1

Optical Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eng Sr Prin - Mech

Merrimack, NH · On-site

$132.96K - $226.04K/yr

BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Senior Principal Optical - Mechanical Engineer to join our EO/IR Capability Group . This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical ...

Collaborate with X-ray optical scientists and engineers to translate optical and experimental requirements into mechanical designs * Perform tolerance, thermal, and structural analyses to ensure ...

Collaborate with X-ray optical scientists and engineers to translate optical and experimental requirements into mechanical designs * Perform tolerance, thermal, and structural analyses to ensure ...

Our Blacksburg, VA engineering team develops the optical test and measurement equipment and fiber optic sensing platforms that define the state of the art in distributed measurement. We design ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Optical Mechanical Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do optical mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical mechanical engineer in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Mechanical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, optics, and materials science, ideally supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), optical design tools (like Zemax or Code V), and experience with precision manufacturing processes are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These competencies enable engineers to design and develop complex optical systems that meet performance, manufacturability, and reliability standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Optical Mechanical Engineers when integrating optical and mechanical components?

Optical Mechanical Engineers often encounter challenges related to aligning precise optical elements within mechanical assemblies while maintaining stability and minimizing distortion. Achieving tight tolerances is critical, as even slight misalignments can impact system performance. Additionally, they must consider factors such as thermal expansion, vibration, and environmental conditions, which can affect both mechanical and optical integrity. Collaboration with optical designers, manufacturing teams, and quality assurance is essential to address these challenges effectively and ensure successful product development.

What are Optical Mechanical Engineers?

Optical Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and integrate mechanical components and systems that support optical devices, such as lenses, mirrors, lasers, and cameras. They ensure that these components maintain precise alignment, stability, and functionality in complex optical systems. Their work often involves collaborating with optical and electrical engineers to create products like microscopes, telescopes, medical imaging devices, and laser systems. Additionally, they use specialized software to model and simulate mechanical designs, ensuring durability and reliability under various environmental conditions.

What is the difference between Optical Mechanical Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectOptical Mechanical EngineerOptical Engineer
Required credentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical, Mechanical, or related engineeringBachelor's or Master's in Optical, Physics, or related field
Work environmentDesigning and testing optical-mechanical systems, often in labs or manufacturingDeveloping optical systems, testing, and analysis, often in R&D or production
Industry usageOptics, aerospace, defense, medical devicesOptics, telecommunications, imaging, laser systems

Optical Mechanical Engineers focus on integrating optical components with mechanical systems, while Optical Engineers primarily work on designing and analyzing optical systems. Both roles require strong technical skills and often overlap in industries like aerospace and medical devices, but their core responsibilities differ in system integration versus optical design.

More about Optical Mechanical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Optical Mechanical Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Optical Mechanical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Mechanical Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Optical Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
Eng Sr Prin - Mech

Eng Sr Prin - Mech

BAE Systems

Merrimack, NH • On-site

$132.96K - $226.04K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Description
Thank you for your interest in BAE Systems! This opening is included as part of our June 2026 Countermeasure & Electromagnetic Attack Solutions Engineering Hiring Event. While we encourage all interested professionals to apply, please note that this is a selection-based interview event for candidates whose skills and experience match our hiring needs. If your background and skill set match these needs, we will reach out with next steps. If selected for an interview, specific opportunities based on your interests, experience, and skill set will be discussed with the hiring team. For candidates not local to the southern NH area, virtual interviews will be accommodated.
BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Senior Principal Optical - Mechanical Engineer to join our EO/IR Capability Group. This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical and Laser specialists dedicated to developing innovative hardware solutions that drive the success of our program portfolio.
BAE Systems is seeking a proactive Sr. Principal Optical - Mechanical Engineer with analytical capabilities and demonstrated technical expertise. This individual will provide leadership and support to the design, development, integration/test, and production of dynamic optomechanical military systems. The engineer will work closely with hardware integrated into a variety of complex IR technology products including lasers, receivers, sensors, as well as multi-axis beam directors/gimbals.
  • Demonstrated experience in product development and support of DoD military electronics equipment
  • Leadership of HW engineering teams in the design & development of military systems
  • Working experience packaging with EO/IR products such as; lasers, receivers, fiber optics, and/or related IR technologies
  • Solid fundamentals of mechanical design, analysis, and documentation principles
  • Experience with state-of-the-art mechanical engineering development software tools
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills including development of engineering documentation and presentations
  • Motivated self-starter and problem solver with proven experience executing in multi-disciplinary teams
  • Strong computer skills in basic MS office and technical programs
  • Knowledge of engineering development processes
  • Eligible to obtain a DOD Security Clearance

Hybrid: Onsite 3 days per week
About BAE Systems Electronic Systems
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and commercial electronics. Exploiting every electron, we push the limits of what is possible, giving our customers the edge and our employees opportunities to change the world. Our products and capabilities can be found everywhere - from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space. At our core are more than 14,000 highly talented Electronic Systems employees with the brightest minds in the industry, we make an impact - for our customers and the communities we serve.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Required Skills and Education
Requires:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and 10+ years experience (8+ years with a masters degree)
  • Demonstrated experience in product development and support of DoD military electronics equipment
  • Leadership of HW engineering teams in the design & development of military systems
  • Working experience with lasers, receivers, fiber optics, and/or related IR technologies
  • Solid fundamentals of mechanical design, analysis, and documentation principles
  • Experience with state-of-the-art mechanical engineering development software tools
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills including development of engineering documentation and presentations
  • Motivated self-starter and problem solver with proven experience executing in multi-disciplinary teams
  • Strong computer skills in basic MS office and technical programs
  • Knowledge of engineering development processes
  • Eligible to obtain a DOD Security Clearance

Preferred Skills and Education
Preferred:
  • Knowledge/experience with optomechanical designs & developments
  • Knowledge of MIL specs & standards, industry standards including ASTM, SAE, DO
  • Experience in the design/development of active motion controlled hardware
  • Experience in the design and manufacture of electronic circuit card assemblies
  • ANSYS Workbench/Mechanical, PTC Creo, MATLAB/Simulink, Siemens NX, ANSYS Icepak
  • Knowledge of design for manufacturing (DFM) principles

Benefits Information
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
Intern Benefits: Temporary employees generally are not eligible for BAE Systems benefits, but can elect to participate in the 401(k) savings plan. Temporary employees working 20+ hours per week are eligible for medical benefits, the employee assistance program, and business travel accident insurance.
Please note: Some benefits may be different for union employees that are governed by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) or for positions covered by a wage law called the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA).

What BAE Systems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom