Optical Laser Engineer

Aetherflux • Full-time • San Carlos, CA, US • $90k - $130k / year • 2m ago

Optical Laser Engineer

Aetherflux is solving the global energy crisis by building the infrastructure for abundant, resilient, and continuous space-based solar energy. We are tackling humanity's most complex engineering challenge with a world-class team dedicated to delivering a revolutionary power platform. Aetherflux is transforming how civilization powers, computes, and connects-from orbit to Earth.

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.

Benefits

Employees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement savings plan
Unlimited paid time off
10 paid holidays per calendar year
Paid leave for new parents
Relocation assistance

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