An alignment device and method for delivering a light beam to an optical application, such as an optical trap having a pair of lenses with overlapping focal regions for trapping a particle therein. The alignment device includes a light source for generating a beam of light, a support member, an optical fiber, a collimating lens, and actuators. The optical fiber includes an input end for receiving the beam of light, and a generally rigid portion extending from the support member and terminating in a delivery end for emitting the beam of light. The collimating lens collimates the emitted beam of light. The actuators exert forces on the generally rigid portion such that it pivots about a pivot point of the optical fiber at the support member. The collimated beam of light pivots about an optical pivot point as the optical fiber pivots about the pivot point.