Opto-Mechanical Engineer - Technical Project Manager

The work place is at the Laboratory of Astrophysics (LASTRO), on EPFL campus in Lausanne, within the Astrobots Group a highly innovative multi-disciplinary and stimulating team.

The primary duties and responsibilities are to develop the opto-mechanical aspects of robotic positioners used in optical/near-infrared ground-based telescopes, as well as to manage major astronomical instruments projects. EPFL is involved in the design, procurement, assembly and testing of systems including fiber positioning units, mirror/lens systems or a combination of both. In particular, EPFL Astrobots Group is involved in future projects using miniaturized robots for massive multi-fibers spectroscopy Stage-5 projects (for example MUST , Spec-S5 , WST ), to the novel focal plane system for the MOSAIC instrument for the ELT , and to Folding Mirrors of BlueMUSE for the VLT .

The candidate will mainly be involved in optical alignment (free-space) and testing of optical robotic positioners (fiber-coupled and free-space).

The principal roles of the Opto-Mechanical Engineer are:

• Develop the opto-mechanical assemblies for the optical testing of robotic positioners for astronomy (hardware and software);

• Measure, characterize and calibrate the optical performance of the micro-robots on the test benches (for example optical fibers and mirrors characterization);

• Collaborate with industrial and academic partners (10% travel).

The ideal candidate should hold an HES or EPF degree in Optical Engineering with already a few years of experience or equivalent.

• Hands-on experience on optical components (ex. optical fibers, mirrors);

• Good knowledge of optical software (ex. Zemax);

• Good knowledge of Python and Matlab;

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills;

• Proven creative and open-minded to seek out solutions and alternatives;

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to details;

• Good to have: Knowledge of project management softwares (ex. MS Project);

• Good verbal and written English communication skills.

• A multicultural and high-quality academic environment;

• A good team spirit in a dynamic research group;

• Excellent working conditions;

• Involvement in unique projects.

Contract Start Date : 01.04.2026

Activity Rate : 100,00

Contract Type: CDD

Duration: 1 year (renewable)

Reference: 2060