Opto-Mechanical / Mechatronics Engineer

Halma plc•Oceanside, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Ocean Optics is seeking an Opto-Mechanical / Mechatronics Engineer to design and deliver precision optical systems that integrate mechanical structures, actuators, sensors, and control elements. This role bridges optics, mechanics, and embedded motion systems to enable high-performance, automated, and production-ready photonic products. The engineer will work across R&D and manufacturing to develop systems that are not only optically excellent, but also actively controlled, stable, and scalable.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Optical Engineering, or related field
3+ years of experience in opto-mechanical and/or mechatronic system design
Strong proficiency with CAD tools (SolidWorks, Creo, NX, or equivalent)
Working knowledge of: Optical components and alignment principles
Working knowledge of: Precision mechanical design and materials
Working knowledge of: Actuators, sensors, and basic control concepts
Hands-on experience with prototyping, assembly, and testing
Ability to work effectively in fast paced, cross functional teams

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or PhD in Mechanical, Optical, Mechatronics, or Applied Physics disciplines
Experience with photonics, spectroscopy, LiDAR, AR/VR, or semiconductor equipment
Familiarity with optical design tools (Zemax, Code V, etc.)
Experience with: Piezo, voice coil, stepper, or servo based motion systems
Experience with: Embedded hardware interfaces (SPI, I²C, UART) at a system level
Experience with: Thermal and vibration mitigation for optical stability
Experience designing systems for automation or high-volume manufacturing

Responsibilities

Design precision opto-mechanical assemblies for optical, photonic, or imaging systems
Translate optical prescriptions into robust mechanical architectures
Perform optical and mechanical tolerance analysis
Develop detailed 3D CAD models, drawings, and GD&T for prototypes and production
Design and integrate actuators, motors, flexures, and kinematic mounts for optical positioning and alignment
Select and integrate sensors (position, temperature, vibration, encoders, photodiodes, etc.)
Support development of closed loop control systems in collaboration with firmware and controls engineers
Enable automated alignment, calibration, or scanning functions within optical systems
Consider dynamic effects (thermal drift, vibration, hysteresis, backlash) in system design
Lead prototype builds, optical alignment, and system bring up
Define mechanical and mechatronic test methods and acceptance criteria
Design for DFMA, DFMAT, and serviceability
Support transfer from R&D to pilot and volume manufacturing
Work with vendors and contract manufacturers on precision components and assemblies
Partner closely with optical, electrical, firmware, and systems engineers
Participate in design reviews, risk assessments, and root cause analyses
Contribute to system level trade studies balancing performance, cost, and reliability
Other duties as assigned