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ClearanceJobs

Optical Design Engineer - Laser

ClearanceJobs, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, United States, 37830

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This range is provided by ClearanceJobs. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range $150,000.00/yr - $180,000.00/yr

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We are currently seeking an Optical Design Engineer located in Oak Ridge, TN.

Relocation is available

The ability to get a Clearance is required

We are a USA-based developer of patented advanced laser technology that utilizes infrared wavelengths to selectively excite molecules of desired isotopes for separation. Our Laser Isotope Separation Technology has numerous applications, making us the only USA-origin and patented laser uranium enrichment company. Our technology offers significant advantages over traditional methods, including gas diffusion and centrifuges, by being more energy-efficient and cost-competitive. We have tailored for Low Enriched Uranium (LEU) for existing civilian nuclear power plants, High-Assay LEU (HALEU) for next-generation Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Microreactors, the production of stable isotopes for medical and scientific research, and applications in quantum computing and semiconductor manufacturing. Our team comprises world-class nuclear experts collaborating with leading entrepreneurs and professionals, fostering strong relationships in both government and private nuclear sectors.

Job Summary The Optical Design Engineer will lead the development, optimization, and implementation of optical systems used for our cutting-edge infrared gas laser systems that are primarily used for isotope enrichment. This role requires a deep understanding of optical engineering principles in relation to laser physics. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in designing high-performance optics/laser systems and a strong ability to translate innovative concepts into scalable, reliable solutions. The position requires the ability to simulate the propagation of free-space laser beams, and the optics and opto-mechanics required to shape the beam caustics and beam profile. Hands-on experience in the lab for the integration/implementation of the optical system is highly desired.

Key Responsibilities and Areas of Expertise

Expertise in ray tracing & POP modeling using Zemax, FRED, etc

Design of stable laser resonators, how it impacts laser beam quality and beam caustics in free space propagation

Mechanical & thermal stability of the laser resonator, and how it impacts laser performance

Knowledge of opto-mechanical systems used for specific optical components

Experience/knowledge with dispersive resonators (i.e. grating) for wavelength adjustment

Experience/knowledge with lenses & telescopes (i.e. spherical, OAP, etc.) - reflective vs refractive

Experience/knowledge with other optics, i.e. Brewster windows, output couplers, beam splitters, adaptive optics, phase-conjugated mirrors, etc.

Solid understanding of polarized laser beams, and how to control it

Experience/knowledge of optics associated for laser metrology

Perform qualification testing, user guide and other technical documents.

Solid vendor knowledge of optics and coatings manufacturers'

Draft and maintain design documentations including BOM, procedures and tests

Knowledgeable with Laser Induced Damage, LIDT of optics & coatings.

Qualifications

Majored in Optics, Physics. Master’s degree with 5 or more years of work experience. Bachelor degree with 10 or more years of work experience.

Demonstrated solid understanding and depth knowledge in optics/laser theory and optical engineering. Proficient with Optical Design Software (CodeV/Zemax/TracePro/Fred)

Expert experience with Zemax

Experience with Wave form distortion

Hands-on experience with laser alignment, optical metrology, and diagnostics.

Familiarity with basic principles of lasers and laser system design

A team player with effective communication and a strong sense of responsibility.

A background in high-power laser optics, infrared optics, Plasma physics or Optomechanical design is highly desirable

Knowledge of advanced gas laser applications in industrial, medical, or research fields.

Familiarity with high-voltage systems and gas handling techniques.

Experience in thermal management and mechanical integration for laser systems.

Project management skills and the ability to work in cross-disciplinary teams.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and collaboration.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the forefront of laser technology development, driving innovations that shape the future of laser enrichment in the industry.

Competitive Compensation Attractive base salary $150k - $180k, depending on level of experience

Stock Options Stock options are available for the right candidate.

Health and Wellness Health and wellness benefits available.

Work Schedule Monday to Friday, full-time on-site role in Oak Ridge, TN. Relocation assistance provided.

Seniority level Mid-Senior level

Employment type Full-time

Industries Defense and Space Manufacturing

Location Oak Ridge, TN

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