Optomechanical Engineer

Overview Energy; Ashburn (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Health stipend

4 weeks paid time off

2 weeks sick leave

Parental leave

401(k) matching

Job summary

Overview Energy in Northern Virginia is seeking a highly skilled Optomechanical Engineer to lead the design, analysis, manufacturing, and integration of precision, space‑based optical assemblies used in spacecraft and space‑based solar power applications.

The role requires developing innovative technical solutions to maintain optical performance through knowledge of thermal and structural impacts on optical systems, with hands‑on prototyping and production support.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Optical Sciences or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of related experience in opto‑mechanical engineering.
• Expertise in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, NX) and opto‑mechanical tolerance analysis.
• Strong background in structural and thermal analysis techniques, including FEA.
• Knowledge of materials science, adhesives, coatings, and environmental sealing for optics.
• U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with optical and spacecraft engineering teams.
• Lead the design, analysis, and integration of precision opto‑mechanical assemblies for optical systems for space applications.
• Develop innovative mechanical solutions that meet optical, thermal, and structural requirements.
• Design and build prototypes.
• Create detailed drawings and instructions for production.
• Perform structural and thermal analyses.
• Be hands‑on with hardware for prototyping, production, and testing.

Skills

Opto-mechanical design

Thermal analysis

FEA

Materials science

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or Optical Sciences

Master's or PhD preferred

Tools

SolidWorks

Creo

NX

FEA tools

Wavefront sensors

Interferometers

Beam profilers

Job description

Overview Energy is a mission‑driven team committed to delivering Space Solar Energy to the world. We operate at the intersection of space infrastructure and energy abundance, providing continuous baseload power 24/7 – without seasonality or the need for batteries. Headquartered in the Northern Virginia / Washington, DC area and backed by world‑class investors, we are advancing the next generation of clean energy technology.

The Role

We are seeking a highly skilled Optomechanical Engineer to lead the design, analysis, manufacturing, and integration of optomechanical assemblies for precision, space‑based optical systems used in spacecraft and space‑based solar power applications. This role requires developing innovative technical solutions to maintain optical performance through knowledge of thermal and structural impacts on optical systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with optical and spacecraft engineering teams
• Lead the design, analysis, and integration of precision opto‑mechanical assemblies for optical systems for space applications
• Develop innovative mechanical solutions that meet optical, thermal, and structural requirements
• Design and build prototypes
• Create detailed drawings and instructions for production
• Perform structural and thermal analyses
• Be hands‑on with hardware for prototyping, production, and testing

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Sciences, or related field; Master's or PhD preferred
• Minimum 5 years of related experience in opto‑mechanical engineering
• Expertise in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, NX) and opto‑mechanical tolerance analysis
• Strong background in structural and thermal analysis techniques, including FEA
• Knowledge of materials science, adhesives, coatings, and environmental sealing for optics
• U.S. citizenship required

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Sciences, or related field
• Experience with design for manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Test (DFT)
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or other high‑reliability industries
• Familiarity with basic optical concepts
• Experience with environmental performance validation including shock, vibration, and temperature testing
• Experience with optical test instruments such as wavefront sensors, interferometers, beam profilers, and similar metrology equipment

Benefits

We take care of our people. In addition to competitive salary and equity, Overview Energy offers comprehensive medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance coverage, a health and wellness stipend, 4 weeks paid time off, 2 weeks sick leave, parental leave, and 401(k) matching. Benefits are subject to change at the Company's discretion.

ITAR Requirements

This position is subject to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Candidates must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Overview Energy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally protected status. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact us at [e-mail].

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented groups often only apply for roles where they meet every listed qualification. If you believe you can succeed in this role, we encourage you to apply - even if you don't check every box.