Mechanical Engineer

Title

Mechanical Engineer

Department

Manufacturing Engineering

Reports to

Director of Production Engineering

SEE YOUR CAREER THROUGH A NEW LENS WITH RPO!

RPO is a global leader in precision optics, optical components, and optical assemblies. We specialize in a full spectrum of products & services including – Design and Engineering, Systems Integration, Lens Assembly, Visible and Infrared Components, Glass and Plastic Molded Aspheres, and Thin Film Coating. As one of the fastest growing companies in Rochester, RPO offers exciting career paths and work on market-leading programs. See below one of many career opportunities to join to RPO team!

Job Summary:

We are looking for a talented Mechanical Engineer to lead the mechanical design, production fixturing, and modeling efforts that support both current and next-generation precision optics products across defense and commercial sectors. This role plays a critical part in developing CAD models and detailed drawings for optical and mechanical components, driving manufacturing excellence through innovative tooling and process optimization. The ideal candidate will bring a strong understanding of optics manufacturing practices, engineering standards such as ISO 9001 and ASME Y14.5, and the ability to create and manage complex Bills of Materials (BOMs). Daily responsibilities include reviewing technical drawings, integrating designs into our ERP system, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless execution from concept to production. This is a high-impact opportunity to shape the future of precision optics through engineering innovation and operational precision

You will:

• Develop high-precision CAD models and detailed engineering drawings of optical and mechanical systems using SolidWorks.
• Apply expert-level understanding of GD&T principles to ensure dimensional accuracy and manufacturability.
• Design and assemble production fixtures, custom tools, and specialized equipment to support advanced manufacturing processes.
• Communicate engineering results effectively to both technical teams and non-technical stakeholders, including senior management.
• Operate independently with minimal supervision, demonstrating initiative and adherence to established procedures.
• Leverage hands-on experience in tool design and fabrication techniques to drive innovation and efficiency.
• Manage project budgets, create detailed plans, and oversee timelines to ensure successful delivery of engineering solutions.

You Have:

• Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering required; bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field strongly preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience of hands-on mechanical engineering experience in a high-precision manufacturing environment, ideally within optics or advanced tooling.
• Demonstrated expertise in CAD software (SolidWorks preferred), with a portfolio of high-quality models and production-ready drawings.
• Proven ability to read, interpret, and analyze complex technical documents, engineering drawings, and specifications with precision and clarity.
• Proficiency in applying advanced mathematical and engineering principles to solve real-world manufacturing challenges.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to present technical concepts effectively to cross-functional teams and non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience working within ERP systems and managing engineering documentation and BOMs.
• Self-motivated and capable of working independently while adhering to established procedures and quality standards.

You Are:

• Results-Oriented: Motivated, hard-working and ready to level-up;
• Curious: You never stop learning and have an insatiable desire to gain new skills and knowledge;
• Process Oriented: Well organized, demonstrating attention to detail;
• Analytical: Possess a “If there’s a problem, I’ll find a solution” attitude;
• Accountable: Demanding the highest quality from yourself and team members;
• Detail-Oriented: Have excellent time management and organizational skills;
• A Team Player: Reliable, collaborative, flexible with a positive ‘get things done’ attitude;
• A U.S. Person: Compliant with ITAR, EAR and other laws and regulations as defined: “U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents ("Green Card" holders), persons granted refugee status or asylum status in the United States, or temporary residents granted amnesty.”

You Will Enjoy:

• Growth: The opportunity to learn and advance your career;
• Wealth: Competitive compensation package linked to your experience and performance, a 401(k) with company match;
• Wellness: Health, dental, vision & life insurance;
• Balance: 11 paid holidays, generous vacation and sick-time.

Work Requirements & Physical Demands:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand: use hands to fingers, handle or feel: and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch: and talk and hear.
• The job may involve prolong periods of sitting/standing.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. May involve prolonged periods of magnified inspection (eye strain)
• Requires good hand-eye coordination, arm, hand and finger dexterity, including ability to grasp.
• The employee is frequently required to use the computer.
• Professional office environment with routine use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, copiers, filing cabinets and fax machine; noise level typical of a standard office environment

• Prolonged sitting, computer and telephone use, as well as standing, filing, bending, reaching and lifting and carrying up to 15 pounds
• Exposure to manufacturing plant floor requiring the use of personal protective equipment (ear plugs, safety glasses, etc.)
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Disclaimer:

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Rochester Precision Optics is committed to leveraging the talent of a diverse workforce to create great opportunities for our business and our people.

EOE/AA/Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States, and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.