Senior High-Power Laser Systems Engineer

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 103,000 - 175,000; Full time

Job summary

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory’s BELLA Center seeks a Laser Support Engineer to operate high-power laser systems and support experimental campaigns. The role spans maintenance, diagnostics, and reliability improvements across multiple laser platforms.

Level 1 emphasizes hands-on operation and routine maintenance, while Level 2 invites technical leadership, project coordination with vendors, and collaboration with engineering teams to enhance laser performance and safety.

Qualifications

• 7 years of experience for Level 2, or 3 years for Level 1 in optical and laser systems.
• Experience leading novel optical engineering solutions to improve laser performance.
• Experience specifying and procuring optical components and subsystems.
• Ability to communicate with vendors and negotiate purchases.
• Knowledge of DOE and LBNL safety regulations for electrical and optical hazards.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant area or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

• Operate high power lasers at the BELLA Center, including pump lasers, cooling, vacuum systems and diagnostics.
• Monitor environmental conditions and resolve issues in a cleanroom environment.
• Perform maintenance and procurement to maximize laser system availability and reliability.
• Collaborate with Mechanical and Electrical engineering teams for multi-functional support.
• Develop and implement operational protocols for system performance and safety.

Skills

Project leadership

Troubleshooting

Vendor management

Safety compliance

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Dazzler

Wizzler

FROG

Autocorrelators

Sequoia

Job description

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory’s BELLA Center seeks a Laser Support Engineer to operate high-power laser systems and support experimental campaigns. The role spans maintenance, diagnostics, and reliability improvements across multiple laser platforms.

Level 1 emphasizes hands-on operation and routine maintenance, while Level 2 invites technical leadership, project coordination with vendors, and collaboration with engineering teams to enhance laser performance and safety.