Mechanical Engineer II

About this position

Attalon is a leading technology partner to the global aerospace and defense industry, specializing in the physics of light and heat. With over 500 employees in the U.S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high‑energy directed laser systems to satellite optics and hypersonic thermal protection, Attalon equips the warfighter with the advantage of precision.

Ondax Monrovia (www.ondax.com) operates as an autonomous, commercial‑first unit of Attalon, specializing in the global manufacture and distribution of proprietary photonics. By utilizing its pioneering Volume Bragg Grating (VBG) technology and SureLock wavelength‑stabilized semiconductor lasers, Monrovia supplies high‑precision, cutting‑edge products to rapidly expanding fields such as Raman spectroscopy, bio‑instrumentation, datacom, scientific research, and high‑power industrial lasers.

We are looking for a highly motivated, driven and resourceful Mechanical Engineer to join our dynamic R&D and Manufacturing team in Monrovia. In this role, you will design and develop advanced automation tooling and robotic fixtures, support the creation and hands‑on integration of spectroscopy systems, and define production workflows for laser machining and pick‑and‑place operations.

Success in this position requires direct interaction with optical components and laser systems, so experience with opto‑mechanical design is a strong advantage. A solid working knowledge of basic electronics and physical I/O control interfaces is also important.

As part of a small, highly collaborative site, you will be relied upon to work in a fast‑paced environment where team members often take on diverse responsibilities. This role blends technical design with hands‑on build and implementation work, making a proactive, “roll up your sleeves” mindset essential. We value adaptability, problem solving, and a strong willingness to learn just as much as your core engineering expertise.

Responsibilities

Automation & Robotics: Design, prototype, and implement precision mechanical fixtures and tooling for robotic arms and automated manufacturing systems.

Opto‑Mechanics & Optics: Interface directly with optics and sensitive laser light paths; design precise opto‑mechanical mounts, positioning stages, and stable alignments.

Electronics & I/O Integration: Wire, test, and integrate electrical sensors, actuators, and basic input/output (I/O) control lines into automated fixtures and process tooling.

Spectroscopy & Laser Systems: Contribute directly to the mechanical design of wavelength‑stabilized lasers and spectroscopy systems, including hands‑on build, assembly, alignment, and testing.

Process Workflows: Develop, configure, and optimize mechanical components and workflows for laser dicing systems and automated pick‑and‑place micro‑assembly machinery.

SolidWorks CAD & PDM: Develop complete 3D models, fabrication drawings, and assemblies in SolidWorks, with structured management of BOMs (Bill of Materials) and PDM (Product Data Management) systems.

Vendor Interaction: Collaborate directly with local and external machine shops, fabrication vendors, and component suppliers to source and inspect parts.

Cross‑Functional Alignment: Actively participate in new product development programs, communicating progress and technical challenges to management and cross‑functional teams.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, or a closely related engineering discipline.

Experience: 2+ years of hands‑on professional experience in mechanical design and system development.

SolidWorks CAD: Proven proficiency in 3D product design with SolidWorks.

Electronics & I/O: Solid comfort level working with basic electronics, electrical wiring, and physical I/O (input/output) signals and hardware interfaces.

Hands‑on Aptitude: Proven experience with strong diagnostic mindset with physical assembly, alignment, troubleshooting, and testing of complex technical devices or electromechanical hardware.

Ownership & Initiative: Extremely self‑motivated, driven, and resourceful with a demonstrated ability to learn new technologies and systems quickly.

Preferred Qualifications

Opto‑Mechanics & Optics: Prior opto‑mechanical design and testing experience, with a solid understanding of how mechanical parts interact with lenses, lasers, and optical light paths.

Automation Design: Experience designing end effectors, custom tooling, robotic fixtures and positioning systems for manufacturing automation.

Advanced Machinery: Familiarity with high‑precision pick‑and‑place workflows, micro‑assembly, or automated die bonders.

Laser Processing: Experience with lasers, laser testing, laser processing workflows or laser cutting systems.

For California, the base pay range for this role is $74,000.00‑$126,500.00. This range is provided as a general guideline. When determining an offer, Attalon considers multiple factors, including job responsibilities, relevant experience, education and training, specialized skills, and current market conditions.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Attalon, Inc. is an equal‑opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Export Control Compliance

This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.

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