Engineering Manager

Position Overview

A growing engineering organization specializing in optical systems and advanced instrumentation is seeking a highly experienced Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead the development of precision opto‑mechanical products. This role combines people leadership with deep technical involvement in complex system design, offering the opportunity to guide products from early concept through manufacturing and deployment.

The organization's collaborative, mid‑sized environment is ideal for engineers who enjoy full end‑to‑end product ownership, hands‑on problem solving, and close interaction with optics, electronics, software, and manufacturing teams.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of mechanical and opto‑mechanical engineers, fostering technical excellence and collaboration.
• Provide technical direction on mechanical and opto‑mechanical system architecture, design standards, and best practices.
• Conduct design reviews and ensure high‑quality engineering deliverables.

Technical Contribution

• Oversee the design and development of precision opto‑mechanical assemblies, mechanisms, and structures.
• Ensure mechanical designs support optical alignment, stability, and performance requirements across environmental and operational conditions.
• Review and guide structural, modal, and thermal analyses to validate performance and manage risk.
• Participate directly in prototyping, assembly, alignment, and laboratory testing.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Partner closely with optical, electrical, software, systems, and manufacturing teams to deliver fully integrated solutions.
• Support customer programs by translating system requirements into robust, manufacturable mechanical designs.
• Promote design‑for‑manufacture and design‑for‑assembly principles throughout development.

Project & Process Support

• Support program planning, resource allocation, and technical risk management.
• Drive continuous improvement in engineering processes, documentation, and knowledge sharing.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (Master's or PhD preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in mechanical or opto‑mechanical product development, with 3-5+ years in a technical leadership or management role.
• Strong background in precision mechanical system design and opto‑mechanical architecture.
• Experience designing systems incorporating:
  • High‑precision motorized mechanisms
  • Lens and mirror mounts (large and small)
  • Automated or production‑oriented mechanical systems
• Proficiency with SolidWorks or equivalent 3D CAD tools.
• Experience with FEA (static, modal, thermal).
• Hands‑on approach to engineering, including build and test activities.
• Strong communication skills and ability to lead across disciplines.