Mechanical Engineer – Precision Opto-Mechanical Systems

Location: Boston, MA (on-site required)

Type: Full-time

About the Role

We are seeking a highly hands-on Mechanical Engineer to design, build, and refine precision opto-mechanical systems. This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of design, prototyping, and real-world hardware—someone who can move seamlessly from CAD to the machine shop to final system alignment.

You will play a critical role in developing robust, manufacturable assemblies for advanced optical instrumentation, with a strong emphasis on stability, precision, and scalability.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop precision mechanical components and assemblies using SolidWorks or Onshape (other tools can be considered)
• Create, maintain, and release detailed 2D drawings and 3D models, including GD&T where appropriate
• Translate prototype designs into manufacturable, scalable assemblies
• Work hands-on in the lab to build, test, and iterate on mechanical and opto-mechanical systems
• Develop mechanically stable optical assemblies with strong resistance to vibration and thermal drift
• Perform precision optical alignment and validate system performance
• Collaborate with electrical, optical, and software engineers to integrate complete systems
• Source components, materials, and vendors; manage BOMs and part procurement
• Interface with machine shops and vendors to ensure high-quality fabrication
• Contribute to design reviews, tolerance analysis, and reliability improvements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design for precision systems (or equivalent hands-on experience)
• Proficiency in SolidWorks or Onshape
• Strong experience creating and maintaining engineering drawings (2D) and CAD assemblies (3D)
• Hands-on experience with CNC machining, milling machines, and machine shop practices
• Experience building and aligning optical or opto-mechanical systems
• Understanding of mechanical stability, vibration mitigation, and thermal effects
• Experience designing for manufacturability (DFM) and assembly (DFA)
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, prototype-driven environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with optical instrumentation (e.g., OCT, spectroscopy, laser systems)
• Familiarity with precision alignment techniques (kinematic mounts, flexures, etc.)
• Knowledge of materials selection for low CTE and high stability applications
• Experience transitioning prototypes to volume production
• Familiarity with vendors, fabrication processes, and supply chain management

What We’re Looking For

• Extremely hands-on—you enjoy building as much as designing
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on precision and quality
• Ability to take ownership from concept through production
• Comfortable working across disciplines in a small, fast-moving team
• Practical problem-solver who can iterate quickly and effectively

Why Join Us

• Work on cutting-edge optical systems and instrumentation
• High ownership and direct impact on product development
• Fast iteration cycles—design, build, test, repeat
• Collaborative, engineering-driven environment