At TE, you will unleash your potential working with people from diverse backgrounds and industries to create a safer, sustainable and more connected world.Job OverviewJoin TE Connectivity's innovative Passive Optics organization as a Senior Mechanical Engineer and help design the next generation of precision optical connector systems powering AI and hyperscale computing infrastructure. You'll solve complex mechanical engineering challenges in sub-micron precision design, working with advanced materials to create products that enable the world's most demanding optical interconnect applications.Why This Role MattersAs AI workloads demand unprecedented reliability and performance, precision mechanical design of optical connectors has become mission-critical. You'll be at the forefront of solving complex mechanical challenges involving metals, plastics, and innovative latching mechanisms that directly enable the optical revolution while advancing TE's leadership in high-performance connectivity solutions.Please note: operations are currently based at a temporary site in Webster, NY. The team will transition to a permanent Rochester location (near RIC) upon completion.Job RequirementsWhat You'll EngineerPrecision Mechanical Design & DevelopmentConnector System Architecture: Design innovative passive optical connector assemblies with sub-micron alignment precision for fiber-to-PIC (Photonic Integrated Circuit) applicationsTolerance Engineering: Develop sub-micron tolerance control strategies ensuring optimal mechanical and optical performance across temperature ranges and environmental conditionsPerformance Optimization: Engineer solutions for critical mechanical parameters including connector durability, insertion/withdrawal forces, and long-term stabilityMaterials & Structural EngineeringMaterials Selection: Evaluate and specify advanced metals and engineering plastics for precision optical connector applications with focus on dimensional stability and wear resistanceCompliant Structures: Design innovative compliant mechanisms for connector alignment, engagement, and stress relief while maintaining optical precisionMechanical Validation: Design and execute comprehensive test protocols for static and dynamic loading, fatigue resistance, and environmental stress validationAdvanced Mechanical ConceptsLatching Mechanisms: Develop innovative latching and retention systems optimized for connector reliability, user experience, and manufacturing efficiencyStrain Relief Design: Engineer strain relief solutions that protect fiber optics under mechanical stress while maintaining connector alignment precisionLoad Analysis: Perform static and dynamic stress analysis on connector assemblies, including finite element modeling of complex loading scenariosPrecision Assembly: Design connector systems for automated assembly processes while maintaining sub-micron alignment tolerancesProduct Development & ManufacturingPrototyping: Lead rapid prototyping efforts from concept through production-ready mechanical designs using advanced manufacturing techniquesTesting & Characterization: Develop comprehensive mechanical test methodologies for connector performance, durability, and manufacturing quality controlCross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with optical engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure design for manufacturability (DFM) and optical performanceWhat your background should look likeEssential QualificationsEducation: BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related technical fieldExperience: a minimum of 5 years in precision mechanical design, preferably in connector or optical systems; or 3 years and a Master's degree; or a PhD without work experienceMaterials Expertise: Hands-on experience with metals and engineering plastics in precision applicationsDesign Tools: Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, NX, Creo) and finite element analysis toolsCore Technical CompetenciesPrecision Engineering: Deep understanding of sub-micron tolerancing, statistical tolerance analysis, and precision manufacturing processesStructural Mechanics: Experience with compliant structures, spring mechanisms, and dynamic loading analysis of small-scale mechanical systemsMaterials Science: Understanding of material properties, thermal expansion, creep, and long-term stability of metals and polymersTesting & Validation: Proficiency with mechanical test equipment, load testing, and statistical quality control methodsSpecialized Knowledge AreasConnector Design: Experience with latching mechanisms, strain relief systems, and connector assembly processesStatic/Dynamic Analysis: Expertise in stress analysis, fatigue life prediction, and mechanical reliability engineeringManufacturing Processes: Knowledge of injection molding, precision machining, and assembly automation for small-scale componentsQuality Systems: Understanding of tolerance control, process capability studies, and Design for Six Sigma methodologiesProfessional SkillsProblem Solving: Creative approach to complex mechanical design challenges with systematic engineering methodologyCommunication: Ability to present technical concepts to cross-functional teams and document detailed mechanical specificationsProject Management: Experience managing multiple development projects with competing priorities and tight delivery timelinesContinuous Learning: Commitment to staying current with emerging precision manufacturing technologies and connector innovationsPreferred QualificationsAdvanced Degree: MS in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related fieldIndustry Experience: Background in optical connectors, precision instruments, or telecommunications hardwareStandards Knowledge: Familiarity with connector industry standards (IEC, Telcordia) and environmental testing protocolsSimulation Skills: Experience with ANSYS, COMSOL, or other advanced FEA/simulation softwarePatent Experience: Track record of mechanical design innovation and intellectual property developmentCompetenciesSET : Strategy, Execution, Talent (for managers)ABOUT TE CONNECTIVITYTE Connectivity plc (NYSE: TEL) is a global industrial technology leader creating a safer, sustainable, productive, and connected future. As a trusted innovation partner, our broad range of connectivity and sensor solutions enable the distribution of power, signal and data to advance next-generation transportation, energy networks, automated factories, data centers enabling artificial intelligence, and more.COMPENSATIONCompetitive base salary commensurate with experience: $115,400- $173,100 (subject to change dependent on physical location)Posted salary ranges are made in good faith. TE Connectivity reserves the right to adjust ranges depending on the experience/qualification of the selected candidate as well as internal and external equity.Total Compensation = Base Salary + Incentive(s) + BenefitsBENEFITSA comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, 401(k), disability, life insurance, employee stock purchase plan, paid time off and voluntary benefits.EOE, Including Disability/VetsJob Country: United StatesTravel Required: 10% to 25%Requisition ID: 148431Workplace Type: OnsiteExternal Careers Page: Engineering & Technology#J-18808-Ljbffr
TE Connectivity is an industry leader with an entrepreneurial spirit, fueled by innovation and collaboration. Our emphasis on forward thinking has attracted the brightest industry minds, allowing them to thrive and create breakthrough solutions that deliver a competitive advantage to our customers.
TE Connectivity is a global, $12.1 billion company that designs and manufactures over 500,000 products that connect and protect the flow of power and data inside the products that touch every aspect of our lives. Our nearly 90,000 employees partner with customers in virtually every industry—from consumer electronics, energy and healthcare, to automotive, aerospace and communication networks—enabling smarter, faster, better technologies to connect products to possibilities.