Camera Optomechanical Engineer

Department: Engineering

Location: Austin, TX

Employment Type: FullTime

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Camera Optomechanical Engineer to lead the design, integration, and qualification of imaging systems aboard our Autonomous Service Vessels. This role bridges optics, mechanics, and environmental constraints by developing ruggedized camera enclosures, mounting systems, and sensor integration strategies that perform in harsh maritime conditions. You will collaborate with hardware, perception, and autonomy engineer teams to ensure our vision systems are robust, reliable, and high-performing at sea. 

Responsibilities

• Designs and develop optomechanical assemblies for cameras and imaging sensors, including lens mounts, enclosures, gimbals, and thermal control elements 

• Collaborates with hardware, perception, and autonomy engineers to define mechanical and optical requirements for camera systems, including field of view, lensing, placement, and alignment 

• Performs detailed tolerance analysis to ensure structural integrity of components in vibration and shock-prone marine environments 

• Selects and integrates commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) and custom components to meet SWaP (size, weight, and power) constraints 

• Develops test plans and leads environmental and performance validation (e.g., IP rating, vibration testing, temperature cycling) 

• Supports rapid prototyping and iterative development, including 3D printing, machining, and on-water testing 

• Maintains detailed documentation of designs, analysis, and revisions in support of product lifecycle and compliance needs 

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or greater in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field 

• 2+ years of experience designing optomechanical systems or camera integration in rugged environments 

• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo) and mechanical analysis tools (FEA, thermal modeling) 

• Proficiency in producing detailed engineering drawings for prototyping and manufacturing

• Proficiency with optical principles, including alignment, lens selection, MTF, and FOV constraints 

• Experience with environmental sealing (IP67+), thermal management, and vibration isolation 

• Familiarity with camera sensor technologies (visible, IR, multispectral) and their mechanical considerations 

• Experience working on autonomous systems or robotics platforms (ground, air, or maritime) is preferred 

• Background in defense, aerospace, or other regulated hardware environments is preferred 

• Experience with optical coatings, anti-reflective treatments, or lens fogging mitigation is preferred 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with maritime autonomy challenges such as dynamic environments, variable lighting, and low-contrast targets. 

• Proven success developing, integrating, and validating optical & sensor systems on maritime or aerospace platforms

• Experience with design and testing for shock and vibration environments

• Prior experience working on DoD programs or unmanned maritime systems. 

• A professional engineering license or similar professional certification 

• ASME Y14.5 certification

Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer

• Occasional standing and walking within the office

• Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment

• Visual acuity to read screens, documents, and reports

• Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies

• Lifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages)

Benefits

• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services

• Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents

• Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care

• Saronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependents

• Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays

• Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents

• Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses

• Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan

• Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success

• Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage

• Pet Insurance: Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helpline

• Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office

Saronic CCPA Notice for Candidates and California Employees

If this role is based in the United States, it requires access to export-controlled information or items that require “U.S. Person” status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a “U.S. Person”: (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.