Opto-Mechanical Engineer

ABOUT PHOTON KINETICSPhoton Kinetics is the world's trusted standard in optical fiber testing and measurement solutions. For more than 40 years, our instruments have helped fiber and cable manufacturers deliver the performance that enables high-speed communication networks around the globe. 95% of the world's optical fiber has been tested using our equipment.As the world moves deeper into AI-driven computing and hyperscale data centers, the demand for precise measurement and reliable optical infrastructure continues to grow. Photon Kinetics is applying its expertise in measurement science, automation, and precision systems to help build the connectivity backbone that powers the next generation of data and AI technologies.ROLE OVERVIEWThe Opto-Mechanical Engineer will play a key role in designing, automating, and developing next-generation optical measurement systems and automated manufacturing subsystems supporting AI infrastructure and data center connectivity.This hands-on engineering position requires collaboration across optical, electrical, mechanical, and software disciplines to design precision structures, mounts, and motion systems that maintain optical alignment under real-world conditions, and to create automated test platforms that set new standards in accuracy, reliability, and manufacturability. The role reports to the Director of Engineering (Patrick Tourreau) and works closely with the Product Director (Chris Luetjen) to align technical direction with evolving market opportunities.WHAT YOU WILL ACHIEVE IN YEAR ONESystem Innovation: Deliver at least one new subsystem — mechanical, automated, or both — that advances PK's optical measurement capabilities or manufacturing automation.Design Excellence: Improve design-for-manufacture and design-for-automation practices to reduce assembly time and increase system precision.Collaboration Impact: Build strong cross-functional relationships between engineering, manufacturing, and product management to accelerate development cycles.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESSystem Design & DevelopmentDesign and develop new precision measurement and automation systemsApply mechanical engineering principles to design high-accuracy assemblies, motion systems, and instrument enclosuresIntegrate motion control, sensors, and instrument I/O into cohesive automated measurement and calibration workflowsProject Management & ExecutionManage projects from concept through release, coordinating across mechanical, optical, electrical, and software disciplinesBuild and test prototypes; analyze results to guide development decisionsManufacturing & Production SupportSupport design transfer to manufacturing, including definition of assemblies, automated calibration, and verification proceduresCollaborate with suppliers and internal manufacturing to optimize cost, performance, and reliabilityEngineering ExcellenceParticipate in design reviews and continuous improvement of PK's engineering practicesREQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience)Minimum of three years of experience developing mechanical or electromechanical products, ideally in instrumentation, automation, or measurement equipmentProficiency in 3D CAD (CREO preferred) and strong understanding of design-for-manufacture principlesExperience with prototyping, testing, and design validationStrong analytical, documentation, and communication skillsProven ability to take full ownership of complex projectsPREFERRED QUALIFICATIONSFamiliarity with motion control, instrument integration, or automated test conceptsExposure to scripting or instrument control environments (e.g., Python, LabVIEW)Experience with optical or metrology systemsWHY JOIN PHOTON KINETICSYou'll work on technologies that enable the next wave of AI and data center innovation. At Photon Kinetics, you'll join a highly skilled, collaborative team where your designs move from concept to production quickly and your contributions directly impact the products and relationships that connect the world. You'll have visibility and influence in a company recognized globally for engineering excellence, precision, and trusted performance. We value different perspectives and problem-solving approaches — the best solutions come from teams that think differently.