Senior R&D Engineer, Mechatronics
Summary Of The Role
The Senior Mechatronics Test & Development Engineer at Nordson Test & Inspection is responsible for establishing and executing the verification, validation, and calibration strategy for one optical metrology product line. This role involves contributing hands-on to prototype builds, integration, and design maturation.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Test & Calibration Ownership: Define the verification plan and acceptance criteria for builds and pilot runs; maintain requirements-to-test traceability.
Design and Implement Calibration Methods: Build, maintain, and document automated test scripts and data pipelines; ensure configuration control and code quality standards.
Plan and Execute Evaluations: Plan and execute environmental, stability, and reliability evaluations; synthesize findings into design recommendations.
Create Controlled Procedures: Create and maintain controlled procedures, work instructions, and training for test and calibration activities.
Mechatronics Development Support
Design and Release Test Fixtures: Design and release test fixtures and jigs (SolidWorks/Creo), including tolerance stack-ups and GD&T suitable for fabrication.
Support Prototype Bring-Up: Support prototype bring-up and integration (motion control, sensors, electrical harnessing, mechanical alignment, optical alignment as applicable).
Structured Experiments: Conduct structured experiments to isolate contributors to measurement error and drive corrective actions.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Technical Owner: Serve as technical owner for test/calibration for the assigned product line; act as the counterpart to the Systems Engineer.
Team Alignment: Partner with Opto-Mechanical, Electrical, Software, and Algorithm teams to resolve integration issues and close validation gaps.
Method Alignment: Align R&D test methods with factory test requirements; support DFM/DFT/DFC and pilot builds.
Status Reporting: Provide concise status reporting (risk register, decision logs) to stakeholders and leadership.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Optical Engineering, or related discipline; Master’s preferred.
7+ years of experience developing mechatronic systems from prototype through pilot/transfer; experience in optical systems/metrology strongly preferred.
Demonstrated proficiency in test automation and data analysis using Python and/or Matlab, LabView; familiarity with C# for instrument control is a plus.
Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks or Creo) with the ability to release build-ready drawings (GD&T, tolerance stacks).
Practical experience with motion stages, precision mechanics, sensors, DAQ, and lab instrumentation.
Working knowledge of calibration design, error budgets, statistics, and Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA/GR&R).
Preferred Qualifications
Optics/optomechanics (imaging, interferometry, alignment, light fundamentals).
Exposure to manufacturing transfer and factory test development.
Experience with reliability or environmental testing (thermal, vibration, shock), and regulatory compliance is a plus.
Key Competencies
Systems Thinking: Converts requirements and risks into measurable test criteria and coverage.
Tech Rigor: Balances rapid prototyping with disciplined productization.
Communication: Produces clear documentation and executive-level summaries.
Leadership & Mentorship: Coaches junior engineers.
Compensation
Base Salary for this position is: $105,000-$126,000 annually, and bonus target is 3_%; shift premium may be available depending on shift associated with the specific job opportunity.
Benefits
Medical, Rx, Vision, Dental, and Health Savings Account (HSA)
Retirement and Security benefits including 401k and Life Insurance
Paid Time Off and paid Holidays
16 hours paid time each calendar year to perform volunteer services for Nordson-sponsored events
Matching Gifts Program
About Nordson Test & Inspection
Nordson Test & Inspection manufactures world-class metrology equipment and inspection systems to ensure electronic products are built to meet the highest standards. We use X-ray inspection, acoustic imaging, and optical inspection technologies to create testing systems that enable the identification of even the smallest defects at high resolution. By joining our team today, you will help us bring innovative ideas to life. Nordson Test & Inspection is a global team that works to create machines and systems that improve the manufacturing process for a wide range of industries, including electronics, aerospace, automotive, energy, lighting, and medical. We offer a supportive culture in a growing and dynamic work environment. Whether you're just beginning your career or you're a seasoned professional, there's a place for you to belong at Nordson Test & Inspection. We offer hourly and salary positions in production, maintenance, customer service, quality, engineering, and more. We actively invest in our teams to help you build your skillsets and advance your career.