System Mechanical Design Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a motivated, dedicated, and hands-on mechanical design engineer to help develop chassis and rack platforms for the next-generation artificial intelligence server alongside a team of world-class scientists and engineers. As a Mechanical Engineer at Lightmatter, you will sit at the critical intersection of silicon photonics, advanced 3D packaging, and extreme-density thermal management. You won't just be tweaking existing designs; you will be the practical execution engine transforming complex electro-optical concepts into scalable, manufacturable hardware. While this role focuses on flawless technical execution rather than top-level project architecture, your hands-on impact will be immense. You will navigate the transition from initial CAD and prototype builds to leading external Contract Manufacturers (CMs). If you are a rigorous, detail-oriented engineer eager to solve complex thermal-mechanical packaging puzzles, orchestrate supply chains, and build the physical backbone of next-generation AI infrastructure, we want you on our team.

Responsibilities

• Design, test, analyze, integrate, qualify and document hardware of moderate to high complexity, in a dynamic startup environment.
• Ensure proper packaging of optical, electrical and related components for optimal thermal performance.
• Responsible for mechanical design from generating CAD and drawings, to BOM generation and crafting work instructions.
• Fully understand project requirements and timelines while identifying gaps and drive to closure with the stakeholders.
• Initiate and drive design reviews while managing the resulting feedback and change requests.
• Collaborate in root-cause-analysis and technical investigations with cross-functional teams.
• Drive hands-on in-house build and integration activities, scaling from initial prototype fabrication to leading external CMs for high-volume production.
• Manage outside fabricators to ensure correct build-to-print and quality workmanship.
• Work with technical program managers to define a detailed timeline.
• Actively mitigate and manage lead-time issues with the supply chain team.
• Collaborate with relevant cross-functional engineering teams to understand dependencies.
• Provide assistance to creating technical road-maps, establishing best practices, and determining product feasibility.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related fields.
• 5+ years of experience in system mechanical design with multiple successful product releases.
• Proficient in a 3D CAD solid modeling software package such as SolidWorks.
• Familiar with both thermal and structural testing and analysis.
• Experience with state-of-the-art mechanical engineering design and analysis tools (ANSYS preferred).
• Possess a strong understanding in the application of heat transfer principles, strength of materials, materials selection, design for vibration environments and the ability to apply those principles to unique mechanical design challenges.
• Industry experience in electronics packaging.
• Strong communication and adaptive in execution.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Familiar with 3D printing equipment and processes.
• Proficient with FEA software package (ANSYS, SolidWorks).
• Proficient with thermal simulation and analysis software package (IcePak, Flotherm).

Pay

The base salary range for this role is $139,000 USD - $190,000 USD. Total compensation goes beyond base salary, it also includes a new hire equity grant, annual performance-based equity, and other rewards that recognize your impact and contribution.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision).
• Retirement Savings Matching Program.
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D).
• Generous Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays).
• Paid Family Leave.
• Short Term & Long Term Disability.
• Training & Development.
• Commuter Benefits.
• Flexible, hybrid workplace model.
• Equity grants (applicable to full-time employees).

Benefits eligibility may vary depending on your employment status and location.