TE Connectivity is hiring a Product Development Engineer II for its Passive Optics organization. In this role, you will design the next generation of precision optical connector systems for AI and hyperscale computing infrastructure, solving complex mechanical engineering challenges involving sub-micron precision and advanced materials.
What You'll Do
- Develop innovative fiber optic connectors featuring ganged blind mate ferrule configurations for high-density box-to-box attachment and cable assemblies.
- Design sophisticated backplane mechanical float systems enabling self-alignment of ganged ferrule arrays during blind mating operations.
- Engineer precision alignment mechanisms for multi-fiber ferrule systems, including guide pin configurations and compliance structures.
- Evaluate and specify advanced metals and engineering plastics for precision optical connector applications.
- Design innovative compliant mechanisms for connector alignment, engagement, and stress relief while maintaining optical precision.
- Design and execute comprehensive test protocols for static and dynamic loading, fatigue resistance, and environmental stress validation.
- Develop innovative latching and retention systems optimized for connector reliability and user experience.
- Engineer strain relief solutions that protect fiber optics under mechanical stress while maintaining alignment precision.
- Perform static and dynamic stress analysis on connector assemblies, including finite element modeling of complex loading scenarios.
- Design connector systems for automated assembly processes while maintaining sub-micron alignment tolerances.
- Lead rapid prototyping efforts from concept through production-ready mechanical designs.
- Develop comprehensive mechanical test methodologies for connector performance, durability, and quality control.
- Work closely with optical engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure design for manufacturability and optical performance.
What We're Looking For
- BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field.
- 2-5 years in precision mechanical design, preferably in connector or optical systems.
- Hands-on experience with metals and engineering plastics in precision applications.
- Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, NX, Creo) and finite element analysis tools.
- Deep understanding of sub-micron tolerancing, statistical tolerance analysis, and precision manufacturing processes.
- Experience with compliant structures, spring mechanisms, and dynamic loading analysis of small-scale mechanical systems.
- Understanding of material properties, thermal expansion, creep, and long-term stability of metals and polymers.
- Proficiency with mechanical test equipment, load testing, and statistical quality control methods.
- Experience with latching mechanisms, strain relief systems, and connector assembly processes.
- Expertise in stress analysis, fatigue life prediction, and mechanical reliability engineering.
- Knowledge of injection molding, precision machining, and assembly automation for small-scale components.
- Understanding of tolerance control, process capability studies, and Design for Six Sigma methodologies.
- Creative approach to complex mechanical design challenges with systematic engineering methodology.
- Ability to present technical concepts to cross-functional teams and document detailed mechanical specifications.
- Experience managing multiple development projects with competing priorities and tight delivery timelines.
- Commitment to staying current with emerging precision manufacturing technologies and connector innovations.
Nice to Have
- MS in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.
- Background in optical connectors, precision instruments, or telecommunications hardware.
- Familiarity with connector industry standards (IEC, Telcordia) and environmental testing protocols.
- Experience with ANSYS, COMSOL, or other advanced FEA/simulation software.
- Track record of mechanical design innovation and intellectual property development.
Technical Stack
- SolidWorks, NX, Creo
- Finite Element Analysis Tools
- ANSYS, COMSOL
Team & Environment
You will join the Passive Optics organization within the Digital Data Networks (DDN) Business Unit, collaborating closely with optical engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams.
Benefits & Compensation
- Compensation: $89,600–$134,400
- Health insurance
- 401(k)
- Disability insurance
- Life insurance
- Employee stock purchase plan
- Paid time off
- Voluntary benefits
TE Connectivity is an EOE, Including Disability/Vets.
