Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer - Photonics

Observable Space

1d

About The Position

As a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer, Photonics, you will work across our full product line, from robotic ground-based telescope systems to future space-based optical payloads. You will design and integrate precision optomechanical systems that enable advanced photonic performance, including fiber-coupled systems, laser-based subsystems, and high-sensitivity imaging assemblies.
This role is deeply hands-on: you will develop precision assemblies, work closely with optical and electrical engineers, support alignment and integration, and debug complex system-level issues at the intersection of optics, mechanics, and environment. You will report to the Head of Mechanical Engineering (or Optics/Hardware Lead, depending on org structure).

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in optomechanical engineering, preferably in photonics, aerospace, or precision instrumentation.
• Strong proficiency in mechanical design fundamentals, including precision tolerancing and alignment-sensitive assemblies.
• Experience with CAD tools (SolidWorks, NX, or similar).
• Experience designing systems involving optical or photonic components (e.g., fiber optics, lasers, detectors).
• Familiarity with FEA tools (ANSYS, Nastran, or similar) for structural and thermal analysis.
• Hands-on experience with fabrication, machining, and assembly of precision systems.
• Ability to read technical drawings and collaborate across disciplines.
• Strong debugging and problem-solving skills, especially in multidisciplinary systems.
• Ability to thrive in fast-paced, iterative development environments.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with photonics systems, including fiber alignment, laser stabilization, and optical coupling techniques.
• Direct experience designing, integrating, and testing Adaptive Optics (AO) systems and Wavefront Sensors.
• Familiarity with vibration isolation and environmental constraints (thermal cycling, vacuum, launch loads).
• Experience with STOP analysis and system-level performance verification.
• Knowledge of system engineering workflows, including interface control documents (ICDs) and verification processes.
• Experience working in early-stage or startup environments with rapid prototyping cycles.
• Basic scripting or automation (Python, MATLAB) for analysis, alignment, or test workflows.
• Experience with Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) and the opto-mechanical challenges of high-bandwidth modem and waveform management systems.
• Passion for astronomy, physics, and scientific exploration.

Responsibilities

• Architect, design, and document optomechanical systems supporting photonic subsystems for ground and space applications.
• Design precision assemblies for fiber coupling, laser integration, optical benches, detectors, and alignment-sensitive components.
• Lead the opto-mechanical design, analysis, and validation of high-performance Wavefront Sensors.
• Perform STOP analysis (Structural, Thermal, Optical Performance) to ensure system stability and optical alignment under operational conditions.
• Conduct FEA simulations to evaluate structural, thermal, and vibrational performance with emphasis on minimizing optical drift and deformation.
• Collaborate closely with optical engineers to integrate photonic components including lasers, waveguides, fiber optics, and detectors, and implement strategies for Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) systems.
• Collaborate with Electrical Engineering and Software Engineering to test, validate, and iterate on designs, specifically supporting the mechanical integration of modem components and waveform management subsystems.
• Develop and simulate control systems for adaptive optics, integrating mechanical, optical, and software components to correct for system aberrations and atmospheric turbulence.
• Create atmospheric turbulence models and simulate various environmental effects on wavefront error.
• Own mechanical aspects of system integration, including tolerance stack-ups, mounting strategies, and environmental robustness.
• Support prototyping, assembly, integration, and test—including hands-on troubleshooting of optomechanical issues.
• Participate in design reviews (PDR, CDR, etc.) and ensure systems meet manufacturability, reliability, and performance requirements.
• Contribute to product lifecycle development, from concept through production and long-term deployment in remote or space environments.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed