Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead

Job DescriptionOur client is seeking a Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead to drive the architecture, development, and delivery of advanced solid-state laser systems for airborne and space-based government aerospace programs.This individual will serve as both a deep technical authority and a program catalyst - leading laser system design while motivating cross-functional teams to execute on aggressive technical milestones. The ideal candidate combines strong theoretical and modeling expertise with demonstrated experience pushing complex hardware programs from concept through integration and qualification.Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical LeadershipArchitect and lead development of advanced solid-state laser systems including:Oscillators (linear and ring)MOPA (Master Oscillator Power Amplifier) architecturesOPO/OPA systemsSingle-frequency / narrow-linewidth lasersFrequency conversion stages (SHG, THG, nonlinear mixing)Own cavity design, gain modeling, thermal analysis, and system energeticsLead nonlinear optics development and frequency conversion optimizationGuide LIDAR transmitter laser development for airborne and space platformsPerform system-level optical modeling and tolerance analysis (Zemax)Ensure performance, reliability, and environmental robustnessProgram Execution & Team LeadershipServe as technical lead for laser subsystem programsTranslate high-level requirements into executable technical plansDrive design reviews, risk assessments, and milestone executionIdentify technical risks early and develop mitigation strategiesMentor and guide junior optical engineers and physicistsCreate a culture of technical rigor, accountability, and momentumCoordinate with systems, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teamsSupport customer interactions and government technical reviewsRequired QualificationsM.S. or Ph.D. in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field5+ years of experience in solid-state laser development (2-8+ years post-graduate experience depending on degree)Demonstrated experience leading technical efforts or small engineering teamsDemonstrated deep expertise in at least one of the following areas:Laser resonator stability and designGain media physics and thermal managementNonlinear optics and frequency conversionSingle longitudinal mode and narrow-linewidth operationExperience designing and modeling:High peak power or high pulse energy systemsMOPA systemsNonlinear frequency conversion, OPO/OPA architecturesStrong proficiency with optical modeling tools (e.g. Zemax)Experience delivering hardware into airborne or space environments preferredU.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a security clearancePreferred QualificationsExperience developing laser systems for LIDAR applicationsDiode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) laser expertiseExperience with environmental qualification (e.g. thermal, vibration, vacuum)Radiation effects awareness for space-based systemsExperience working on DoD or aerospace prime contractsTrack record of taking laser systems from concept to flight qualificationLeadership Profile We're SeekingNaturally assumes ownership of technical outcomesDrives momentum - does not wait for directionCommunicates clearly with engineers, management, and customersBalances deep physics rigor with practical program executionMentors junior staff and raises overall team capabilityComfortable operating in high-visibility, mission-critical programs

Created: 2026-04-02