Laser Engineer

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Senior Laser Systems Engineer to architect, develop, and validate beam‑delivery and targeting subsystems for our next‑generation defense laser platforms. You will lead end‑to‑end beam‑train design, automated aiming, and materials‑testing efforts across pulsed and CW regimes, progressing from lab prototype to field‑deployed hardware.

Key Responsibilities

1. Beam‑Train Architecture & Assembly: Design and assemble the end‑to‑end optical path—including coatings, mirrors, fiber/optics interfaces, and alignment fixtures—to meet power and beam‑quality specifications.
2. Automated Aiming & Targeting: Develop and integrate laser‑aiming subsystems, combining optomechanics and control‑system hooks for precision tracking and dwell control.
3. Damage‑Threshold Testing: Plan and execute material ablation experiments, characterize damage thresholds, and iterate on optical and mechanical designs to optimize performance and durability.
4. Trade Studies: Conduct comparative analyses of various laser operation, leading wavelength‑selection campaigns considering efficacy, safety, and supply‑chain constraints.
5. Functional Collaboration: Partner with controls, mechanical, and sensor teams to synchronize beam outputs with targeting data and ensure system‑level integration.
6. Prototype Iteration & Field Trials: Drive rapid bench‑prototype builds through range‑testing cycles (dry‑runs, live engagements), capturing performance data to refine optical and mechanical designs.
7. Documentation & Reporting: Produce comprehensive technical reports, optical alignment procedures, and test‑plan documentation; present findings to stakeholders and update design specifications accordingly.

Qualifications

• 4–7 years of experience in high‑power or directed‑energy laser development, optical‑train engineering, or related fields.
• Expertise in optical design software (Zemax, Code V) and CAD tools (SolidWorks, Creo).
• Hands-on experience with high‑power coatings, mirror mounts, and fiber‑optic interfaces.
• Proven track record of ablation testing and damage‑threshold characterization.
• Familiarity with pulsed and CW laser architectures, wavelength trade‑offs, and safety standards.
• BS/MS in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Strong analytical mindset, collaborative communication, and problem‑solving skills under experimental constraints.

Nice‑to‑Haves

• Field‑deployed laser systems experience (DoD or industrial optics).
• Background in optical fiber handling and splice qualification.
• Experience with environmental qualification testing (vibration, thermal shock).
• Familiarity with laser safety (ANSI Z136) and ITAR regulations.

Application Instructions

Send all applications with resume, evidence of excellent previous work, portfolio, GitHub/website, and a description of the most impressive thing you've done to