Staff Mechanical Engineer

Job Summary & Responsibilities

We are seeking a highly skilled Opto-Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, and support advanced optical-mechanical systems used in next-generation semiconductor metrology equipment. This role requires deep expertise in precision mechanics, optical alignment, and environmental stability for high-accuracy measurement systems operating at sub-micron or nanometer scales. The ideal candidate will collaborate cross-functionally with optical, electrical, and process engineers to deliver robust, high-performance systems supporting semiconductor inspection and metrology applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Design precision opto-mechanical assemblies including lens mounts, mirror systems, stages, and structural components.
• Develop mechanical architectures that ensure optical alignment stability under thermal, vibration, and environmental variations.
• Perform tolerance analysis for optical systems, including sensitivity studies and error budgets.
• Collaborate with optical engineers to integrate lasers, detectors, imaging systems, and illumination paths.
• Support alignment strategies and develop fixturing and tooling for assembly and calibration.
• Ensure mechanical designs meet optical performance requirements such as wavefront error, distortion, and stability.
• Conduct FEA (thermal, structural, modal) to evaluate deformation, drift, and vibration effects on optical performance.
• Perform thermal management design to minimize drift and ensure repeatability in metrology measurements.
• Analyze and mitigate sources of noise, including mechanical vibration and thermal expansion.
• Build and test prototypes; troubleshoot alignment and performance issues.
• Develop test procedures and validation methods for optical-mechanical subsystems.
• Work closely with manufacturing to transition designs from prototype to production.
• Partner with manufacturing, supply chain, and quality teams to ensure DFM/DFA compliance.
• Support supplier selection and evaluate custom optical and precision mechanical components.
• Participate in system-level design reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in opto-mechanical design, preferably in semiconductor, photonics, or precision instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of optical systems, including imaging, laser systems, interferometry, or illumination design.
• Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, NX).
• Experience with FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL) for thermal and structural analysis.
• Knowledge of precision manufacturing methods (CNC machining, EDM, additive, etc.).
• Familiarity with GD&T and tolerance stack-ups.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with semiconductor metrology or inspection equipment (e.g., scatterometry, CD-SEM, overlay metrology).
• Understanding of vibration isolation, air-bearing stages, and ultra-stable structures.
• Experience integrating optical components such as lenses, mirrors, beam splitters, and fiber systems.
• Knowledge of cleanroom standards and contamination control.
• Experience with alignment tools such as interferometers, autocollimators, and optical benches.

Key Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking skills.
• Attention to detail with a focus on precision and accuracy.
• Able to work in multidisciplinary teams.
• Effective communication and documentation skills.
• Hands-on mindset with a balance of theoretical and practical expertise.

Why Join Onto Innovation?

At Onto Innovation, we believe your work should matter—and so should your well-being. That’s why we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family. From health, dental, and vision coverage to life and disability insurance, PTO, and a 401(k) with employer match, we’ve got you covered. You’ll also enjoy access to our Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), wellness initiatives, and cutting-edge tools—all within a collaborative, inclusive culture where your contributions are valued and recognized.

Compensation & Growth

Base Salary Range: $115,200.00 - $172,800.00, offered in good faith and based on experience, location, and qualifications. Additional Rewards: Annual bonus opportunities and potential long-term incentives tied to both company and individual success.