Mechanical / Electro-Mechanical Engineer - Optical Systems

<div class="trix-content"> <div> <strong>Location:</strong> San Jose, CA (On-site)</div><div> <strong>Type:</strong> Full-time, initial 3-month engagement with strong potential to extend or convert<br><br> </div><div><strong>About Optopax</strong></div><div>Optopax is a Silicon Valley–based design and OEM manufacturing company delivering integrated AI imaging solutions—from concept through production. We specialize in AI-enabled camera modules, precision optics spanning UV to LWIR, and custom embedded systems for robotics, industrial vision, submersible imaging, biomedical devices, AR/VR, and optical computing. We are a small, highly technical team headquartered in San Jose, CA, building real hardware that ships.<br><br> </div><div><strong>About the Role</strong></div><div>We are looking for a hands-on Mechanical / Electro-Mechanical Engineer who can take loosely defined requirements from optics and test teams and turn them into robust, manufacturable systems. This is not a CAD-only role and not a pure manufacturing role. You will design, build, assemble, test, debug, and iterate optical fixtures, camera test stations, and electro-mechanical subsystems—often under tight timelines. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys being equally comfortable in CAD, at the bench, and on the shop floor, and who understands how design decisions affect assembly, yield, reliability, and cost.<br><br> </div><div><strong>What You’ll Do</strong></div><ul> <li>Design integrated electro-mechanical and opto-mechanical systems for camera modules, optical test fixtures, and precision assemblies</li> <li>Translate specifications from optics, test, and embedded teams into manufacturable hardware designs</li> <li>Create detailed 3D CAD models and production drawings (Fusion 360 preferred)</li> <li>Apply DFM/DFA, GD&T, and tolerance stack-ups to ensure repeatable builds</li> <li>Design and integrate multi-axis motion systems (linear stages, actuators, motors, encoders)</li> <li>Build and evaluate prototypes using 3D printing, CNC machining, and sheet-metal fabrication</li> <li>Assemble and test precision mechanical and optical assemblies, including camera modules and fixtures<br>Develop and run test setups, collect data, and document results</li> <li>Source components and work directly with vendors, machine shops, and optical suppliers</li> <li>Support transition from prototype to low-volume and production builds</li> <li>Collaborate closely with optics, firmware, electronics, and manufacturing teams</li> </ul><div><strong>What You’ll Bring</strong></div><div><strong>Required</strong></div><ul> <li>Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related field with 1-2+ years of professional experience</li> <li>Strong CAD skills (Fusion 360 preferred)</li> <li>Strong experience with DFM/DFA, GD&T, and tolerance analysis</li> <li>Proven hands-on prototyping and fabrication experience (CNC/manual machining, 3D printing, sheet metal, fixtures, jigs)</li> <li>Experience integrating electro-mechanical and motion systems</li> <li>Comfortable working with small, precision mechanical and optical assemblies</li> <li>Experience using and integrating microcontrollers and SBCs into testing platforms</li> <li>Software experience (Python and/or C++) for test or automation</li> <li>Lab-oriented mindset with attention to detail and practical problem solving</li> <li>Clear written and verbal communication skills</li> </ul><div><strong>Nice to Have</strong></div><ul> <li>Familiarity with common optical and motion vendors (e.g., Thorlabs, Edmund Optics, Newport)</li> <li>Experience designing optical test fixtures or camera test systems</li> <li>Control system integration (PLCs, motion controllers, sensors)</li> <li>FEA experience (static, thermal, modal, or nonlinear)</li> <li>Experience working with external manufacturers and machine shops</li> <li>Exposure to early-stage product development and rapid iteration cycles</li> </ul><div><strong>Why Optopax?</strong></div><ul> <li>Work at the intersection of optics, AI, and embedded systems</li> <li>Own hardware from concept through manufacturing</li> <li>See your designs quickly turn into working systems used in real-world applications</li> <li>Join a small, high-impact team where engineering decisions matter</li> </ul> </div>