This role is responsible for architecting complex precision mechanical systems that support advanced optical and imaging products. The Principal Engineer provides strategic technical direction, leads high-impact programs, mentors engineering staff, and ensures mechanical designs meet performance, reliability, manufacturability, and cost objectives.
This position combines deep hands-on engineering expertise with cross-functional leadership and long-term technical vision.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities:- Lead mechanical design efforts for optical systems and instruments.
- Serve as a system architect for optomechanical assemblies and opto-mechatronics.
- Drive product development from concept through manufacturing, including:
- System architecture and conceptualization
- Modeling and simulation
- Prototyping and laboratory testing
- Design and develop precision mechanical systems incorporating:
- High-precision motorized mechanisms
- Lens and mirror mounts (large and small)
- Flexures and kinematic mounts
- Metal castings, plastic moldings, and additive manufacturing
- Apply principles of Design for Manufacture and support production systems and automated material handling.
- Perform FEA analysis (static, modal, thermal) to validate designs.
- Utilize SolidWorks or similar CAD software for detailed design work.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful product realization.
- Participate hands-on in the build and test phases of your designs.
- Mentor senior and junior engineers; elevate overall engineering standards
- Serve as a technical representative in high-level customer or partner discussions
Qualifications & Skills: - Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; master's degree preferred.
- 15+ years of innovative work designing optomechanical assemblies and opto-mechatronics.
- Proven track record of precision mechanical system development, including design, analysis, and product realization.
- Expert-level knowledge in mechanical engineering principles.
- Experience with FEA (static, modal, thermal).
- Proficiency in SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
- Ability to innovate and apply new technologies or existing methods to solve complex design challenges.
- Strong communication skills to address technical issues with clarity and insight.
- Highly motivated and enjoys hands-on work.
- Project management experience is a plus, but technical contribution is the primary focus.
About Optikos: This is a 100% in-office position located in our headquarters in Wakefield, Massachusetts. We offer competitive compensation packages along with a challenging and stimulating environment.
Salary Description
$160k-$200k/Annually
