Optical Mechanical Research Engineer

Optical-Mechanical Research Engineer Applied R&D (On-Site)

Northwest Talent Solutions is partnering with a confidential global technology organization to hire an Optical-Mechanical Research Engineer for an applied research team focused on next-generation test, measurement, and photonics technologies.

This role is ideal for engineers who enjoy working at the intersection of precision mechanical engineering, optics/photonics, and hands‑on laboratory experimentation
, and who want to see research ideas move from concept to prototype and into commercial products.

• Design and develop innovative opto‑mechanical and photonics packaging solutions for advanced hardware systems

• Identify emerging optical and photonic mounting or packaging technologies and evaluate their applicability

• Perform mechanical design, analysis, simulation, and tolerance studies using modern CAD and FEA tools

• Build and test prototype hardware to validate feasibility and performance

• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams spanning optics, photonics, electronics, and software

• Support the transfer of successful research concepts into manufacturable, commercial products

• Document designs clearly for fabrication, inspection, and assembly, including GD&T

• Bachelor's degree with 10+ years of experience, master's degree with 5+ years, or PhD with 3+ years in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field

• Demonstrated experience designing mechanical systems for optical or photonic applications

• Strong understanding of precision machining processes
  , materials, and tolerances

• Hands‑on laboratory experience with prototyping, measurement, and inspection equipment

• Advanced proficiency with 3D CAD tools
  , FEA, and physical prototyping workflows

• Experience documenting designs for fabrication, including GD&T

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced, research‑oriented, on‑site environment

• Experience with
  opto‑mechanical or photonics packaging

• Familiarity with photonic integrated circuits (PICs)

• Experience designing tooling or fixtures for alignment, assembly, or bonding of optical components

• Exposure to optical design or ray‑tracing tools (e.g., Zemax, Code V, or similar)

• Knowledge of MEMS, NOEMS, or lab automation and data acquisition

• Fully on‑site role requiring close collaboration with research and engineering teams

• Access to well‑equipped laboratories, precision machining resources, and advanced simulation tools

• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates

This opportunity is well‑suited for engineers who are curious, hands‑on, and motivated to create innovative technologies that have real‑world impact.