Senior Optical Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Company Description

Arista Networks is an industry leader in data-driven, client-to-cloud networking for large data center, campus and routing environments. What sets us apart is our relentless pursuit of innovation. We leverage the latest advancements in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and software-defined networking to provide our clients with a competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected world. Our solutions are designed to not only meet the current demands of the digital landscape but to also anticipate and adapt to future challenges.

At Arista we value the diversity of thought and perspectives that each employee brings to the table. We  believe that fostering an inclusive environment, where individuals from various backgrounds and experiences feel welcome, is essential for driving creativity and innovation.

Our commitment to excellence has earned us several prestigious awards, such as Best Engineering Team, Best Company for Diversity, Compensation, and Work-Life Balance. At Arista, we take pride in our track record of success and strive to maintain the highest standards of quality and performance in everything we do.

Job Description

Arista Networks is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Senior Optical Opto-Mechanical Engineer to lead the mechanical and optical design of next-generation optical transceivers, optical interconnect and optical engines, including 1.6T, 3.2T and beyond. This role combines deep mechanical and optical engineering expertise with a strong understanding of optical component design, alignment, and integration. You will be responsible for designing precision opto-mechanical structures, managing optical paths and coupling strategies, and ensuring manufacturability and reliability in high-volume production environments. You’ll work cross-functionally with optical, electrical, packaging, and manufacturing teams to deliver robust, scalable, and high-performance optical hardware platforms for cloud-scale networking.

• Lead the mechanical and optical design of high-speed optical transceivers,optical interconnect and optical engines (e.g., QSFP-DD, OSFP, co-packaged optics).
• Design and optimize opto-mechanical components including lens mounts, fiber alignment structures, ferrule interfaces, and mechanical alignment features.
• Perform optical system design, including beam path layout, lens selection, optical coupling, and tolerance analysis using tools like Zemax, LightTools, or CODE V.
• Define and validate alignment strategies (active and passive) to ensure efficient optical coupling and mechanical robustness.
• Work closely with optical and packaging engineers on fiber attach, epoxy bonding, lens placement, and connector integration.
• Develop detailed 3D CAD models and 2D mechanical drawings using industry- standard tools (SolidWorks, Creo), incorporating accurate GD&T and stack-up analysis.
• Ensure compliance with MSA standards (e.g., QSFP-DD, OSFP) and mechanical interface specifications for data center environments.
• Support DFX reviews (Design for Manufacturability, Assembly, Testing, and Reliability) and engage with CMs to optimize for high-volume production.
• Participate in failure analysis and continuous improvement activities for mechanical and optical alignment issues.
• Define tooling, fixtures, and assembly instructions for precise optical and mechanical builds in collaboration with global vendors and suppliers.

Qualifications

• B.S. or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in opto-mechanical or optical module design for transceivers, photonics engines, or related hardware.
• Strong mechanical design skills, including precision fit, stack-up control, material selection, and tolerance analysis.
• Demonstrated experience in optical design and modeling, including beam propagation, lens system design, and coupling efficiency optimization.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks, Creo) and mechanical drawing standards (GD&T, ASME Y14.5).
• Experience with optical connectors (e.g., MPO, LC), fiber alignment, lens mounts, and epoxy-based bonding processes.
• Familiarity with MSA transceiver mechanical standards (QSFP, OSFP) and related design constraints.
• Ability to work closely with cross-functional teams in design, test, and manufacturing.
• Excellent documentation, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Opto-Mechanical Engineering or Optical/Mechanical Engineering with focus on photonics packaging.
• Experience with co-packaged optics, optical chiplets, or free-space optical engine design.
• Hands-on knowledge of optical simulation tools (Zemax, LightTools, CODE V, FRED).
• Experience in automated optical alignment, fiber attach, and jig/fixture design for manufacturing.
• Familiarity with mechanical reliability testing (shock, vibration, thermal cycling).
• Experience working with contract manufacturers, mechanical suppliers, and optical component vendors.  

Compensation Information:

The new hire base pay for this role has a pay range of $150,000 to $230,000. Arista offers different pay ranges based on work location, so that we can offer consistent and competitive pay appropriate to the market. The actual base pay offered will be based on a wide range of factors, including skills, qualifications, relevant experience, and work location. The pay range provided reflects base pay only and in addition certain roles may also be eligible for discretionary Arista bonuses and equity. Employees in Sales roles are eligible to participate in Arista’s Sales Incentive Plan, which pays commissions calculated as a percentage of eligible sales. US-based employees are also entitled to benefits including medical, dental, vision, wellbeing, tax savings and income protection. The recruiting team can share more details during the hiring process specific to the role and location.
.

#Li-Gr1

Additional Information

Arista Networks is an equal opportunity employer.  Arista makes all hiring and employment-related decisions in a non-discriminatory manner without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or any other factor determined to be unlawful under applicable federal, state, or law law.  All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.