Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Louisville, CO
Full Time
Experienced
We're seeking an experienced Senior Opto-mechanical Engineer to advance the development of our earth-imaging payload systems. In this role, you'll bridge the gap between optical performance requirements and mechanical design, ensuring our imaging systems deliver exceptional results while withstanding the rigors of launch and space operations. Hands-on experience is a must as you shepherd the optical payload from design through assembly, testing, and spacecraft integration

Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with optical engineers to develop space-based optical payload by reviewing layouts for mechanical feasibility, material CTE constraints, assembly complexity, and suggesting targeted improvements for manufacturability 
  • Perform detailed tolerance analysis to ensure optical integrity across operational conditions, launch vibration, thermal cycling, and long-term material stability 
  • Implement solutions for maintaining optical alignment during payload assembly, launch vibration, and on-orbit thermal variations using kinematic mounts, flexures, and low-CTE materials 
  • Conduct comprehensive structural/thermal/optical analysis using FEA/FEM tools to predict system performance in space environments, including assembly, launch loads, zero-G, and extreme temperature cycles 
  • Identify components sensitive to temperature gradients and heat loads using thermal modeling, empirical data, and heritage knowledge from prior missions 
  • Create detailed CAD models and engineering drawings for structural and optical components with proper GD&T callouts, surface finish requirements, and material specifications 
  • Rapidly progress designs with evolving or incomplete specifications and ensure they comply with spacecraft integration requirements, industry standards, and materials outgassing criteria 
  • Design reliable mechanical systems for operational adjustments, including focus mechanisms, alignment stages, and one-time deployment mechanisms with redundant features 
  • Coordinate with suppliers on component specifications, manufacturing capabilities, specialized material requirements, and delivery timelines for long-lead items 
  • Conduct design reviews with vendors and implement quality assurance processes for critical optical components 
  • Responsible for the lifecycle of the telescope, including leading hands-on assembly and alignment efforts 
  • Support integration and testing activities for payload systems, including vibration testing, thermal vacuum cycling, and optical performance verification 

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s or Master's degree in aerospace, mechanical, optomechanical, or similar engineering.  
  • 10+ years of experience with optomechanical hardware 
  • 5+ years of experience with space flight hardware 
  • Demonstrated experience in designing, building, and delivering optical systems for space applications 
  • Deep understanding of optomechanical design methods and practices 
  • Proficiency with 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks), detailed mechanical drawings. Detailed optical drawings. 
  • Proficiency with finite element structural, dynamics, and thermal analysis (Ansys, SolidWorks Simulation). 
  • Experience with precision mechanical assembly and alignment operations 
  • Demonstrated ability to create design from conceptualization through production. 

Compensation

  • The anticipated compensation for this position is $140,000-$180,000/yr, depending on previous experience.
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