Mechanical Technician, Opto-Mechanical

The role

This person will perform assembly, alignment, integration, and testing of opto-mechanical systems and components. Work supports the development of space-to-space power beaming spacecraft and the Star Catcher Network.

What you will do

• Assemble opto-mechanical systems, sub-assemblies, and support structures using engineering drawings and work instructions.
• Align optical elements to specified tolerances using laser trackers, autocollimators, and sub-micron position stages.
• Handle, clean, and install flight optics under contamination control protocols.
• Mix and apply flight-qualified epoxies, silicones, and locking compounds to optical mounts.
• Perform precision torquing of flight hardware fasteners.
• Fabricate and modify parts, fixtures, and tooling to support build and alignment operations.
• Prepare and support opto-mechanical hardware through environmental and optical performance tests.
• Inspect hardware with CMMs and PCMMs, and document nonconformances.
• Partner with engineers to resolve benchtop clearance issues and improve assembly procedures.

Required qualifications

• Associate's degree, technical certificate, or equivalent hands-on experience in a mechanical, manufacturing, or optical discipline.
• At least four years of experience assembling, aligning, and testing precision mechanical or opto-mechanical hardware in an aerospace manufacturing environment or other relevant industry experience.
• Experience aligning optical elements using autocollimators, laser trackers, or interferometers.
• Proven experience with precision torquing and with bonding, potting, and shimming of spacecraft assemblies.
• Familiarity with laser safety practice for Class IV laser operations, including controlled area procedures, eyewear selection, and beam path control.
• Ability to read and build to drawings with GD&T.
• Creative problem-solving skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate and work in a multidisciplinary team setting.
• Willingness to follow company standards and procedures.

Nice to have

• Machine shop experience on manual mill, manual lathe, or CNC equipment, fabricating fixtures and tooling to support precision build and alignment.
• Experience building or operating ground support equipment and handling fixtures for optical hardware.
• Experience supporting thermal vacuum, vibration, or optical performance test campaigns.
• Demonstrated expertise in mechanical design principles and CAD software (Autodesk Inventor preferred).
• Familiarity regulations and standards relevant to space missions and operations.

Benefits

• Medical coverage
• Dental coverage
• Vision coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Life insurance
• Paid parental leave

Before you apply

• All offers of employment are contingent upon results of a thorough background check.
• Must provide proof of eligibility to work in the US.
• To conform to ITAR, you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from t

About the company

Star Catcher is building the first energy grid in space to power the orbital economy. The company is building technology to wirelessly beam energy to spacecraft's existing solar panels.