Mechanical / Electro-Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical / Electro-Mechanical EngineerOptopax is a Silicon Valley–based design and OEM manufacturing company delivering integrated AI imaging solutions—from concept through production. We specialize in AI-enabled camera modules, precision optics spanning UV to LWIR, and custom embedded systems for robotics, industrial vision, submersible imaging, biomedical devices, AR/VR, and optical computing. We are a small, highly technical team headquartered in San Jose, CA, building real hardware that ships.About the RoleWe are looking for a hands-on Mechanical / Electro-Mechanical Engineer who can take loosely defined requirements from optics and test teams and turn them into robust, manufacturable systems. This is not a CAD-only role and not a pure manufacturing role. You will design, build, assemble, test, debug, and iterate optical fixtures, camera test stations, and electro-mechanical subsystems—often under tight timelines. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys being equally comfortable in CAD, at the bench, and on the shop floor, and who understands how design decisions affect assembly, yield, reliability, and cost.What You'll DoDesign integrated electro-mechanical and opto-mechanical systems for camera modules, optical test fixtures, and precision assembliesTranslate specifications from optics, test, and embedded teams into manufacturable hardware designsCreate detailed 3D CAD models and production drawings (Fusion 360 preferred)Apply DFM/DFA, GD&T, and tolerance stack-ups to ensure repeatable buildsDesign and integrate multi-axis motion systems (linear stages, actuators, motors, encoders)Build and evaluate prototypes using 3D printing, CNC machining, and sheet-metal fabricationAssemble and test precision mechanical and optical assemblies, including camera modules and fixtures Develop and run test setups, collect data, and document resultsSource components and work directly with vendors, machine shops, and optical suppliersSupport transition from prototype to low-volume and production buildsCollaborate closely with optics, firmware, electronics, and manufacturing teamsWhat You'll BringDegree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related field with years of professional experienceStrong CAD skills (Fusion 360 preferred)Strong experience with DFM/DFA, GD&T, and tolerance analysisProven hands-on prototyping and fabrication experience (CNC/manual machining, 3D printing, sheet metal, fixtures, jigs)Experience integrating electro-mechanical and motion systemsComfortable working with small, precision mechanical and optical assembliesExperience using and integrating microcontrollers and SBCs into testing platformsSoftware experience (Python and/or C++) for test or automationLab-oriented mindset with attention to detail and practical problem solvingClear written and verbal communication skillsNice to HaveFamiliarity with common optical and motion vendors (e.g., Thorlabs, Edmund Optics, Newport)Experience designing optical test fixtures or camera test systemsControl system integration (PLCs, motion controllers, sensors)FEA experience (static, thermal, modal, or nonlinear)Experience working with external manufacturers and machine shopsExposure to early-stage product development and rapid iteration cyclesWhy Optopax?Work at the intersection of optics, AI, and embedded systemsOwn hardware from concept through manufacturingSee your designs quickly turn into working systems used in real-world applicationsJoin a small, high-impact team where engineering decisions matterCompensation: $80,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year