Mechanical Engineer

Rigaku Americas Corp.; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Rigaku Americas Corp. in Auburn Hills is looking for a Mechanical Engineer to design precision opto-mechanical systems for X-ray optics. You will collaborate with scientists to ensure mechanical stability and optical performance through detailed tolerance and structural analyses. A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related fields is required, along with experience in precision motion systems. This role offers opportunities for hands-on work in a research setting.

Qualifications

• Experience with precision motion systems, nanopositioning devices, and interferometric alignment.
• Familiarity with vacuum systems and clean assembly practices.
• Research experience in X-ray optics or synchrotron instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop precision opto-mechanical systems for X-ray optics.
• Collaborate with scientists to translate requirements into designs.
• Perform tolerance, thermal, and structural analyses.

Skills

3D CAD software proficiency (e.g., SolidWorks)

Analytical and experimental problem-solving skills

Understanding of opto-mechanical principles

Attention to detail and precision

Technical communication skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

Join Rigaku in shaping a better world through new perspectives!

Essential Functions

• Design and develop precision opto-mechanical systems for X-ray optics, including mirrors, monochromators, x-ray sources, and other elements.

• Collaborate with X-ray optical scientists and engineers to translate optical and experimental requirements into mechanical designs.

• Perform tolerance, thermal, and structural analyses to ensure optical performance and mechanical stability.

• Design ultra-stable mounts, stages, vacuum-compatible structures, housings and alignment mechanisms.

• Create detailed 3D CAD models and engineering drawings with appropriate GD&T.

• Support laboratory experiments including assembly, integration, alignment, and testing of X-ray optical systems.

• Participate in system characterization, and performance optimization.

• Troubleshoot mechanical and opto-mechanical issues during experimental operation.

• Support prototype build, optical alignment, integration, and verification test.

• Troubleshoot mechanical and opto-mechanical issues during development and production.

• Work with manufacturing partners to ensure designs are manufacturable, testable, and cost-effective.

• Document designs, analyses, test results, engineering changes, and design iterations.

Reasonable Accommodations Statement

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

Position Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor\'s or Master\'s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field

Experience

• Experience with precision motion systems, nanopositioning devices, and interferometric alignment.

• Familiarity with vacuum systems, vacuum compatible materials, and clean assembly practices.

• Background in supporting experiments at synchrotron or laboratory X-ray sources.

• Experience collaborating with scientists on exploratory or R&D projects.

• Research experience in X-ray optics, synchrotron instrumentation, or related fields.

• Hands-on capability and experience with X-ray optical components (mirrors, monochromators, multilayers, zone plates, etc.).

Competencies

• Proficiency with 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks).

• Understanding of opto-mechanical principles: alignment sensitivity, thermal effects, vibration, and stability.

• Strong analytical and experimental problem-solving skills.

• High attention to detail and precision.

• Ability to work independently in a research setting while collaborating across disciplines.

• Comfortable with iterative design and experimental uncertainty.

• Good technical communication skills (written and verbal).

• The following are not required but highly appreciated:

• • Hands-on capability and experience with X-ray optical components (mirrors, monochromators, multilayers, zone plates, etc.).

  • Familiarity with vacuum systems, vacuum compatible materials, and clean assembly practices.

  • Experience with precision motion systems, nano positioning stages, and interferometric alignment.