ZipRecruiter
Principal Mechanical Engineer (Opto-Mechanical)
ZipRecruiter, Jacksonville, Florida, United States, 32290
Overview
Principal Mechanical Engineer (Opto-Mechanical) Help Build Next- Space Infrastructure! Jacksonville, FL | Hybrid Opportunity Summary
We are a rapidly growing startup at the forefront of space technology, working to eliminate one of the most pressing challenges in modern missions: power availability in orbit. By building a scalable platform for space-based energy transfer, we are enabling spacecraft to operate longer, transmit more data, and unlock new mission capabilities. This role is ideal for a hands-on engineer who thrives in fast-paced environments and wants to influence the development of advanced spacecraft systems directly. As a Principal Mechanical Engineer (Opto-Mechanical), you will design, analyze, and integrate critical components that bridge the gap between optical precision and mechanical reliability in space. This is an opportunity to make a tangible impact on future missions while growing alongside a team of seasoned innovators. About Us
Our team is composed of experienced engineers and entrepreneurs with proven track records in space and advanced technology ventures. Backed by strong investors and a mission-driven vision, we are building a first-of-its-kind orbital energy infrastructure. Joining us means being part of a company where ideas quickly turn into hardware, and where every contribution directly shapes the future of space exploration. Responsibilities
Lead the design, development, and integration of opto-mechanical systems and hardware for spacecraft applications. Perform optical and mechanical analyses to ensure reliability under the demanding conditions of space. Oversee precision alignment, stabilization, and mounting of optical systems. Develop, implement, and execute test and validation protocols for opto-mechanical systems. Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to resolve integration and performance challenges. Create and maintain detailed technical documentation, including design specifications and test reports. Support procurement, vendor management, and logistics for custom optical and mechanical components. Manage engineering schedules, deliverables, and budgets related to opto-mechanical efforts. Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues impacting system performance or mission success. Qualifications
Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field (Masters or PhD ). 5+ years of hands-on experience designing and building opto-mechanical systems, ideally in aerospace or a similar high-reliability industry. Strong understanding of opto-mechanical design for space or other mission-critical environments. Minimum 2 years of Zemax (or equivalent) lens design experience, plus basic stray light analysis skills (FRED, LightTools, or similar). Proficiency in CAD tools for mechanical and optical design. Fiber optics knowledge, including splicing, termination, inspection, routing, and loss budgeting. Familiarity with basic metrology tools such as interferometry and autocollimators. Applied knowledge of optical aberrations (Seidel, Zernike, chromatic). Demonstrated ability to mentor and support junior engineers and technicians in complex builds. Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work effectively under rapid development timelines. Experience
Expertise in advanced design and integration methods including STOP analysis, optical metrology, and high-power thermal testing. Experience with non-imaging optics, diffractive systems, or solar optics. Basic coding ability in Python or willingness to learn. Knowledge of industry regulations and safety standards relevant to space missions. Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across diverse technical disciplines. Why Join Us
Shape the future of space infrastructure and play a role in groundbreaking missions. Work in a fast-paced, startup environment where your contributions have immediate impact. Collaborate with a passionate and accomplished team of engineers and innovators. Opportunity for career growth and leadership responsibilities as the company scales. Compensation Details
$125,000 - $180,000
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Principal Mechanical Engineer (Opto-Mechanical) Help Build Next- Space Infrastructure! Jacksonville, FL | Hybrid Opportunity Summary
We are a rapidly growing startup at the forefront of space technology, working to eliminate one of the most pressing challenges in modern missions: power availability in orbit. By building a scalable platform for space-based energy transfer, we are enabling spacecraft to operate longer, transmit more data, and unlock new mission capabilities. This role is ideal for a hands-on engineer who thrives in fast-paced environments and wants to influence the development of advanced spacecraft systems directly. As a Principal Mechanical Engineer (Opto-Mechanical), you will design, analyze, and integrate critical components that bridge the gap between optical precision and mechanical reliability in space. This is an opportunity to make a tangible impact on future missions while growing alongside a team of seasoned innovators. About Us
Our team is composed of experienced engineers and entrepreneurs with proven track records in space and advanced technology ventures. Backed by strong investors and a mission-driven vision, we are building a first-of-its-kind orbital energy infrastructure. Joining us means being part of a company where ideas quickly turn into hardware, and where every contribution directly shapes the future of space exploration. Responsibilities
Lead the design, development, and integration of opto-mechanical systems and hardware for spacecraft applications. Perform optical and mechanical analyses to ensure reliability under the demanding conditions of space. Oversee precision alignment, stabilization, and mounting of optical systems. Develop, implement, and execute test and validation protocols for opto-mechanical systems. Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to resolve integration and performance challenges. Create and maintain detailed technical documentation, including design specifications and test reports. Support procurement, vendor management, and logistics for custom optical and mechanical components. Manage engineering schedules, deliverables, and budgets related to opto-mechanical efforts. Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues impacting system performance or mission success. Qualifications
Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field (Masters or PhD ). 5+ years of hands-on experience designing and building opto-mechanical systems, ideally in aerospace or a similar high-reliability industry. Strong understanding of opto-mechanical design for space or other mission-critical environments. Minimum 2 years of Zemax (or equivalent) lens design experience, plus basic stray light analysis skills (FRED, LightTools, or similar). Proficiency in CAD tools for mechanical and optical design. Fiber optics knowledge, including splicing, termination, inspection, routing, and loss budgeting. Familiarity with basic metrology tools such as interferometry and autocollimators. Applied knowledge of optical aberrations (Seidel, Zernike, chromatic). Demonstrated ability to mentor and support junior engineers and technicians in complex builds. Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work effectively under rapid development timelines. Experience
Expertise in advanced design and integration methods including STOP analysis, optical metrology, and high-power thermal testing. Experience with non-imaging optics, diffractive systems, or solar optics. Basic coding ability in Python or willingness to learn. Knowledge of industry regulations and safety standards relevant to space missions. Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across diverse technical disciplines. Why Join Us
Shape the future of space infrastructure and play a role in groundbreaking missions. Work in a fast-paced, startup environment where your contributions have immediate impact. Collaborate with a passionate and accomplished team of engineers and innovators. Opportunity for career growth and leadership responsibilities as the company scales. Compensation Details
$125,000 - $180,000
#J-18808-Ljbffr