specialty fibers, especially Multi-Core Fiber, PANDA fiber and reduced-diameter fiber.

You will support innovation projects from laboratory development through industrial implementation, with a strong focus on product performance, process robustness, manufacturing efficiency and cost competitiveness. In a multicultural and multisite environment, you will: Develop, optimize and industrialize manufacturing processes used for specialty fiber preforms and optical fibers. Support the development of advanced products including Multi-Core Fibers, Polarization Maintaining Fibers, reduced-diameter fibers and future specialty fiber technologies.

Define, execute and analyze experimental programs to improve process capability, product quality and manufacturing efficiency. Establish process specifications, operating windows and qualification criteria based on experimental results and statistical analysis. Lead process qualification and validation activities in collaboration with Product R&D, Quality, Process Control and Manufacturing teams.

Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on yield improvement, cost reduction, process robustness and operational excellence. Investigate process deviations, perform root-cause analysis and implement sustainable corrective actions. Support technology transfer and deployment of new products and processes into manufacturing. Contribute to equipment upgrades, tooling development, metrology improvements and industrial investment projects.

Collaborate with international R&D teams and production sites to share knowledge and best practices. Contribute to innovation activities through patents, publications, technical benchmarking and technology watch. Develop technical expertise and actively share knowledge within the organization. Safety First: In our industrial environment, safety is paramount. You will: Apply and enforce health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Promote the prevention of occupational risks and control of pollution and nuisances. Adhere to and advocate for best practices in safety and continuous improvement. Travel within Prysmian's international organization may occasionally be required. Profile : Master's degree in Engineering or Science (Materials Science, Physics, Optics, Photonics, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, Process Engineering or similar); PhD is a plus.

Experience in industrial R&D, process development, manufacturing engineering or technology development. Knowledge of optical fiber manufacturing, glass processing, deposition technologies, plasma processes, precision assembly, glass drilling or advanced manufacturing processes is an advantage. Strong experimental mindset with demonstrated capabilities in data analysis, statistical methods and problem solving.

Experience with Design of Experiments (DoE), process characterization and industrial qualification methodologies. Knowledge of programming, data analytics and database tools (Python, SQL, statistical software) is appreciated. Fluent English is mandatory; French is a plus. Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary and international teams. Autonomous, rigorous, innovative, hands-on and results-oriented.

Strong commitment to safety, quality and continuous improvement. At Prysmian, innovation, teamplay, passion and belonging are part of our DNA. We offer: Growth Opportunities: Access to resources that promote individual responsibility, employee development, and a culture of feedback. Inclusive Environment: A strong commitment to inclusion and gender equality, with e