Space Science Instrumentation – Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer

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

Description

Do you want to design and build unique scientific instruments for NASA spacecraft that enable groundbreaking scientific discovery throughout the solar system and beyond?

Are you passionate about strengthening our nation’s security by developing advanced space systems that support critical defense missions?

Do you enjoy working in a highly collaborative environment with engineers from multiple disciplines to solve complex technical challenges and deliver flight hardware?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer ready to take on new challenges as part of our team leading the design, development, integration, and delivery of spaceflight hardware for both civil space exploration and national security missions. You will work alongside systems, optical, mechanical, structural, and thermal engineers, in partnership with our companion group, SRX, which provides electronics, FPGA, firmware, and software expertise.

Together, we design, analyze, build, integrate, test, and deliver high-performance spaceflight instruments and payloads that operate in some of the most demanding environments imaginable. Our work spans the complete program lifecycle—from concept development and proposal efforts through design, fabrication, environmental qualification, integration, launch support, and on-orbit operations. Our programs support NASA’s science portfolio, including missions such as Parker Solar Probe, DART, Europa Clipper, Dragonfly, and future flagship missions, while also advancing innovative technologies and operational capabilities for Department of War and other national security space missions.

As a senior opto-mechanical engineer you will...

• Design, draft, and oversee fabrication of parts and sub-assemblies.
• Perform mechanical analyses and/or 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.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Possess a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Have at least 7 years of experience working in opto-mechanical design.
• Are experienced with PTC CAD software or SolidWorks.
• Are experienced with optical design software such as Zemax or Code V.
• Are experienced with thermal analysis and vibrational analysis.
• Have excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, and have demonstrated success while working within a team environment.
• Have knowledge of GD&T and engineering drawing standards.
• Are willing and able to travel occasionally (5%) to NASA facilities and sub-contractor sites.
• Are willing and able to support shift work occasionally (5%) during Integration and Test events.
• Are able to obtain a Top Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Possess a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• 15 years experience overall in mechanical design and/or analysis.
• Have experience leading design of opto-mechanical systems.
• Have experience in space hardware development.
• Have hands‑on experience with laboratory testing, instrumentation, or hardware integration.
• Have knowledge of design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) principles.
• Have an active Secret or Top Secret security clearance.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [e-mail].

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign‑on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term disability, long‑term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$290,000 Annually