Optical Laser Engineer

Overview

The Laser Engineer at Aetherflux will play a key role in designing, developing, and optimizing high-power laser systems for our satellites. This role requires expertise in laser physics, optical engineering, and space systems, with a strong focus on integrating lasers into a spaceborne environment. You will collaborate with mechanical, electrical, optical, software, and systems engineers to push the boundaries of laser power beaming from space to Earth.

Responsibilities

• Laser System Design: Develop high-power laser systems tailored for satellite space applications, including fiber and semiconductor lasers.
• Optical Modeling & Simulation: Use optical design software to model and optimize laser power transmission.
• Component Selection & Integration: Compare and select laser components (optics, gain media, etc) and integrate them into a cohesive payload system.
• System Prototyping & Testing: Develop prototypes, perform lab validation, and measure system performance against design specs.
• Thermal Management: Work with thermal engineers to design cooling solutions to manage laser system stability and efficiency.
• Space Qualification & Reliability: Ensure laser systems meet spaceflight requirements (radiation resistance, TVAC performance, mechanical robustness, etc.)
• Innovation: Stay at the forefront of laser technology and industry trends, proposing novel approaches to improve efficiency and power density
• Documentation: Generate detailed design documentation, including design specs, test plans, analysis reports, and operational & safety procedures
• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate laser systems with satellite power, control, and pointing mechanisms.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in laser engineering, including the design, development, and testing of high-power laser systems.
• Hands-on experience with high-powered lasers, including fiber or semiconductor lasers
• Strong knowledge of laser physics, beam control techniques, nonlinear optics, etc.
• Experience using oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, beam profilers, and laser power meters.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Proficiency in optical design and simulation tools such as Zemax, Code V, or COMSOL.
• 5+ years of experience developing laser systems for aerospace or space applications.
• Familiarity with space qualification processes, including environmental testing (thermal-vacuum, vibration, radiation).
• Experience in laser-based energy transmission, free-space optics, or laser communications.
• Knowledge of advanced thermal management techniques for high-power laser applications.
• Background in integrating laser systems with high-precision pointing and tracking mechanisms.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a hands-on approach to system prototyping and validation.

Compensation and Benefits

$110k - $150k per year

• Equity in Aetherflux
• Employees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Paid time off
• 10 paid holidays per calendar year
• Paid leave for new parents
• Relocation assistance
• Daily lunch in the office and a fully stocked kitchen with beverages and snacks

Export Control Requirement

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.