Entry-Level Opto-Mechanical Design Engineer

Attalon / Location Overview

Attalon is a U.S.-based aerospace and defense technology company created in 2025 when Advent International carved out Coherent's Aerospace & Defense division. Attalon develops and produces mission‑critical optical systems, precision coatings, and advanced laser subsystems used in ISR&T, space, missile, and directed‑energy applications.

Entry-Level Opto-Mechanical Design Engineer

This role involves conceptualizing and creating optical, mechanical, and opto-mechanical system layouts; developing highly complex designs; and ensuring optimal system performance. The position requires producing efficient opto-mechanical design and packaging concepts using 3D solid modeling software per customer requirements. Responsibilities include developing models for analysis, prototyping, and production, as well as providing technical guidance on mechanical design and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Design opto-mechanical components and assemblies (e.g., telescopes and sensors) for airborne and space applications.
• Develop product designs and processes that meet customer specifications and technical requirements.
• Coordinate design engineering activities on assigned projects.
• Support advanced technology development by contributing ideas for new concepts, research, and development activities.
• Prepare and maintain drawings, procedures, work instructions, and Bills of Materials with document and configuration control.
• Assist in proposal development and provide inputs for project quotations.
• Provide tooling design support to new and existing projects.
• Design and develop assembly and testing procedures for new projects.
• Troubleshoot existing designs and processes to identify areas for improvement.
• Provide estimates and updates regarding financial goals to program management.
• Assess manufacturability of design concepts and collaborate on process enhancements.
• Participate in test, development, and troubleshooting efforts with technical teams.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with knowledge of optical and mechanical design processes.
• Proficiency in CAD software; experience with SOLIDWORKS preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to achieve results independently or collaboratively.
• Proficient mechanical design skills with CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) and familiarity with FEA (Simcenter or FEMAP).
• Experience in optical systems design from concept to production, including analysis of optics, mounting strategies, tolerances, manufacturability, and cost.
• Knowledge of tolerance stack analysis and strong analytical problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with design of optical systems for advanced light sources and associated assembly techniques.
• Understanding of optical materials (e.g., crystalline, glass, polymer), mechanical structures, adhesives, coatings, and materials used in opto-mechanical systems.
• Basic knowledge of thermal, mechanical, vibration, and shock effects on optical systems.
• Experience with optical alignment tools and methods, metrology techniques (interferometers, spectrophotometers, theodolites, etc.), and GD&T (Y14.5).
• Software proficiency in MS Office and ERP systems.
• Vendor/supplier management for optics, mechanics, tooling fabrication, and coatings.

For California, the salary pay range for this role is $73,500 - $99,050 per year.
Please note this range is provided as a general guideline. When determining an offer, Attalon takes into account multiple factors, including (but not limited to) the responsibilities of the position, your professional experience, education and training, specialized skills, and current market and business conditions.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Attalon, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Export Control Compliance

This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.