Senior Laser Systems Engineer

Location: San Francisco, California, us

Company Description

A venture-backed defense technology company is developing advanced directed-energy laser platforms designed to counter small unmanned aerial threats. The team operates in a fast-paced, hardware-focused environment where concepts move quickly from lab prototype to field deployment.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Laser Systems Engineer to architect, develop, and validate beam-delivery and targeting subsystems for next-generation laser platforms. This role owns end-to-end beam-train design, automated aiming systems, and materials testing across both pulsed and continuous-wave (CW) regimes.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Design and assemble complete optical beam paths including coatings, mirrors, fiber/optic interfaces, and precision alignment fixtures to meet power and beam-quality targets

• Architect and integrate automated aiming and targeting subsystems, combining optomechanics, sensors, and control-system interfaces for precision tracking and dwell control

• Plan and execute material ablation experiments and optical damage-threshold characterization to refine durability and performance

• Conduct wavelength and laser architecture trade studies considering efficacy, manufacturability, safety, and supply-chain constraints

• Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, controls, and sensor engineering teams to ensure system-level integration

• Drive rapid prototype builds, optical alignment, and range/field testing cycles, capturing performance data to iterate on designs

• Develop optical alignment procedures, calibration workflows, and repeatable test methodologies

• Generate technical reports, optical schematics, and design documentation throughout the development lifecycle

• Ensure optical designs, lab practices, and field testing comply with relevant laser safety standards and export/regulatory requirements

• Present technical findings, risks, and design updates to internal stakeholders and leadership

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• 4–7 years of experience in high-power or directed-energy laser development, optical-train engineering, or related fields

• Deep proficiency with optical design software such as Zemax or Code V

• CAD experience with tools such as SolidWorks or Creo

• Hands-on experience with high-power coatings, mirror mounts, fiber-optic interfaces, and precision alignment techniques

• Demonstrated experience with ablation testing and optical damage-threshold characterization

• Familiarity with both pulsed and continuous-wave laser architectures and wavelength trade-offs

• BS or MS in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline

• Strong analytical, communication, and collaborative problem-solving skills

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident

Preferred / Nice to Have

• Experience with field-deployed or defense-related optical/laser systems

• Background in optical fiber handling and splice qualification

• Environmental qualification testing experience (vibration, thermal shock, humidity, etc.)

• Familiarity with ANSI Z136 laser safety standards and export control regulations

• Active security clearance or ability to obtain one

Additional Information

Work Environment

Highly hands-on laboratory and field environment with rapid hardware iteration, live testing cycles, and close collaboration across optics, electronics, and mechanical engineering teams. Ideal for engineers who thrive in experimental development and real-world hardware deployment.

information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.