Associate Mechanical Engineer in Colorado Springs, Colorado at OPTICAL ENGINES INC

Associate Mechanical Engineer / Junior Mechanical Engineer

Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado | Position: Full-Time, On-Site
Experience: Entry-Level to 2 Years | Reports To: Mechanical Engineering Lead or Engineering Manager

POSITION SUMMARY

Optical Engines Inc. (OEI) is seeking a motivated, hands-on Associate Mechanical Engineer to support the design, development, prototyping, testing, and continuous improvement of advanced laser, photonics, fiber-optic, and electro-optical systems.

This entry-level position provides exposure to the complete engineering lifecycle, from initial concepts and CAD modeling through prototype fabrication, laboratory testing, troubleshooting, and production implementation. The engineer will collaborate with experienced mechanical, optical, electrical, and systems engineers, as well as machinists, assembly technicians, and quality personnel.

The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical engineering fundamentals, CAD proficiency, practical problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and an interest in working directly with physical hardware.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Mechanical Design and Engineering

• Design and modify mechanical components, assemblies, enclosures, brackets, fixtures, and precision optomechanical hardware.
• Develop 3D models, engineering drawings, assemblies, and bills of materials using SolidWorks or comparable CAD software.
• Apply mechanical design principles, material selection, dimensional tolerancing, and interface requirements.
• Support fiber-routing, component mounting, protective housing, and thermal-management designs.
• Maintain accurate engineering drawings, revisions, and technical documentation.

2. Prototyping and Manufacturing Collaboration

• Work directly with machinists and technicians to translate engineering designs into physical hardware.
• Support CNC machining, 3D printing, and other rapid-prototyping methods.
• Participate in prototype builds, assembly, component installation, and mechanical integration.
• Evaluate fit, alignment, dimensional accuracy, and assembly processes.
• Recommend design-for-manufacturing (DFM) improvements to reduce complexity, cost, and fabrication time.

3. Thermal and Structural Engineering

• Support mechanical and thermal design of high-power laser and photonics systems.
• Assist with heat sink, cooling plate, mounting interface, and thermal-management designs.
• Perform basic calculations involving heat transfer, material properties, stress, deflection, and tolerances.
• Support finite element analysis (FEA), thermal simulations, and engineering investigations as skills develop.

4. Testing, Troubleshooting, and Validation

• Assist with mechanical inspections, dimensional measurements, fit checks, and functional testing.
• Support laboratory testing and integration of optical and laser systems.
• Use precision measurement equipment, including calipers, micrometers, and height gauges.
• Help identify and resolve mechanical interference, alignment, vibration, thermal, and assembly issues.
• Collect and document test data, support design verification, and communicate findings to senior engineers.

5. Manufacturing Support and Continuous Improvement

• Resolve design-related production issues in collaboration with manufacturing personnel.
• Develop and maintain assembly procedures, work instructions, inspection criteria, and engineering documentation.
• Support configuration control, material traceability, and quality requirements.
• Recommend improvements that enhance product reliability, repeatability, manufacturability, and cost effectiveness.

6. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with mechanical, optical, electrical, and systems engineering teams.
• Participate in design reviews, technical problem-solving, and prototype-to-production transitions.
• Assume progressively more complex engineering assignments as technical capabilities develop.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Working knowledge of statics, mechanics of materials, heat transfer, and materials science.
• Basic proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and engineering drawings, preferably SolidWorks.
• Understanding of dimensional tolerancing, mechanical assemblies, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and bills of materials.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to work hands-on with prototypes, test equipment, and production hardware.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Internship, co-op, research, or project experience involving mechanical design or product development.
• Experience with SolidWorks, Onshape, or comparable parametric CAD software.
• Familiarity with CNC machining, milling, turning, additive manufacturing, or 3D printing.
• Exposure to thermal analysis, FEA, or engineering simulation tools.
• Experience with precision assemblies, enclosures, heat sinks, fixtures, or optomechanical components.
• Exposure to lasers, fiber optics, photonics, scientific instrumentation, or aerospace/defense manufacturing.
• Familiarity with engineering documentation and quality-management practices.

PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTES

The successful candidate will demonstrate curiosity, practical engineering judgment, accountability, attention to detail, adaptability, and a willingness to learn. Equally important is the ability to collaborate respectfully with experienced engineers, machinists, technicians, and manufacturing personnel and to follow assigned problems through to resolution.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This is an on-site position combining CAD design, engineering analysis, machine-shop collaboration, hands-on prototyping, laboratory testing, and manufacturing support. Employees must follow applicable machine-shop, laser, electrical, and electrostatic-discharge (ESD) safety procedures.

MEASURES OF SUCCESS

Performance will be evaluated based on:

• Accuracy and quality of CAD models, drawings, and documentation.
• Timely completion of engineering assignments.
• Successful prototype fit, assembly, and testing.
• Effectiveness in identifying and resolving design and manufacturing issues.
• Application of engineering fundamentals and responsiveness to feedback.
• Contributions to manufacturability, reliability, quality, and cost improvement.
• Growth in technical independence, accountability, and ownership.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

This position establishes a foundation for advancement into Mechanical Engineer, Mechanical Engineer II, Senior Mechanical Engineer, or specialized roles in optomechanical design, thermal engineering, and product development. Increased responsibility will accompany demonstrated competency in independent design, engineering analysis, prototype development, design verification, and manufacturing support.