Precision Mechanical Engineer

Title: Precision Mechanical Engineer
Location: Santa Clara, CA
Job Type: FTE/Permanent
Job Overview:
We are currently seeking a talented Mechanical Engineer (title and level based on experience and education) to join an innovative R&D team. This role focuses on precision mechanical design and opto-mechanical systems , especially in the field of optical interferometry . You will be involved in full-cycle product development, including design, modeling, prototype assembly, testing, and process development.
Key Responsibilities:

• Design mechanical assemblies to precisely position and support optical assemblies with very high stability.
• Analyze design performance through 3D CAD and finite element analysis (FEA) simulations.
• Characterize solutions for optical stability, repeatability, and reliability through experiments and structured test plans.
• Develop manufacturing processes for the assembly and alignment of the products you create.
• Design tools and fixtures to aid in alignment, fabrication, gluing, and assembly of lasers, interferometers, and optical components.
• Define, implement, and transfer manufacturing processes to production staff.
• Measure laser properties and optical performance to ensure product specifications are met.
• Generate and implement Engineering Change Orders (ECO).
• Troubleshoot technical opto-mechanical production problems and support product repair activities.
• Work with other R&D engineers to support and participate in New Product Introduction activities.
• Maintain knowledge in your primary area of expertise and understanding of technologies and standards required for the development of the products.
• Protect IP through disclosures, patent applications, defensive publications, or similar.
• Provide accurate and detailed requirements documentation for procurement and fabrication of mechanical components.
• Interface with customers to determine their needs, to present options in a manner consistent with business principles, often offering out-of-the-box solutions beneficial to both parties.

Qualifications:
Education & Experience:

• A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and 5-10 years relevant experience.
• Expertise in precision machining, kinematic design, precision motion control, optics, adhesives, and vacuum technology.
• Experience with tooling design for precision (opto-)mechanical assemblies.
• Proficiency in GD&T and developing tolerance chains using statistical techniques to ensure in-spec performance of assembly.
• Experience with exact constraint design (kinematic principles).
• Understanding of precision alignment & metrology techniques.
• Working knowledge of advanced manufacturing technologies for precision mechanical components
• Writing technical reports in both detailed written format and concise pictorial oral presentation format.
• Direct experience in the specification and testing of optical based integrated systems.
• Attention to detail. Demonstrate persistence in identifying the cause of unusual results - good problem solver.
• Ability to work independently toward project goals with general guidance.
• Supports company values including ethical conduct and high integrity in all actions.
• Complies with health and safety policies and procedures.
• Complies with the Clean Room Protocol when in a clean room environment.

Other Desirable Skills and Abilities:

• Reliability analysis of mechanical components and assemblies.
• Understanding of degradation mechanisms and acceleration factors.
• Analyzing test data and conducting statistical analysis.
• Ability to layout mechanical arrangements for optical testing.
• General knowledge of operations, including procurement, planning, manufacturing, test engineering, and quality systems.
• Execution of assigned tasks in a time-efficient and cost-effective manner.
• MS or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or similar technical field.