Job Details

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.
• 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.