Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Optical Engineering or related field
2+ years of designing optomechanical systems in rugged environments
Proficient in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo)
Experience in producing detailed engineering drawings
Knowledge of optical principles including alignment and MTF
Familiarity with environmental sealing and thermal management
Experience with camera sensor technologies and their mechanical considerations
Responsibilities
Design and develop optomechanical assemblies for cameras and imaging sensors
Collaborate with engineering teams to define mechanical and optical requirements
Conduct tolerance analysis for structural integrity in marine environments
Select and integrate COTS and custom components for SWaP constraints
Develop and lead test plans for environmental validations
Support rapid prototyping and iterative development processes
Maintain detailed documentation for designs and revisions
Benefits
Comprehensive medical insurance with 100% premium coverage for employees
100% premium coverage for basic dental and vision insurance for employees
Generous PTO and holidays policy
Paid parental leave for new parents
401(k) retirement plan
Equity options available
Basic life and disability insurance coverage
Pet insurance options with 24/7 Telehealth access
Free lunches and unlimited snacks in the office
Full Job Description
Job Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Opto-Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, integration, and qualification of imaging systems aboard our Autonomous Service Vessels. This role bridges optics, mechanics, and environmental constraints by developing ruggedized camera enclosures, mounting systems, and sensor integration strategies that perform in harsh maritime conditions. You will collaborate with hardware, perception, and autonomy engineer teams to ensure our vision systems are robust, reliable, and high-performing at sea.
Responsibilities
Designs and develop optomechanical assemblies for cameras and imaging sensors, including lens mounts, enclosures, gimbals, and thermal control elements
Collaborates with hardware, perception, and autonomy engineers to define mechanical and optical requirements for camera systems, including field of view, lensing, placement, and alignment
Performs detailed tolerance analysis to ensure structural integrity of components in vibration and shock-prone marine environments
Selects and integrates commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) and custom components to meet SWaP (size, weight, and power) constraints
Develops test plans and leads environmental and performance validation (e.g., IP rating, vibration testing, temperature cycling)
Supports rapid prototyping and iterative development, including 3D printing, machining, and on-water testing
Maintains detailed documentation of designs, analysis, and revisions in support of product lifecycle and compliance needs
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or greater in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field
2+ years of experience designing optomechanical systems or camera integration in rugged environments
Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo) and mechanical analysis tools (FEA, thermal modeling)
Proficiency in producing detailed engineering drawings for prototyping and manufacturing
Proficiency with optical principles, including alignment, lens selection, MTF, and FOV constraints
Experience with environmental sealing (IP67+), thermal management, and vibration isolation
Familiarity with camera sensor technologies (visible, IR, multispectral) and their mechanical considerations
Experience working on autonomous systems or robotics platforms (ground, air, or maritime) is preferred
Background in defense, aerospace, or other regulated hardware environments is preferred
Experience with optical coatings, anti-reflective treatments, or lens fogging mitigation is preferred
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with maritime autonomy challenges such as dynamic environments, variable lighting, and low-contrast targets.
Proven success developing, integrating, and validating optical & sensor systems on maritime or aerospace platforms
Experience with design and testing for shock and vibration environments
Prior experience working on DoD programs or unmanned maritime systems.
A professional engineering license or similar professional certification
ASME Y14.5 certification
Physical Demands
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
Occasional standing and walking within the office
Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment
Visual acuity to read screens, documents, and reports
Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies
Lifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages)
Benefits
Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
Saronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependents
Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan
Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company's success
Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
Pet Insurance: Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helpline
Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office
