Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Saronic Technologies•Austin, TX

About The Position

Saronic Technologies is seeking an Opto-Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, integration, and qualification of imaging systems aboard its Autonomous Service Vessels. The role bridges optics, mechanical design, and environmental constraints to develop ruggedized camera enclosures, mounting systems, and sensor integration strategies suited to harsh maritime conditions. The engineer will collaborate with hardware, perception, and autonomy teams to ensure vision systems are robust, reliable, and high-performing at sea. The position involves designing optomechanical assemblies for cameras and imaging sensors; defining system requirements and integration approaches; conducting tolerance analysis; selecting and integrating components within size, weight, and power constraints; and planning and leading environmental and performance validation. The engineer will also support prototyping and on-water testing and maintain design and analysis documentation throughout the product lifecycle. The role requires a relevant bachelor's degree or higher and at least two years of experience designing optomechanical systems or integrating cameras in rugged environments. Preferred qualifications include experience with maritime or aerospace platforms, autonomous systems, regulated hardware, and shock and vibration testing, as well as relevant professional certification. The listed physical demands include extended periods sitting at a desk and using a computer, occasional standing and walking, manual dexterity and visual acuity, occasional reaching or bending, and occasionally lifting or carrying items up to 20 pounds. For U.S.-based roles, access to export-controlled information requires U.S. Person status as defined by U.S. law.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or greater in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field.
At least 2 years of experience designing optomechanical systems or integrating cameras in rugged environments.
Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks or Creo and mechanical analysis tools such as FEA and thermal modeling.
Proficiency in producing detailed engineering drawings for prototyping and manufacturing.
Proficiency with optical principles, including alignment, lens selection, MTF, and field-of-view constraints.
Experience with environmental sealing (IP67 or higher), thermal management, and vibration isolation.
Familiarity with camera sensor technologies, including visible, IR, and multispectral sensors, and their mechanical considerations.

Nice To Haves

Experience working on autonomous systems or robotics platforms (ground, air, or maritime).
Background in defense, aerospace, or other regulated hardware environments.
Experience with optical coatings, anti-reflective treatments, or lens-fogging mitigation.
Experience with maritime autonomy challenges such as dynamic environments, variable lighting, and low-contrast targets.
Proven success developing, integrating, and validating optical and sensor systems on maritime or aerospace platforms.
Experience with design and testing for shock and vibration environments.
Prior experience working on DoD programs or unmanned maritime systems.
A professional engineering license or similar professional certification.
ASME Y14.5 certification.

Responsibilities

Design and develop optomechanical assemblies for cameras and imaging sensors, including lens mounts, enclosures, gimbals, and thermal control elements.
Collaborate with hardware, perception, and autonomy engineers to define mechanical and optical camera-system requirements, including field of view, lensing, placement, and alignment.
Perform detailed tolerance analysis to ensure component structural integrity in vibration- and shock-prone marine environments.
Select and integrate commercial off-the-shelf and custom components to meet size, weight, and power constraints.
Develop test plans and lead environmental and performance validation, including IP-rating, vibration, and temperature-cycling tests.
Support rapid prototyping and iterative development, including 3D printing, machining, and on-water testing.
Maintain detailed design, analysis, and revision documentation in support of product lifecycle and compliance needs.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical insurance; Saronic pays 100% of the employee premium and 80% of dependent premiums.
Dental and vision insurance; Saronic pays 100% of the basic-plan employee premium and 80% of dependent premiums.
Generous paid time off and holidays.
Paid maternity and paternity leave.
Competitive salary with opportunities for performance-based bonuses.
401(k) retirement plan.
Stock options.
Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage.
Discounted pet insurance, including a 24/7 telehealth helpline.
Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office.