Role Summary
Microsoft Research Cambridge is looking for a senior hands-on Mechanical Engineer to design, build, test, and refine precision mechanical systems used in advanced photonics and fibre-optic research. This is not a purely design-focused role. The ideal candidate will spend significant time designing hardware, building prototypes, troubleshooting in the lab, and working directly with researchers to solve complex optical engineering challenges. The environment is fast-moving and research-driven, so candidates must be comfortable with ambiguity, rapid iteration, and changing priorities.
Key Responsibilities
- Design precision mechanical and opto-mechanical systems for optical experiments
- Create detailed 3D CAD models and manufacturing drawings
- Build prototypes using 3D printing, machining, Laser cutting, and workshop tools
- Assemble and align high-precision mechanical systems
- Support fibre handling, positioning, and alignment hardware development
- Conduct testing, debugging, and performance validation
- Apply DFMA principles to improve manufacturability and assembly efficiency
- Select suitable materials based on thermal, mechanical, and environmental requirements
- Work closely with optics researchers to translate experimental needs into practical hardware
- Manage multiple prototype developments simultaneously
Must-Have Skills (Non-Negotiable)
Core Engineering
Precision Mechanical Design
High accuracy mechanisms
Tight tolerance assemblies
Sub-micron alignment and positioning systems preferred
CAD Design
Strong SolidWorks experience (preferred)
Autodesk Inventor acceptable
Creation of manufacturing drawings
Hands-On Engineering
Prototype assembly
Workshop/lab work
Hardware debugging
Manufacturing Knowledge
Machining
Rapid prototyping
Fabrication processes
Supplier engagement
DFMA
Design for Manufacture & Assembly
Ability to simplify designs for manufacturing and assembly
Material Selection
Metals, polymers, composites
Thermal and mechanical considerations
Experience Building Real Hardware
Candidates must have personally built and tested hardware
Not only simulation/design work
Nice-to-Have Skills
Optics/Photonics
Opto-mechanical engineering
Optical alignment systems
Free-space optics
Fibre optics
Waveguides
Manufacturing
CNC programming
Multi-axis machining
CAM software
Simulation
ANSYS
FEA analysis
Thermal analysis
Research Environment Experience
University research labs
R&D organizations
Advanced technology development teams
Experience Level Guidance
- Ideal
- 8+ years mechanical engineering experience