Job Title:  Mechanical Engineer

Special Optics is seeking a skilled Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, and support complex opto‑mechanical systems used in advanced optical applications. In this role, you will guide concepts from early collaboration with optical engineers and clients all the way through manufacturable designs, documentation, and prototype build support.

This position provides a mix of hands‑on engineering, design ownership, client interaction, and cross‑functional collaboration with our in‑house polishing, coating, machining, and assembly teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Transform early‑stage concepts into manufacturable opto‑mechanical designs in collaboration with clients and optical engineering staff.
• Develop accurate 3D models and prototypes using SolidWorks or similar CAD tools.
• Lead and support design reviews with customers to ensure all requirements and constraints are met.
• Own mechanical design for new products and contribute to updates of legacy designs under guidance from Senior Engineers. Create and maintain engineering documentation, including detail drawings, assemblies, BOMs, and work instructions, to ensure manufacturability and repeatable quality.
• Partner with Sales during quotation phases to evaluate feasibility, identify risk areas, and ensure accurate cost and effort estimation.
• Conduct engineering analyses to evaluate design alternatives and recommend optimized solutions.
• Develop fixture designs and application‑specific test procedures for both new and existing products.
• Ensure all deliverables meet defined quality and performance standards.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in creating and interpreting detailed drawings to ASME Y14.5M standards.
• Ability to assess tolerance stack‑ups and ensure functional, manufacturable designs.
• Excellent technical writing and communication skills for collaboration across teams and with clients.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust, collaborate effectively, and solve problems in a team‑oriented environment.
• Self‑motivated and comfortable working with minimal supervision when needed.
• Hands‑on engineering mindset—capable of assembling, testing, and troubleshooting prototypes.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software and methods.
• Experience with thermal analysis software and heat‑transfer simulation methods.
• Knowledge of optical design principles and opto‑mechanical system behavior.
• Familiarity with both subtractive and additive manufacturing processes.
• Ability to perform metrology tasks using tools such as CMMs.
• Experience in machining (CAM programming, milling, turning) is a plus.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology.
• 3+ years of engineering experience in a design or manufacturing environment.
• Strong background in micron‑level mechanical assembly design and precision engineering.