Optomechanical Engineer

Add expected salary to your profile for insightsOur client is building high-throughput, laser-based communication terminals for deployment in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

Their mission is to transform satellite communications with innovative optical technologies that can deliver extreme data rates across vast distances.Currently in the R&D phase of their next-generation FSOC terminal, they are assembling a multidisciplinary engineering team capable of taking advanced optical hardware from concept to orbit.

You'll join a close-knit, engineering-led company where autonomy, ownership, and deep technical thinking are highly valued.About the roleWe are seeking a mid-to-senior level Optomechanical Engineer to lead the design and integration of precision assemblies within FSOC systems.This role sits at the intersection of mechanical, optical, and thermal engineering — requiring strong systems thinking, a hands-on approach to prototyping, and the ability to translate delicate optical layouts into robust, space-qualified hardware.You will design, build, and validate high-stability optical assemblies capable of surviving launch stresses, operating reliably in LEO, and delivering mission-critical performance for long-range laser communications.Key responsibilities : Design, prototype, and iterate optomechanical assemblies for high-precision optical alignment and structural stability in LEO environments.Translate optical layouts and tolerances into manufacturable CAD designs.Own the development of precision optics capability within the company.Collaborate with optical, systems, and test engineers to align mechanical designs with system-level performance targets.Support qualification testing campaigns with specialist optics knowledge.Contribute to technical documentation, design reviews, and internal design standards.Required Skills and ExperienceBachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field.3+ years' hands-on experience designing optomechanical systems.Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks, Creo, or NX) and engineering drawing generation.Familiarity with Zemax, Code V, or similar optical modelling tools.Demonstrated understanding of optical tolerancing and alignment fundamentals.Knowledge of material properties, coatings, and design trade-offs for space environments (vacuum, thermal gradients, vibration).

Ability to work in a fast-paced R&D environment with limited guidance, taking ownership from concept to delivery.Experience designing and architecting optical systems using lasers, mirrors, and lenses.Ability to model and design custom optical components such as lenses.Nice to HaveExperience with FSOC, satellite payloads, or LEO-certified hardware.Experience with bonded optics, additive manufacturing, or advanced fabrication techniques.Prior work designing optomechanical systems for space, aerospace, or high-precision instrumentation.Structural and thermal analysis experience (ANSYS, COMSOL).

Startup or new product development experience.Competitive remuneration.Annual salary reviews.A high-trust environment with autonomy over your work.The opportunity to work on real hardware for real space missions.This is a chance to work on ambitious technology with tangible impact — your designs will fly.

If you thrive in a hands-on, high-accountability environment and want to be part of a small, talented team building breakthrough space systems, we want to hear from you.How to applyApply now — send your CV, relevant portfolio, and a brief statement of interest to (emailprotected) or call 021 244 7567 for a confidential discussion.Index Scientific and Technical Recruitment is New Zealand's only recruitment company run by scientists.

We specialise in serving science, technology, and manufacturing companies.

We have the trust of some of the most successful New Zealand and international companies to identify talented technical specialists, managers, executives, regulatory & compliance, and sales & business development specialists.

Our commitment lies in enhancing the operation of New Zealand's innovation ecosystem and helping technology and manufacturing companies succeed both locally and internationally.Unlock job insightsSalary match Number of applicants Skills matchYour application will include the following questions : Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in New Zealand?

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