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Aetherflux

Optical Systems and Laser Technician

Aetherflux, San Carlos, California, United States, 94071

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Optical Systems and Laser Technician (this is a full-time position based onsite out of our San Carlos, California headquarters office)

About Aetherflux Aetherflux is solving the global energy crisis by building the infrastructure for abundant, resilient, and continuous space-based solar energy. We are tackling humanity’s most complex engineering challenge with a world-class team dedicated to delivering a revolutionary power platform. Aetherflux is transforming how civilization powers, computes, and connects—from orbit to Earth.

Overview The Laser Engineer at Aetherflux will play a key role in designing, developing, and optimizing high‑power laser systems for our satellites. This role requires expertise in laser physics, optical engineering, and space systems, with a strong focus on integrating lasers into a spaceborne environment. You will collaborate with mechanical, electrical, optical, software, and systems engineers to push the boundaries of laser power beaming from space to Earth.

Key Responsibilities

System Assembly & Integration:

Assemble, test, and integrate high‑power fiber laser systems and free‑space optical systems into mechanical structures intended for space deployment.

Alignment and Testing:

Align optical systems (lenses, mirrors) to meet wavefront and beam quality requirements. Conduct final testing and validation of laser systems to ensure they meet performance specifications.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting:

Perform routine maintenance on laser equipment. Troubleshoot and resolve issues with the systems, including power supplies, optics, and controls.

Prototyping & Characterization:

Support the development, assembly, and characterization of laser and optical systems in a laboratory environment.

Documentation:

Maintain detailed records of equipment use, test schedules, maintenance reports, and performance assessments.

Safety & Compliance:

Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures, including the use of protective equipment, to ensure a safe working environment.

Collaboration:

Work closely with engineers and scientists from cross‑functional teams (mechanical, electrical, thermal) to integrate components and deliver high‑performance systems.

Qualifications & Skills

Experience:

At least 2–3 years of hands‑on experience with laser systems, preferably high‑power, solid‑state, fiber, or semiconductor lasers.

Education:

An Associate’s degree in photonics or optics is typical for a technician role; Aetherflux’s engineer roles require a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.

Required Technical Skills

Proficiency with lab test equipment (oscilloscopes, cameras, beam profilers, optical spectrum analyzers, power meters, wavefront sensors)

Experience with fiber laser component integration and testing

Experience with optical systems, imaging and non‑imaging

Experience with optical and laser diagnostic methods such as knife‑edge test

Strong background in science, technology, mathematics, and electronics

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints

Proficiency with specifications of optics and fiber optics

Preferred Technical Skills

Experience with high‑power laser beams and high‑power laser diagnostics

Proficiency with optical fiber cleaving and splicing

Proficiency with Linux, Python, MATLAB, and/or LabVIEW

Experience working in a clean‑room environment

Soft Skills

Strong problem‑solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills to interact with diverse professional backgrounds.

Experience working in multidisciplinary teams including software, electrical, hardware, optical, and non‑technical specialties.

Strong technical presentation and communication skills.

Capability to work in a highly regulated, clean, and demanding R&D or manufacturing environment.

Seniority level Mid‑Senior level

Employment type Full‑time

Job function Manufacturing and Engineering

Industries Defense and Space Manufacturing

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