Senior Optomechanical Engineer

Senior Optomechanical Engineer Location: Berlin (Onsite) About Us We are a defense technology startup based in Berlin, building the next generation defense layer against aerial threats. Our systems combine high-power laser technology, precision tracking, embedded control, and real-time software to operate reliably in complex operational environments. Operating in stealth mode, we place strong emphasis on engineering rigor, first-principles physics, and uncompromising performance validation. Role Overview We are seeking a Senior Optomechanical Engineer to work on the design, integration, and qualification of precision optical hardware for high-performance laser and imaging systems. This is a high-impact role focused on translating demanding optical performance requirements into robust, field-deployable hardware. You will own the development of optomechanical assemblies including beam directors, telescope systems, fast steering mirror assemblies, and fiber-coupled laser subsystems. You will work closely with optical, mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to deliver lightweight, alignment-stable systems capable of maintaining performance under shock, vibration, and real-world operational conditions. This position requires onsite work and eligibility for German security clearance. Key Responsibilities • Work on the design, integration, and optimization of precision optomechanical assemblies from concept through production. • Own the mechanical architecture of optical systems, ensuring boresight stability, alignment retention, and environmental robustness. • Design and develop optical mounts, structural interfaces, alignment mechanisms, and precision assemblies for telescopes, beam directors, imaging systems, and fast steering mirror platforms. • Develop lightweight optomechanical solutions that meet performance requirements while minimizing size, weight, and power (SWaP). • Analyze and mitigate performance degradation caused by thermal drift, structural deformation, vibration, shock loading, and environmental effects. • Define optical alignment, calibration, and assembly strategies for complex laser and imaging systems. • Assemble, integrate, and characterize precision optical hardware in the laboratory. • Collaborate with optical engineers to translate optical requirements into manufacturable and field-deployable designs. • Work with suppliers to specify, source, and qualify custom optical components, precision machined parts, and specialized optomechanical hardware. • Support environmental testing and qualification activities, including vibration, shock, and thermal testing. • Partner with software and controls teams to support beam steering, tracking, and stabilization systems. • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians. Required Qualifications • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. • 5+ years of professional experience developing precision optomechanical systems. • Strong experience designing and integrating optical hardware using SolidWorks or equivalent CAD tools. • Proven experience with precision alignment-sensitive assemblies and optical integration. • Experience developing hardware for laser systems, imaging systems, telescopes, beam directors, or related optical platforms. • Strong understanding of boresight stability, alignment retention, thermal effects, and vibration-sensitive systems. • Hands-on experience assembling, aligning, testing, and troubleshooting complex optical hardware. • Strong analytical skills and a data-driven approach to engineering decision-making. Preferred Qualifications • Experience with beam directors, telescope assemblies, fast steering mirrors, or EO/IR systems. • Experience with fiber-coupled laser systems and precision laser hardware. • Experience designing systems for high-shock and high-vibration environments. • Familiarity with environmental qualification testing and ruggedized hardware development. • Experience developing lightweight structures for airborne, mobile, or field-deployed platforms. • Knowledge of optical tolerancing, alignment methods, and precision manufacturing processes. • Background in defense, aerospace, photonics, or other high-reliability engineering environments. • Experience leading technical projects or mentoring engineers. What We Offer • Competitive salary • VSOP / equity participation • Central Berlin office • Extreme growth opportunity in a fast-scaling defense startup • Holiday allowance • Monthly voucher • Public transportation subsidies Who You Are • Technically accountable: You take ownership of system performance from design through qualification. • Hands-on: You are comfortable moving between CAD, laboratory integration, testing, and field validation. • Precision-focused: You understand that optical performance depends on mechanical stability, alignment retention, and robust design. • Systems-minded: You naturally consider thermal, structural, manufacturing, and operational constraints when developing solutions. • Collaborative: You work effectively across optics, mechanical, electrical, controls, and software disciplines.