Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead in Herndon
Job DescriptionJob Description
We are seeking a Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead to drive the
architecture, development, and delivery of advanced solid-state laser systems for airborne and space-
based government aerospace programs.
This individual will serve as both a deep technical authority and a program catalyst — leading laser
system design while motivating cross-functional teams to execute on aggressive technical milestones.
The ideal candidate combines strong theoretical and modeling expertise with demonstrated experience
pushing complex hardware programs from concept through integration and qualification.
Key Responsibilities:
Technical Leadership
Architect and lead development of advanced solid-state laser systems including:
o Oscillators (linear and ring)
o MOPA (Master Oscillator Power Amplifier) architectures
o OPO/OPA systems
o Single-frequency / narrow-linewidth lasers
o Frequency conversion stages (SHG, THG, nonlinear mixing)
Own cavity design, gain modeling, thermal analysis, and system energetics
Lead nonlinear optics development and frequency conversion optimization
Guide LIDAR transmitter laser development for airborne and space platforms
Perform system-level optical modeling and tolerance analysis (Zemax)
Ensure performance, reliability, and environmental robustness
Program Execution Team Leadership
Serve as technical lead for laser subsystem programs
Translate high-level requirements into executable technical plans
Drive design reviews, risk assessments, and milestone execution
Identify technical risks early and develop mitigation strategies
Mentor and guide junior optical engineers and physicists
Create a culture of technical rigor, accountability, and momentum
Coordinate with systems, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams
Support customer interactions and government technical reviews
Why This Role Matters This role will directly shape next- airborne and space-based laser
systems that support critical aerospace and security missions. The right candidate will not only
design exceptional laser architectures but will elevate the performance of the entire team.
Job Requirements
Required Qualifications:
M.S. or Ph.D. in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
5+ years of experience in solid-state laser development (2–8+ years post-graduate experience
depending on degree)
Demonstrated experience leading technical efforts or small engineering teams
Demonstrated deep expertise in at least one of the following areas:
o Laser resonator stability and design
o Gain media physics and thermal management
o Nonlinear optics and frequency conversion
o Single longitudinal mode and narrow-linewidth operation
Experience designing and modeling:
o High peak power or high pulse energy systems
o MOPA systems
o Nonlinear frequency conversion, OPO/OPA architectures
Strong proficiency with optical modeling tools (e.g. Zemax)
Experience delivering hardware into airborne or space environments
U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a security clearance
Qualifications:
Experience developing laser systems for LIDAR applications
Diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) laser expertise
Experience with environmental qualification (e.g. thermal, vibration, vacuum)
Radiation effects awareness for space-based systems
Experience working on DoD or aerospace prime contracts
Track record of taking laser systems from concept to flight qualification
Leadership Profile We’re Seeking
Naturally assumes ownership of technical outcomes
Drives momentum — does not wait for direction
Communicates clearly with engineers, management, and customers
Balances deep physics rigor with practical program execution
Mentors junior staff and raises overall team capability
Comfortable operating in high-visibility, mission-critical programs
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Great Company culture
Company DescriptionGreat Company culture