Entry-Level Opto-Mechanical Design Engineer
The Entry-Level Opto-Mechanical Design Engineer at Confidential Client is responsible for designing and developing complex optical and mechanical systems for aerospace and defense applications. This role involves creating detailed 3D models, coordinating engineering activities, supporting advanced technology development, and ensuring manufacturability and performance of opto-mechanical assemblies. The position requires collaboration across teams to troubleshoot designs, develop testing procedures, and contribute to project proposals within a regulated export-controlled environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Overview
Confidential Client (via Careertakes) is seeking an Entry-Level Opto-Mechanical Design Engineer to support the design, development, and production of precision optical systems for aerospace and defense applications. You will create opto-mechanical layouts, develop 3D models for analysis and manufacturing, support prototyping and testing, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure manufacturability and performance.
What You’ll Do
- Design opto-mechanical components and assemblies (telescopes, sensors, mounts) for airborne and space systems
- Create 3D solid models and detailed engineering drawings using CAD (SolidWorks preferred)
- Develop packaging and opto-mechanical concepts that meet customer specifications and technical requirements
- Prepare and maintain drawings, Bills of Materials, procedures, and configuration-controlled documents
- Support prototype builds, testing, metrology, and troubleshooting efforts
- Coordinate design activities with engineering, manufacturing, and supply-chain teams
- Assist with proposal inputs and provide estimates for project quotations and financial tracking
- Provide tooling design and testing/assembly procedure development for new projects
- Evaluate manufacturability and suggest process improvements to meet cost and schedule goals
- Contribute to advanced technology development and R&D activities
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field with exposure to optical/mechanical design
- Proficiency in 3D CAD (experience with SOLIDWORKS preferred)
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with opto-mechanical system design from concept through production
- Experience with FEA tools (Simcenter, FEMAP) and tolerance stack analysis
- Knowledge of optical alignment tools and metrology (interferometers, spectrophotometers, theodolites)
- Working knowledge of GD&T (Y14.5) and engineering documentation practices
- Understanding of optical materials, coatings, adhesives, and mechanical interfaces used in optical systems
- Basic awareness of thermal, vibration, and shock effects on optics
- Experience with MS Office and ERP systems; vendor/supplier management experience preferred
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills; able to work independently and in teams
Compensation & Location
- Location: Tustin, CA (on-site, per the authoritative job location)
- Employment type: Full-time
- For California, the salary pay range for this role is $73,500 - $99,050 per year. This range is provided as a guideline; final offers consider experience, skills, education, and market factors.
Additional Requirements
- This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Candidates must be classified as a "U.S. Person" under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.
- Confidential Client is committed to compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws.
Why Join
- Work on mission-critical optical systems in aerospace and defense
- Gain hands-on experience from concept through prototype and production
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineers and suppliers to solve challenging problems
- Competitive salary range with opportunities for growth and technical development
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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