Mechatronics Engineer

About the Role

Bright Silicon Technologies (BST) is replacing vulnerable RF links and bulky mechanical gimbals with solid‑state optical solutions. We are defining a new era in lasercoms, going from single‑point static links to multi‑point agile networks. Our flagship product, OCTANE (Optical Communication Terminal for Advanced NEtworking), is an un‑jammable, RF‑silent free‑space optical terminal delivering secure, high‑bandwidth data transport across airborne platforms and ground vehicles and stations, enabling dense mesh networks on high mobility platforms.

We’re looking for a hands‑on engineer who combines systems integration experience with a strong understanding of controls. You’ll own integration and controller bring‑up for OCTANE’s pointing, acquisition, and tracking (PAT) systems, connecting modeled behavior to measured performance on real hardware. Working alongside our controls and DSP, firmware, optics, and photonics specialists, you’ll bring the subsystems together and work through the problems that emerge at their interfaces. You’ll see your work take shape in a functioning optical communications terminal.

What you’ll do

• Own hands‑on integration of sensing, actuation, and control software with optical and mechanical hardware. Bring custom and commercial components together into working systems.
• Bring control algorithms from simulation into operation on physical hardware, working with our controls and DSP engineers on the algorithms and our firmware team on embedded implementation.
• Characterize real system behavior and investigate differences from simulation. Use experimental evidence to refine models, calibration, and controllers and improve measured performance.
• Maintain MATLAB models and analysis tools and C++ integration and test software to connect subsystems, automate experiments, and evaluate system performance.
• Troubleshoot problems across hardware and software interfaces, establish repeatable tests, and demonstrate reliable closed‑loop operation as prototypes progress toward field deployment.
• Lead integration of commercial off‑the‑shelf and custom sensors, actuators, and mechanical subsystems into cohesive system architectures.

What we’re looking for

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of equivalent practical experience. Relevant industry and substantial research experience both count.
• Hands‑on experience integrating hardware and software into an electromechanical, robotic, or precision instrument system. You can work through unfamiliar interfaces and trace problems across disciplinary boundaries.
• Experience bringing a closed‑loop controller from simulation onto physical hardware. You’ve measured system behavior, investigated discrepancies, and used the results to refine the model and improve actual performance.
• Experience using MATLAB for modeling and analysis and C++ for hardware integration or control implementation. You’re comfortable moving between mathematical models, software, and lab measurements.
• An experimental mindset, technical ownership, and clear communication. You form testable hypotheses, ask good questions outside your specialty, and share findings that help the team solve problems together.
• U.S. Citizenship - Position works on government projects requiring US Citizenship.

Nice to have

• Experience developing experimentally validated plant models or digital twins, including system identification and parameter estimation.
• Practical experience applying observer‑based, adaptive, nonlinear, or robust control methods to physical systems.
• A background in robotics, precision engineering, optical communication, optical tracking, or other systems that combine sensing and actuation.
• Hardware‑in‑the‑loop testing, real‑time software, or experience interfacing with photonics and communications hardware.

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At BST we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Why BST

• Own the hands‑on work that turns precision hardware and control software into a functioning optical communications system.
• Collaborate with a small team whose work spans precision mechanisms, MEMS, optics, electronics, and software. Bring your expertise and build depth in neighboring disciplines.
• Take meaningful technical ownership in an engineer‑led company with competitive compensation, equity, and a sustainable approach to work.

Company Overview

At Bright, we build precision optical systems to guide data for a new era of communication. Our team combines precision engineering, optical design, and product development to commercialize the Lightfield Directing Array. Applications include laser communications, optical switching for data centers, lidar, and additive manufacturing.

Founded in 2020, Bright Silicon Technologies is building an enduring technology manufacturing company. You’ll contribute to the development, launch, and scaling of advanced optical products. We offer competitive salaries and equity incentives, and we value effective engineering alongside long‑term work/life balance.

Our benefits include:

• Equity Incentive Plan
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with other voluntary benefits
• 3% employer contribution to employee 401(k)
• Development and career growth opportunities
• Generous paid time off and paid company holidays