Senior Laser Engineer - Alignment & Optics Lead

Focused Energy; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Stock options

Unlimited PTO

Medical, Dental, Vision

401k with 4% match

Laptop provided

Job summary

Focused Energy's Austin laser team is building and commissioning a kJ-class laser system. This Senior Laser Engineer role anchors laser setup and alignment, owning beam path layouts end-to-end and advancing the optical diagnostic package for the program’s maturation.

You will work hands-on on-site alongside senior scientists and engineers, translating designs into procurable BOMs and coordinating with Controls Engineering on automation interfaces.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with high-power laser systems and precision beam alignment.
• Ability to translate beam path plans into optomechanical layouts and deliver complete BOMs.
• Knowledge of laser diagnostic instrumentation, alignment, and cleanroom handling for high-damage optics.
• Ability to work independently on optical layout and component selection.
• Familiarity with laser safety standards (ANSI Z136 / Class 4).

Responsibilities

• Own laser setup, alignment, and beam path implementation from layout to commissioning.
• Produce complete optomechanical layouts and BOMs with Laser team leadership.
• Drive beam-smoothing designs and component procurement with internal and external teams.
• Own optical side of diagnostic package, including integration and calibration.
• Develop optical alignment automation interfaces with Controls Engineering.
• Follow cleanroom protocols during optical handling and installation.
• Collaborate with Controls Engineering on diagnostic architecture and interfaces.
• Support experiments with hands-on optical assistance during campaigns.

Skills

High-power lasers

Beam alignment

Optical integration

BOM creation

Laser safety

Tools

Optomechanical CAD

Laser diagnostic tools

Job description

Focused Energy's Austin laser team is building and commissioning a kJ-class laser system. This Senior Laser Engineer role anchors laser setup and alignment, owning beam path layouts end-to-end and advancing the optical diagnostic package for the program’s maturation.

You will work hands-on on-site alongside senior scientists and engineers, translating designs into procurable BOMs and coordinating with Controls Engineering on automation interfaces.