Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer — Space Instrumentation

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel, Northern (MD, KY); Hybrid; USD 105,000 - 290,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and integration of spaceflight hardware for civil space exploration and national security missions. You will collaborate with optical, mechanical, structural, and thermal teams, delivering instruments and payloads for demanding environments.

Responsibilities include leading optical instrument design, managing teams, performing analyses, and shaping proposals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• At least 7 years of experience in opto-mechanical design.
• Experience with SolidWorks or PTC CAD software.
• Experience with Zemax or Code V.
• Thermal and vibrational analysis experience.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Knowledge of GD&T and engineering drawing standards.
• Willing to travel occasionally (5%) to NASA facilities and sites.

Responsibilities

• Design, draft, and oversee fabrication of parts and sub-assemblies.
• Perform mechanical analyses and interface with thermal and stress engineers to verify design integrity.
• Lead teams of other mechanical engineers and related disciplines
• Lead optical instrument design, test, and integration
• Design mechanical GSE and test fixtures.
• Work closely with scientists to determine appropriate mechanical requirements.
• Provide input to instrument proposals and assist in development of new and/or improved instrument concepts.

Skills

Opto-mechanical design

Team leadership

Mechanical design

Thermal analysis

Vibration analysis

Interpersonal communication

GD&T

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent

Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent

Tools

SolidWorks

PTC CAD software

Zemax

Code V

Job description

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and integration of spaceflight hardware for civil space exploration and national security missions. You will collaborate with optical, mechanical, structural, and thermal teams, delivering instruments and payloads for demanding environments.

Responsibilities include leading optical instrument design, managing teams, performing analyses, and shaping proposals.