Z-axis alignment of an optoelectronic component using a composite adhesive

An optoelectronic device that employs a composite adhesive to properly position optical components within the device is disclosed. In one embodiment, an optical subassembly is disclosed, comprising a package housing, an optical component, and a composite adhesive that at least indirectly maintains the optical component in a predetermined position on a mounting surface within the package housing. The composite adhesive includes an adhesive substance, and a plurality of spacing elements intermixed in the adhesive substance, wherein the spacing elements at least indirectly space the optical component from a designated surface of the package housing such that the component is positioned in the predetermined position.