Mechanical Engineer, RIT

Rigaku Americas Corp.; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Rigaku Americas Corp. in Auburn Hills, MI, seeks a Mechanical/Opto-Mechanical Engineer to design precision X-ray optical systems and mounts. You will create 3D CAD models, perform tolerance analyses, and work with scientists to translate requirements into robust hardware.

The role includes assembly, alignment, testing, and collaboration with manufacturing to ensure cost-effectiveness. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with X-ray optics, vacuum systems, and precision motion equipment,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics or related field.
• Experience with precision motion systems, nanopositioning devices, and interferometric alignment is required.
• Familiarity with vacuum systems and clean assembly practices preferred.

Responsibilities

• 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 requirements into mechanical designs.
• Perform tolerance, thermal, and structural analyses to ensure optical performance and stability.
• Design ultra-stable mounts, stages, vacuum-compatible structures, housings and alignment mechanisms.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models and engineering drawings with GD&T.
• Support 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 operation and development.
• Support prototype build, optical alignment, integration, and verification testing.
• Work with manufacturing to ensure designs are manufacturable, testable, and cost-effective.
• Document designs, analyses, test results, engineering changes, and design iterations.

Skills

Precision motion systems

Interferometric alignment

Analytical problem-solving

Attention to detail

Independent work in research

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Opto-Mechanical Engineering

Applied Physics

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

Rigaku offers a rewarding work environment and excellent benefits. All applicants are kept in strict confidence. Benefits package includes Health, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, Life insurance, section 125 flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan and more. Rigaku is an EEO/AA employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Applicants must be able to prove they can legally work in the US.