Mechanical Engineer I
Thorlabs
This job at a glance
- Who can apply
- New grads and up to 4 years
- Must know
- TroubleshootingSolidWorksCADFEAMicrosoft OfficeStatistics
- Work
- On-site in Lafayette
- Pay
- Not stated by the employer.
- Skill demand
- CAD59%SolidWorks31%Troubleshooting26%FEA17%of 145 similar entry-level jobs posted in the US this week
- Listed
- Nov 11, 2026 · still open
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About the Role
The Mechanical Engineer I supports the design, development, and testing of optomechanical components and instrumentation. This role contributes to advanced photonics products from concept and prototyping through validation and transfer to manufacturing, considering hermetic, thermal, and stress requirements. The position works closely with optical, electrical, and manufacturing teams to ensure designs meet technical requirements and customer needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in developing optomechanical solutions for components and instrumentation under supervision.
- Create part documentation for advanced optomechanical solutions and fixturing solutions, developing proficiency in documentation best practices.
- Perform testing and analysis of components and instrumentation under supervision, following documented validation plans.
- Assist in preparing required documentation for components and instrumentation.
- Assist in developing fixturing solutions for development and production.
- Provide regular development status updates to the supervisor.
- Participate in design, model, and drawing reviews.
- Collaborate with optical and electrical engineering teams to ensure mechanical designs meet cross-disciplinary requirements.
- Recommend innovations and improvements to methods, tools, and processes.
- Assist with project planning, estimation, and tracking.
- Assist with sourcing and qualification of parts and vendors.
- Maintain mechanical design documentation.
- Create assembly and test instructions.
- Assist and train production staff in troubleshooting technical issues.
- Perform other related duties and assignments as required.
Requirements & Tech Stack
- Working knowledge of SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
- Working knowledge of SolidWorks Simulation or similar FEA software.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Qualifications
- BS or higher degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field required.
- Entry level to 4 years of experience in optomechanical design.
- Exposure to PLM software for managing part documentation and willingness to develop proficiency.
- Knowledge of optomechanical solutions for the photonics market preferred.
- Familiarity with statistical data analysis techniques and strong problem-solving abilities.
- Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to document work.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Self-motivated and comfortable working in a dynamic, start-up-like environment.
- Demonstrated ability to develop innovative designs.
- Ability to follow and develop processes.
- Must be a US person to work with ITAR products.