Mechanical Design Engineer

🛠️ Mechanical Design Engineer

📍 Location: Alkmaar, The Netherlands
🌐 Hybrid: 3 days in the office, 2 days from home

Join the pioneers of photonic sensing at PhotonFirst!

PhotonFirst is transforming how industries capture and use data with cutting-edge fiber optic sensing technology. Our innovations power advanced applications across aerospace, automotive, energy, and more, driven by precision, performance, and a deep passion for photonics.

About the Role

As a Mechanical Design Engineer at PhotonFirst, you’ll play a key role in turning complex system needs into smart, cost-effective hardware solutions. You’ll collaborate with a multidisciplinary R&D and engineering team to design and develop the mechanical aspects of our unique photonic measurement systems and chip packages. From early concept through sustained engineering, your work will be central to delivering robust, scalable, and high-performance products.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead the mechanical design of advanced photonic sensing systems and chip packaging solutions.
• Translate high-level system requirements into robust, manufacturable hardware.
• Apply Design for Manufacturing (DfM) principles and work with standardized parts and suppliers to ensure efficient production.
• Contribute to the documentation and development of the product dossier.
• Validate designs in collaboration with assemblers and production partners.
• Provide sustained engineering support to improve and maintain mature products.

You

You’re a creative problem-solver who enjoys transforming abstract ideas into physical, functional designs. You work well in fast-paced environments and are always looking for smarter, better ways to get things done.

You bring:

• A degree in Applied Sciences (HBO) in Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering.
• At least 5 years of relevant work experience, including 2+ years in product development in a technical setting.
• Strong skills in 3D product design (preferably SolidWorks).
• A good understanding of development processes, documentation, and revision control.
• Affinity with small-scale, deep-tech product design.
• A hands-on mindset, eagerness to solve problems, and practical approach to engineering.
• Residence in the Netherlands and the ability to work from our office in Alkmaar (hybrid).

✨ Why PhotonFirst?

• Join a fast-growing innovator at the forefront of photonic sensing technology.
• Collaborate with highly skilled, passionate colleagues in a cutting-edge environment.
• Contribute to exciting, state-of-the-art projects for world-leading customers.
• Enjoy a dynamic role with broad responsibilities and constant learning opportunities.

🎁 What We Offer:

• A key role in a high-tech scale-up environment with real impact.
• Competitive salary and travel allowance.
• 27 vacation days (based on full-time), plus the option to purchase 10 more.
• Excellent pension scheme (Zwitserleven).
• €40 net monthly phone allowance.
• Monthly contribution toward sports and wellness.