Principal Opto-Mechanical Engineer
On-siteBoulder, Colorado, United States
Job Summary
Initiate and lead the design and specification of complex, next-generation opto-mechanical systems, ultra-high vacuum chambers, and mechanical infrastructure from the component level up to the system level. Partner with physicists and subject matter experts to architect robust mechanical solutions for optical assemblies, ensuring high-precision stability, thermal performance, and alignment integrity. Establish and enforce rigorous design standards and best practices, including leading critical design reviews, performing advanced tolerance analysis, and driving Design for Manufacturing and Assembly to ensure scalability. Provide high-level technical leadership and oversight for hands-on assembly, alignment, and system integration of critical opto-mechanical designs. Mentor junior team members, generate internal training documentation, and drive technical growth and standardization within the engineering organization. Troubleshoot complex technical issues across the product lifecycle, both at Atom and off-site customer facilities. Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering
- 10+ years opto-mechanical design experience
- 8+ years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment
- Deep expertise and demonstrated leadership in the design and build of complex opto-mechanical systems
- Proven track record of driving complex technical initiatives from conception through deployment
- Mastery of SolidWorks, PDM, or equivalent design and data management software
- Strong background with FEA (meshing, modal analysis, thermal analysis, etc.) and corresponding first order analysis
- Deep understanding of material science related to adhesives in an optical environment
- Ability to own and mentor team members in DFMA, tolerancing, drawings to ASME Y14.5M and ISO 10110
- Strong knowledge of first order optics and aberration theory
- Robust history in precision mechanisms and kinematic systems
- Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds
Desired Qualifications
- advanced degree
- Ability to work effectively in an open, collaborative environment
- Excellent communication, listening, and people skills
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