Job title - Principal Mechanical System Engineer Location- Foothill Ranch Duration - Fulltime
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly experienced mechanical engineer with optomechanical experience design and develop robust mechanical systems. The role is responsible for the mechanical architecture of the product, and its detailed design, development, and optimization.
As the engineer in this role, you will need to have intimate knowledge of various aspects of mechanical engineering. You will be at the forefront acting as the primary authority over the design of the opt mechanics, mechanisms, actuators, structure, and skins of the product.
We have very little existing mechanical designs - this is a role for someone who wants to make a real difference developing the world’s best ophthalmic platform.
You need to be a self-starter, comfortable with a fast-paced workplace, able to manage external contractors, able to achieve goals within a high-level of ambiguity, work across functional lines, and take a hands-on approach to explore and find optimal solutions.
Job Responsibilities
Architect the mechanical assembly supporting free-space optical system comprised of static and moving optical element, as well as actuators
Own the design of other subsystems including device structure, skins, cable routing, thermal management, and tooling design. Make the design yourself and manage external contractors
Desing the mechanical subsystem and parts using SolidWorks
Design for reasonable without reliance of expensive material or fabrication techniques unless absolutely needed
Prototype the subsystems and systems using the appropriate fabrication techniques
Plan and execute characterization studies as needed per subsystem. This includes image quality, alignment sensitivity, and environmental sensitivity
Troubleshoot and root-cause performance issues, including stray light, focus drift, CTE mismatch, and assembly variation
Partner with the various R&D disciplines to ensure proper integration and performance
Support documentation required for regulated medical devices (DHFs, design verification protocols, risk analyses, engineering change orders)
Define assembly processes and tolerances for volume production
Develop DFM/DFA strategies with suppliers and manufacturing partners
Substantially contribute to transfer to manufacturing, including vendor selection, tooling decisions, and assembly processes
Present design reviews and contribute technical expertise to program planning
Qualifications and Requirements
B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
7+ years of experience designing mechanical and optomechanical systems
Strong SolidWorks experience with GD&T, tolerance analysis, and precision design
Proven experience with mounting for optics components and subassemblies where mechanical positioning tolerances and adjustments/locking mechanisms are specified
Proven experience with precision actuators
Proven experience with instrument structure design with optical stability and repeatability
Experience with optical alignment, metrology tools, and optical bench setup
Hands-on experience in prototype development and troubleshooting
Strong understanding of DFM for small-form-factor and precision assemblies
Desired: experience with imaging systems, lasers, fiber optics
Desired: experience in regulated industries (medical device, biotech, or similar)
Desired: knowledge of medical device development lifecycle (ISO 13485, IEC-60601, FMEA, and risk management)
Able to balance theoretical rigor with practical engineering judgment
Comfortable with ambiguity in a collaborative early-stage R&D, as well as regulatory compliance
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, especially for complex, multidisciplinary systems
Strong communication and documentation skills
Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to details, and ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment
Willing to go out of your comfort zone and take multi tasks beyond your routine work within your function