Optical Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Opto-Mechanical Engineer / Optical Engineer

Summary

We are seeking an Opto‑Mechanical Engineer / Optical Engineer to support the design, modeling, prototyping, and testing of advanced optical and opto‑mechanical systems used in medical and imaging applications. This role is well‑suited for entry‑level candidates with a strong physics or optics foundation who are excited to apply their academic experience to real‑world hardware development. You will work hands‑on in an optical lab, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and grow your skills with mentorship from experienced engineers.

Responsibilities

• Optical system setup — Assemble and align laser, imaging, and illumination systems; perform optical testing and collect data.
• Opto‑mechanical design — Contribute to the design of precision optical mounts, mechanical assemblies, and structural components.
• CAD modeling — Create and update mechanical parts and assemblies in SolidWorks; training provided.
• Prototype development — Support early‑stage builds, troubleshooting, and iterative design improvements.
• Data analysis — Analyze optical and mechanical test results to validate system performance.
• Cross‑functional collaboration — Work with Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory, and Clinical teams to ensure designs meet requirements.
• Design documentation — Assist in creating drawings, specifications, and test reports for manufacturing partners.
• Manufacturing support — Participate in verification, validation, and design‑transfer activities for medical devices.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Physics , Optical Science , Mechanical Engineering , or a related field.
• Foundational understanding of optics , including lasers, imaging, illumination, or photonics.
• Hands‑on experience in an academic or research optics lab .
• Interest in learning SolidWorks and optical design tools (Zemax, Code V).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.

Preferred Qualifications (Not Required for Entry‑Level)

• Exposure to Zemax or Code V for optical modeling.
• Experience with FEA , GD&T, or tolerance analysis.
• Familiarity with precision optical mounts, thermal considerations, or vibration/shock design.
• Experience in medical device development or regulated environments.

Work Environment

This role is primarily based in an optical test laboratory, working hands‑on with lasers, imaging systems, and precision mechanical assemblies. You will regularly use CAD tools, optical design software, and analysis tools while collaborating with engineers across optics, mechanics, manufacturing, and quality. The environment emphasizes precision, safety, and adherence to documented procedures typical of medical device development.

Job Description

This role focuses on designing, modeling, analyzing, prototyping, and developing advanced opto-mechanical systems, including laser, imaging, illumination, and precision optical mounting solutions, with applications in areas such as medical devices. The engineer will take concepts from design through validation and transfer to manufacturing, working closely with multidisciplinary teams in a highly regulated environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Rochester, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $70.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Rochester,MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 7, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.