Senior Opto-Mech Lab Engineer, Leo

Description Amazon Leo is an initiative to launch a constellation of Low Earth Orbit satellites that will deliver low-latency, high-speed broadband connectivity to unserved and underserved communities around the world. Within the Optical Inter-Satellite Link (OISL) organization, you will directly contribute to the development and production of high-bandwidth free-space optical communication systems that connect satellites in orbit.

• Own and execute the assembly, integration, and test of complex opto-mechanical, fiber optic devices, test stations, and supporting GSE, ensuring hardware meets performance and workmanship standards.
• Lead and execute qualification test programs for aerospace hardware, managing test plans, schedules, and success criteria through program completion.
• Aid in development, document, and continuously improve assembly and test procedures for new opto-mechanical configurations and fiber optic assemblies.
• Lead prototyping efforts and drive failure investigations, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Manage task distribution, resource planning, and delegation across lab work streams to ensure efficient execution and on-time delivery.
• Perform precision fiber optic splicing and termination operations; validate splice quality through quantitative measurement.
• Measure and characterize performance parameters of optical assemblies and laser systems, interpreting results to inform design and process decisions.
• Apply proper optical and fiber handling techniques, maintaining rigorous cleanliness standards and ensuring component integrity throughout the build process.
• Partner with multiple engineering and program teams to resolve integration challenges and provide design-for-manufacturability feedback.
• Mentor junior lab engineers and technicians on optical assembly best practices, fiber handling, measurement techniques, and lab workflow management.
• Champion laser safety culture and ensure compliance with all lab safety protocols and standards.
• Identify opportunities to improve lab efficiency, reduce cycle times, and increase first-pass yield across integration workflows.

Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident, or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

• Bachelor's degree or above in engineering, physics, or equivalent.
• 7+ years of hands‑on experience in the assembly, integration, and test of aerospace hardware in a development or production environment.
• Demonstrated experience executing or managing qualification test programs for aerospace or defense hardware.
• Experience with task management, resource planning, and coordination of lab activities across multiple concurrent work streams.

• Experience with fiber optic splicing, termination, polishing, and characterization.
• Experience with opto‑mechanical assembly, laser beam characterization, interferometry, and precision optical measurement techniques.
• Experience working in cleanroom or controlled laboratory environments with strict contamination control protocols.
• Familiarity with satellite, aerospace, or defense optical systems and associated quality standards.
• Experience with FRACAS or structured failure investigation and root cause analysis processes.
• Experience developing automated test sequences or system characterization routines.
• Strong foundation in mathematical, statistical, and physics fundamentals as applied to optical system performance.
• Track record of mentoring technical staff and driving process improvements in a lab environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present technical findings to cross‑functional stakeholders.

Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.