Position Overview:
We are seeking a hands-on Opto-Mechanical & Optical Assembly Engineer to support the design, assembly, alignment, and integration of precision free-space optical communication (FSOC) systems. This cross-disciplinary role combines opto-mechanical design with laboratory optical alignment expertise to enable high-performance laser communication terminals for space, airborne, and ground-based platforms.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and develop precision opto-mechanical housing, metering structure, mounts, fixtures, and enclosures for free-space laser communication systems.
- Lead the alignment and assembly of optical subsystems, including collimators, beam expanders, fast steering mirrors, prisms, and optical benches.
- Collaborate with optical and systems engineers to develop and ensure best practice in optical path layout, tolerancing, and kinematic alignment strategies.
- Create detailed mechanical drawings and 3D models using SolidWorks, Creo, or equivalent CAD tools.
- Conduct FEA and thermal analysis to ensure performance under vibration, shock, and thermal gradients.
- Develop and follow detailed assembly and integration procedures for optical terminals.
- Work in the lab to perform hands-on optical alignment using interferometers, beam profilers, and autocollimators.
- Assist in the design and assembly of optical alignment jigs and test stations.
- Support environmental testing, including thermal-vacuum and vibration qualification of optical subsystems.
Required Qualifications:
- B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
- 3+ years of experience in opto-mechanical design and precision optical assembly.
- Experience working with free-space laser communication systems or high-precision optical systems (e.g., telescopes, beam steering modules, lidar).
- Proficient in CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo) and mechanical tolerancing (GD&T).
- Familiarity with optical alignment techniques and lab tools (e.g., laser alignment, alignment scopes, micrometers).
- Ability to interpret optical layout drawings and interface with optical designers.
- Comfortable working in cleanroom or controlled lab environments.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with space- or flight-qualified opto-mechanical assemblies.
- Knowledge of SWaP-C considerations and design for manufacturing/assembly (DFMA).
- Familiarity with optical communication link concepts, beam divergence, and pointing/tracking mechanisms.
- Experience with Risley prism or gimbal-based optical steering systems.
- Background in aerospace or defense programs is a strong plus.
What We Offer:
- Competitive compensation and equity packages
- Access to advanced optical test labs and cleanroom facilities
- A collaborative, multidisciplinary team working on next-gen optical communications
- Opportunities for technical growth, autonomy, and leadership
- Flexible work environment with strong emphasis on innovation and impact
Join Us
If you're excited about building the future of connectivity in space, we'd love to talk.
About Ravee Optics:
The next space race is not about rockets. It's about data in orbit. Thousands of satellites, on-orbit compute nodes, and autonomous space systems will soon require high-speed, secure, and scalable connectivity in space. RF links cannot keep up with the data demands of this new orbital infrastructure. Ravee Optics is building next-generation optical communications terminals to power the future of inter-satellite connectivity and on-orbit data transport.