Mechanical Engineer

Rigaku•Auburn Hills, MI

53d•Onsite

About The Position

Join Rigaku in shaping a better world through new perspectives! This role involves designing and developing precision opto-mechanical systems for X-ray optics. You will collaborate with scientists and engineers, perform analyses, design various mechanical components, and support laboratory experiments. The position also includes troubleshooting, working with manufacturing partners, and documenting designs. Reasonable accommodations are provided to ensure individuals can perform essential duties satisfactorily.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field.
Experience with precision motion systems, nanopositioning devices, and interferometric alignment.
Familiarity with vacuum systems, vacuum compatible materials, and clean assembly practices.
Background in supporting experiments at synchrotron or laboratory X-ray sources.
Experience collaborating with scientists on exploratory or R&D projects.
Research experience in X-ray optics, synchrotron instrumentation, or related fields.
Hands-on capability and experience with X-ray optical components (mirrors, monochromators, multilayers, zone plates, etc.).
Proficiency with 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks).
Understanding of opto-mechanical principles: alignment sensitivity, thermal effects, vibration, and stability.
Strong analytical and experimental problem-solving skills.
High attention to detail and precision.
Ability to work independently in a research setting while collaborating across disciplines.
Comfortable with iterative design and experimental uncertainty.
Good technical communication skills (written and verbal).

Nice To Haves

Hands-on capability and experience with X-ray optical components (mirrors, monochromators, multilayers, zone plates, etc.).
Familiarity with vacuum systems, vacuum compatible materials, and clean assembly practices.
Experience with precision motion systems, nano positioning stages, and interferometric alignment.

Responsibilities

Design and develop precision opto-mechanical systems for X-ray optics, including mirrors, monochromators, x-ray sources, and other elements.
Collaborate with X-ray optical scientists and engineers to translate optical and experimental requirements into mechanical designs.
Perform tolerance, thermal, and structural analyses to ensure optical performance and mechanical stability.
Design ultra-stable mounts, stages, vacuum-compatible structures, housings and alignment mechanisms.
Create detailed 3D CAD models and engineering drawings with appropriate GD&T.
Support laboratory experiments including assembly, integration, alignment, and testing of X-ray optical systems.
Participate in system characterization, and performance optimization.
Troubleshoot mechanical and opto-mechanical issues during experimental operation.
Support prototype build, optical alignment, integration, and verification test.
Troubleshoot mechanical and opto-mechanical issues during development and production.
Work with manufacturing partners to ensure designs are manufacturable, testable, and cost-effective.
Document designs, analyses, test results, engineering changes, and design iterations.