Optomechanical Engineer (Atmospheric Instrumentation)

TL;DR

Optomechanical Engineer (Atmospheric Instrumentation): Building and optimizing airborne cloud-particle imaging systems with an accent on optical paths and precision-mechanical architecture. Focus on designing rugged hardware for UAS integration, solving environmental stability challenges, and transitioning prototypes to production.

Location: On-site in El Segundo, CA

Company

hirify.global is pioneering a modern cloud-seeding system to increase precipitation and address severe-weather challenges using atmospheric science and UAS.

What you will do

• Design and build the illumination, imaging, and precision-mechanical architecture for airborne cloud-particle instruments.
• Integrate lasers, cameras, optics, and sensors into rugged enclosures resistant to vibration, temperature, and moisture.
• Perform optical layout, tolerance analysis, and stray-light analysis to ensure measurement quality.
• Build, align, and calibrate benchtop and flight prototypes personally.
• Develop calibration fixtures, acceptance tests, and repeatable assembly procedures.
• Transition prototypes into documented, low-volume production hardware.

Requirements

• Degree in optical/mechanical engineering, physics, aerospace engineering, or equivalent evidence of ability.
• Hands-on experience designing, assembling, and troubleshooting optical systems.
• Strong precision-mechanical design skills (CAD, GD&T, material selection).
• Ability to analyze imaging resolution, field of view, and measurement uncertainty.
• Experience designing hardware for thermal stability and vibration resistance.
• Comfort working in a lab/shop environment using hand tools and rapid prototyping.

Nice to have

• Experience with digital in-line holography, lidar, or aerosol instrumentation.
• Proficiency in optical-design software like OpticStudio or CODE V.
• Background in UAS-borne, space, or defense optical hardware.
• Familiarity with image-sensor characterization and high-rate data acquisition.

Culture & Benefits

• Significant stock options in an early-stage company.
• 401(k) with employer matching and full health coverage (medical, dental, vision).
• Unlimited PTO and paid parental leave for both parents.
• Relocation assistance provided.
• On-site perks including provided lunch and free EV charging at the HQ.