Mechanical Design Engineer

Aperture Optical Sciences Inc.; Meriden (CT); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Aperture Optical Sciences Inc. seeks a Mechanical Design Engineer to advance precision opto-mechanical assemblies for space-based imaging platforms.

You will design rugged, lightweight structures to survive launch loads and operate reliably in orbit, while aligning with optical performance requirements. The role requires in-depth knowledge of structural mechanics, thermal analysis, GD&T and tolerance stack-ups, plus experience with 3D CAD and FEA tools.

Qualifications

• Degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering with emphasis on opto-mechanical systems.
• 5+ years in opto-mechanical design, space or aerospace preferred.
• Strong background in structural, thermal analysis and precision design.

Responsibilities

• Design opto-mechanical assemblies for space telescopes and imaging platforms.
• Perform tolerance analyses and stack-up studies for optical performance.
• Conduct structural, thermal, and vibration analyses using FEA tools.
• Develop alignment strategies and support integration with optical engineers.
• Prepare engineering drawings and documentation per aerospace standards.
• Support environmental testing and design reviews (PDR/CDR).

Skills

Opto-mechanical design

3D CAD

FEM/ANSYS

GD&T

Launch vibration testing

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Creo

NX

ANSYS

NASTRAN

Job 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 Responsibilities

• Design precision opto-mechanical assemblies for space-based telescopes, including mirrors, mounts, structures, and alignment mechanisms
• Develop lightweight, thermally stable structures optimized for launch loads and on-orbit performance
• Perform tolerance analyses to ensure optical performance under thermal, mechanical, and dynamic environments
• Conduct structural, thermal, and vibration analyses using FEA tools
• Support optical alignment strategy development and error budgeting in collaboration with optical engineers
• Select materials compatible with space environments (CTE matching, outgassing, radiation, cryogenic performance, etc.)
• Generate detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and documentation in accordance with aerospace standards
• Support prototype builds, environmental testing (vibration, shock, thermal vacuum), and performance validation
• Participate in design reviews (PDR, CDR) and interface directly with customers and program teams
• Collaborate cross-functionally with optical, manufacturing, quality, and systems engineering teams

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in opto-mechanical design (space or aerospace preferred)
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, thermal analysis, and precision mechanical design
• Experience 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 sensitivity
• Experience with GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysis
• Knowledge of aerospace materials and space qualification standards

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience designing hardware for satellite telescopes or space imaging systems
• Experience with lightweight mirror mounts, flexures, kinematic designs, and athermalization strategies
• Familiarity with silicon carbide or other advanced space-qualified optical materials
• Experience supporting thermal vacuum and vibration testing
• Understanding of stray light control and baffle design
• Active or ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Attention to precision and detail in high-performance systems
• Ability to work in multidisciplinary engineering teams
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Self-directed and capable of managing multiple program priorities

Why Join Us

• You 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.