Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead

Job Title Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead

Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary)

Salary $150,000-$210,000.

Job 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:

Oscillators (linear and ring)

MOPA (Master Oscillator Power Amplifier) architectures

OPO/OPA systems

Single-frequency / narrow-linewidth lasers

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

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