Senior Laser Systems Engineer

Optek Systems Inc.; Abingdon; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Humanetics is seeking an experienced engineer to lead photonics aspects of machine design and commissioning, and drive laser process development and applications.

You will own commissioning of machines to meet customer requirements and ensure timely delivery, working closely with software, electrical and mechanical teams.

Qualifications

• BSc in Engineering or Physics required; MSc/PhD advantageous.
• 5-10 years of industrial experience in a relevant technical role.
• Experience with automated industrial machinery.
• Experience with precision motion systems.
• Basic software/coding ability.
• Knowledge of industrial vision technology.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, alignment and commissioning of optical systems, mainly laser and vision.
• Ensure timely delivery of machines by meeting deadlines.
• Champion projects through to customer delivery.
• Install and commission bespoke laser machines at customer sites.
• Communicate progress to customers and stakeholders.
• Provide remote support and on-site assistance as needed.
• Apply logical fault-finding methods to resolve issues.
• Collaborate with Software, Electrical and Mechanical teams.
• Translate proof of principle into turnkey laser processes.

Skills

Laser micro-machining

Laser setup

Materials science

PLC knowledge

Electrical drawings

Coding basics

Laser optics

Stakeholder communication

Time management

Self-motivation

Education

BSc in Engineering or Physics

MSc/PhD advantageous

Tools

Industrial vision technology

Job description

Posted Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 11:00 PM

Role Purpose:

To lead all photonics aspects of machine design and commissioning as well as laser process development and applications. The engineer will take ownership of the commissioning of machines to meet customer requirements and ensure timely delivery.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties:

Reporting to the Principal Laser Systems Engineer , responsibilities for this role include:

• Lead the design, alignment and commissioning of optical systems, mainly laser and vision but other optical systems may be encountered.
• Work to deadlines to ensure timely delivery of machines
• Championing projects through to customer delivery
• Active involvement in the installation and commissioning of bespoke laser machines
• Communicating progress to customers
• Supporting machines remotely and on customer sites
• Applying a logical fault-finding methodology
• Working with other functional teams such as Software, Electrical and Mechanical to ensure issues are resolved quickly and to an appropriate standard.
• Taking laser processes from proof of principle to turnkey solutions

Additionally, the role may involve other duties and responsibilities as appropriate for the position.

Role Requirements:

• Experience of laser micro-machining
• Hands on laser setup
• Materials science knowledge and experience
• Basic PLC knowledge
• Ability to read electrical drawings
• Basic coding
• Good knowledge of laser hardware and optics
• Good communication skills with internal and external stakeholders
• Able to work on own initiative and collaborate successfully with others
• Able to work on multiple projects and manage own time appropriately
• Strong desire to learn and develop

Education and/or Experience:

• Minimum BSc in a relevant discipline – Engineering or Physics; MSc/ PHD in a relevant discipline would be advantageous
• Minimum 5-10 years’ industrial experience in a relevant technical role
• Experience with automated industrial machinery
• Experience with precision motion systems
• Basic software/ coding ability
• Knowledge of industrial vision technology

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Humanetics is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled/LGBT employer