Job Overview

Digital Data Networks (DDN) Business Unit | TE Connectivity 

The Opportunity: Join TE Connectivity's innovative Passive Optics organization as a Senior Mechanical Engineer and help design the next generation of precision optical connector systems powering AI and hyperscale computing infrastructure. You'll solve complex mechanical engineering challenges in sub-micron precision design, working with advanced materials to create products that enable the world's most demanding optical interconnect applications. 

Please note: operations are currently based at a temporary site in Webster, NY. The team will transition to a permanent Rochester location (near RIT) upon completion.

Why This Role Matters: 
As AI workloads demand unprecedented reliability and performance, precision mechanical design of optical connectors has become mission-critical. You'll be at the forefront of solving complex mechanical challenges involving metals, plastics, and innovative latching mechanisms that directly enable the optical revolution while advancing TE's leadership in high-performance connectivity solutions.

Job Requirements

Precision Mechanical Design & Development  

• Electro-mechanical design: Design high-precision alignment fixtures, tooling, and automation systems to support optical component placement, optical fiber alignment, and laser welding operations.  

Automation systems design: Design/test/validate custom motion control systems, robotics, vision systems, and pneumatic assemblies 

Product Development & Manufacturing  

• Prototyping: Lead rapid prototyping efforts from concept through production-ready mechanical designs using advanced manufacturing techniques  

• Testing & Characterization: Develop comprehensive mechanical test methodologies for connector performance, durability, and manufacturing quality control  

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with optical engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure design for manufacturability (DFM) and optical performance 

• Documentation: Develop 2D/3D CAD files, work instructions, SOPs, best-practices, workflow diagrams, and all other support documentation for designs, test protocols in support of commissioning new systems and hardware 

What your background should look like

Education: BS or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field  

• Experience: 5-8 years in precision mechanical design, preferably with optics or photonic experience (but not required) 

• Materials Expertise: Hands-on experience with metals and engineering plastics in precision applications  

• Design Tools: Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, NX, Creo). Finite element analysis knowledge nice-to-have, but not required) 

Core Technical Competencies  

• Precision Engineering: Deep understanding and appreciation in designing hardware and subsystems for sub-micron tolerancing, and precision manufacturing processes  

• Materials Science: Understanding of material properties, thermal expansion, creep, and long-term stability of metals and polymers  

• Testing & Validation: Proficiency with mechanical test equipment, load testing, and statistical quality control methods 

Professional Skills  

• Problem Solving: Creative approach to complex mechanical design challenges with systematic engineering methodology  

• Communication: Ability to present technical concepts to cross-functional teams and document detailed mechanical specifications  

• Project Management: Experience managing multiple development projects with competing priorities and tight delivery timelines  

• Continuous Learning: Commitment to staying current with emerging precision manufacturing technologies and connector innovations 

Competencies