{"schemaVersion":"jobsearcher.job.v1","id":"eea81f4e23dbce6b83e16d7c","url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/eea81f4e23dbce6b83e16d7c","canonicalUrl":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/eea81f4e23dbce6b83e16d7c","title":"Mechanical Design Engineer","description":"We are seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Design Engineer to support the design, analysis, integration, and testing of precision optical systems for satellite-based imaging platforms. This role focuses on the development of rugged, lightweight, thermally stable opto-mechanical assemblies capable of surviving launch environments and operating reliably in space. The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical engineering fundamentals with a deep understanding of optical system performance and environmental constraints unique to aerospace applications.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign precision opto-mechanical assemblies for space-based telescopes, including mirrors, mounts, structures, and alignment mechanismsDevelop lightweight, thermally stable structures optimized for launch loads and on-orbit performancePerform tolerance analyses to ensure optical performance under thermal, mechanical, and dynamic environmentsConduct structural, thermal, and vibration analyses using FEA toolsSupport optical alignment strategy development and error budgeting in collaboration with optical engineersSelect materials compatible with space environments (CTE matching, outgassing, radiation, cryogenic performance, etc.)Generate detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and documentation in accordance with aerospace standardsSupport prototype builds, environmental testing (vibration, shock, thermal vacuum), and performance validationParticipate in design reviews (PDR, CDR) and interface directly with customers and program teamsCollaborate cross-functionally with optical, manufacturing, quality, and systems engineering teamsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field5+ years of experience in opto-mechanical design (space or aerospace preferred)Strong understanding of structural mechanics, thermal analysis, and precision mechanical designExperience designing for launch environments (random vibration, shock, static loads)Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, NX, or similar)Experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, NASTRAN, or equivalent)Familiarity with optical system fundamentals and alignment sensitivityExperience with GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysisKnowledge of aerospace materials and space qualification standardsPreferred QualificationsDirect experience designing hardware for satellite telescopes or space imaging systemsExperience with lightweight mirror mounts, flexures, kinematic designs, and athermalization strategiesFamiliarity with silicon carbide or other advanced space-qualified optical materialsExperience supporting thermal vacuum and vibration testingUnderstanding of stray light control and baffle designActive or ability to obtain a U.S. security clearanceKey CompetenciesStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsAttention to precision and detail in high-performance systemsAbility to work in multidisciplinary engineering teamsEffective written and verbal communication skillsSelf-directed and capable of managing multiple program prioritiesWhy Join UsYou will play a critical role in developing next-generation satellite imaging systems that demand extreme precision, stability, and reliability. This is an opportunity to work on mission-critical hardware deployed in challenging space environments where engineering excellence directly impacts performance.","company":"Aperture Optical Sciences","rawCompany":"aperture optical sciences","city":"Meriden","state":"CT","isRemote":false,"isActive":false,"createdAt":"2026-07-16T17:59:07.002Z","occupations":[{"code":"17-2141.00","title":"Mechanical Engineers","slug":"mechanical-engineers"},{"code":"17-2011.00","title":"Aerospace Engineers","slug":"aerospace-engineers"},{"code":"17-2199.00","title":"Engineers, All Other","slug":"engineers-all-other"}],"industries":[{"code":"927110","title":"Space Research and Technology","slug":"space-research-and-technology"},{"code":"336414","title":"Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing","slug":"guided-missile-and-space-vehicle-manufacturing"},{"code":"336419","title":"Other Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing","slug":"other-guided-missile-and-space-vehicle-parts-and-auxiliary-equipment-manufacturing"}],"jobPosting":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"JobPosting","title":"Mechanical Design Engineer","description":"We are seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Design Engineer to support the design, analysis, integration, and testing of precision optical systems for satellite-based imaging platforms. This role focuses on the development of rugged, lightweight, thermally stable opto-mechanical assemblies capable of surviving launch environments and operating reliably in space. The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical engineering fundamentals with a deep understanding of optical system performance and environmental constraints unique to aerospace applications.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign precision opto-mechanical assemblies for space-based telescopes, including mirrors, mounts, structures, and alignment mechanismsDevelop lightweight, thermally stable structures optimized for launch loads and on-orbit performancePerform tolerance analyses to ensure optical performance under thermal, mechanical, and dynamic environmentsConduct structural, thermal, and vibration analyses using FEA toolsSupport optical alignment strategy development and error budgeting in collaboration with optical engineersSelect materials compatible with space environments (CTE matching, outgassing, radiation, cryogenic performance, etc.)Generate detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and documentation in accordance with aerospace standardsSupport prototype builds, environmental testing (vibration, shock, thermal vacuum), and performance validationParticipate in design reviews (PDR, CDR) and interface directly with customers and program teamsCollaborate cross-functionally with optical, manufacturing, quality, and systems engineering teamsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field5+ years of experience in opto-mechanical design (space or aerospace preferred)Strong understanding of structural mechanics, thermal analysis, and precision mechanical designExperience designing for launch environments (random vibration, shock, static loads)Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, NX, or similar)Experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, NASTRAN, or equivalent)Familiarity with optical system fundamentals and alignment sensitivityExperience with GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysisKnowledge of aerospace materials and space qualification standardsPreferred QualificationsDirect experience designing hardware for satellite telescopes or space imaging systemsExperience with lightweight mirror mounts, flexures, kinematic designs, and athermalization strategiesFamiliarity with silicon carbide or other advanced space-qualified optical materialsExperience supporting thermal vacuum and vibration testingUnderstanding of stray light control and baffle designActive or ability to obtain a U.S. security clearanceKey CompetenciesStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsAttention to precision and detail in high-performance systemsAbility to work in multidisciplinary engineering teamsEffective written and verbal communication skillsSelf-directed and capable of managing multiple program prioritiesWhy Join UsYou will play a critical role in developing next-generation satellite imaging systems that demand extreme precision, stability, and reliability. This is an opportunity to work on mission-critical hardware deployed in challenging space environments where engineering excellence directly impacts performance.","datePosted":"2026-07-16T17:59:07.002Z","dateModified":"2026-07-16T17:59:07.002Z","hiringOrganization":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Aperture Optical Sciences","sameAs":"https://jobsearcher.com"},"jobLocation":{"@type":"Place","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressLocality":"Meriden","addressRegion":"CT","addressCountry":"US"}},"identifier":{"@type":"PropertyValue","name":"JobSearcher","value":"eea81f4e23dbce6b83e16d7c"},"url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/eea81f4e23dbce6b83e16d7c"}}