What are the responsibilities and job description for the Optical Mechanical Research Engineer position at Northwest Talent Solutions LLC?
Optical-Mechanical Research Engineer Applied R&D (On-Site)Northwest Talent Solutions is partnering with a confidential global technology organization to hire an Optical-Mechanical Research Engineer for an applied research team focused on next-generation test, measurement, and photonics technologies.This role is ideal for engineers who enjoy working at the intersection of precision mechanical engineering, optics/photonics, and hands-on laboratory experimentation, and who want to see research ideas move from concept to prototype and into commercial products.What You'll Do:Design and develop innovative opto-mechanical and photonics packaging solutions for advanced hardware systemsIdentify emerging optical and photonic mounting or packaging technologies and evaluate their applicabilityPerform mechanical design, analysis, simulation, and tolerance studies using modern CAD and FEA toolsBuild and test prototype hardware to validate feasibility and performanceCollaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams spanning optics, photonics, electronics, and softwareSupport the transfer of successful research concepts into manufacturable, commercial productsDocument designs clearly for fabrication, inspection, and assembly, including GD&TWhat We're Looking For:Bachelor's degree with 10 years of experience, master's degree with 5 years, or PhD with 3 years in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related fieldDemonstrated experience designing mechanical systems for optical or photonic applicationsStrong understanding of precision machining processes, materials, and tolerancesHands-on laboratory experience with prototyping, measurement, and inspection equipmentAdvanced proficiency with 3D CAD tools, FEA, and physical prototyping workflowsExperience documenting designs for fabrication, including GD&TStrong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, research-oriented, on-site environmentNice to Have:Experience with opto-mechanical or photonics packagingFamiliarity with photonic integrated circuits (PICs)Experience designing tooling or fixtures for alignment, assembly, or bonding of optical componentsExposure to optical design or ray-tracing tools (e.g., Zemax, Code V, or similar)Knowledge of MEMS, NOEMS, or lab automation and data acquisitionWork Environment:Fully on-site role requiring close collaboration with research and engineering teamsAccess to well-equipped laboratories, precision machining resources, and advanced simulation toolsRelocation assistance may be available for qualified candidatesThis opportunity is well-suited for engineers who are curious, hands-on, and motivated to create innovative technologies that have real-world impact.