Build, evaluate, and test new hardware designs, identifying issues, limitations, and opportunities for improvement.
Build, operate, and maintain test setups to perform mechanical and system-level validation.
Perform rigorous testing and troubleshoot failures to implement corrective actions.
Conduct inspection, metrology, and quality verification to ensure build accuracy.
Develop and maintain formal test procedures and production documentation.
Apply risk mitigation and reliability practices (e.g., FMEA) to manufacturing and testing processes.
Independently research and implement new techniques, processes, and tools to improve hardware performance and manufacturability.
Collaborate with engineering and physics teams to support design validation, integration, and prototype iteration.

Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Physics, Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
7+ years of hands-on experience in hardware integration, test, or advanced system builds (aerospace, photonics, quantum, or similar).
Strong background in optical systems (alignment, lasers, photonics, or precision optics).
Demonstrated ability to independently develop and execute process development, build, integration, and test processes.
Experience working across mechanical, electrical, and optical domains.
Proven track record of troubleshooting complex hardware systems and driving issues to resolution.
Experience working in lab, cleanroom, or controlled environments.
Nice-to-Have
Experience with electrical testing and instrumentation.
Familiarity with basic electronics, wiring, and signal testing.
Experience with shock and vibration (vibe) testing.
Experience with inspection and metrology tools.
Ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems experience and UHV design.
Knowledge of contamination control practices in cleanroom or controlled environments.
Experience with materials selection and handling for precision or vacuum-compatible components.
Statistical process control (SPC) or quality management experience.
Experience designing custom fixtures, tooling, or test setups.
Proficiency with SolidWorks or other 3D modeling software.

Senior Optical & Hardware Integration Engineer

About this role