Senior Mechanical Engineer, MPDE

At TE, you will unleash your potential working with people from diverse backgrounds and industries to create a safer, sustainable and more connected world.

Digital Data Networks (DDN) Business Unit | TE Connectivity

The Opportunity:

Join 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.

Please note:

operations are currently based at a temporary site in Webster, NY. The team will transition to a permanent Rochester location (near RIT) upon completion.

As 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.

• Electro-­mechanical design:
  Design high-­precision alignment fixtures, tooling, and automation systems to support optical component placement, optical fiber alignment, and laser welding operations.
• Automation systems design:
  Design/test/validate custom motion control systems, robotics, vision systems, and pneumatic assemblies.

• Prototyping:
  Lead rapid prototyping efforts from concept through production-­ready mechanical designs using advanced manufacturing techniques.
• Testing & Characterization:
  Develop comprehensive mechanical test methodologies for connector performance, durability, and manufacturing quality control.
• Cross-functional Collaboration:
  
  Work closely with optical engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure design for manufacturability (DFM) and optical performance.
• Documentation:
  Develop 2D/3D CAD files, work instructions, SOPs, best-practices, workflow diagrams, and all other support documentation for designs, test protocols in support of commissioning new systems and hardware.

Education:

BS or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.

• Experience:
  
  5‑8 years in precision mechanical design, preferably with optics or photonic experience (but not required).
• Materials Expertise:
  Hands-­on experience with metals and engineering plastics in precision applications.
• Design Tools:
  Proficiency with 3D CAD software (Solid Works, NX, Creo). Finite element analysis knowledge nice‑to‑have, but not required.

• Precision Engineering:
  Deep understanding and appreciation in designing hardware and subsystems for sub‑micron tolerancing, and precision manufacturing processes.
• Materials Science:
  Understanding of material properties, thermal expansion, creep, and long‑term stability of metals and polymers.
• Testing & Validation:
  Proficiency with mechanical test equipment, load testing, and statistical quality control methods.

• Problem Solving:
  Creative approach to complex mechanical design challenges with systematic engineering methodology.
• Communication:
  Ability to present technical concepts to cross‑functional teams and document detailed mechanical specifications.
• Project Management:
  Experience managing multiple development projects with competing priorities and tight delivery timelines.
• Continuous Learning:
  Commitment to staying current with emerging precision…