Senior Laser Engineer

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High-Power Fiber Laser Systems

Seattle, WA Full-Time R&D Division

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About this role

Pulse Space Inc. develops advanced photonics and high-power laser systems for industrial, defense, and scientific applications. Our team drives innovation in kW-class fiber laser architectures, beam combining techniques, and next-generation directed-energy platforms.

We are looking for a Senior Laser Engineer to design, build, characterize, and optimize high-power fiber laser systems from hundreds of watts to multi-kilowatt output levels. This role demands equal parts hands-on laboratory skill and analytical depth — you will take systems from concept through prototype to production-ready hardware. You will work alongside optical, mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to deliver reliable and manufacturable laser products.

In this role, you will

• Design and develop high-power CW fiber laser systems based on Yb-doped and other rare-earth-doped fibers using MOPA architectures
• Perform precision optical alignment, fusion splicing, and assembly of fiber laser cavities, amplifier stages, and beam delivery optics
• Characterize laser performance: output power, beam quality (M²), spectral linewidth, temporal stability, noise (RIN/PSD), and wall-plug efficiency
• Debug and troubleshoot high-power laser subsystems from first light through qualification, identifying root causes under schedule pressure
• Diagnose and mitigate nonlinear effects — stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS), stimulated Raman scattering (SRS), transverse mode instability (TMI), and photodarkening — to maximize output power and reliability
• Select and specify critical optical components: pump diodes, fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs), pump combiners, isolators, cladding-mode strippers, end-caps and etc.
• Develop and maintain test procedures, acceptance criteria, and technical documentation for subsystems and integrated laser products
• Analyze experimental data using Python, MATLAB, or equivalent tools; build simulation models to guide design decisions and predict system performance
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on thermal management, optomechanical packaging, control electronics, and system-level integration

What you bring

• B.S. or higher in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline
• 5+ years of hands-on experience designing, building, and testing high-power fiber laser systems (>100 W output)
• Deep understanding of laser physics: gain media, resonator design, mode theory, Gaussian beam propagation, and fiber nonlinear optics
• Direct experience with Yb-doped double-clad fiber lasers and amplifiers, including pump absorption optimization, ASE management, and thermal load budgeting
• Proficiency in fiber preparation and splicing (fusion splicer operation, cleaving, stripping, and recoating)
• Working knowledge of laser safety standards and cleanroom / optical-lab protocols
• Familiarity with optical design and simulation tools (e.g., Zemax, FRED, etc.)
• Strong analytical skills with demonstrated experience in data acquisition, statistical analysis, and technical reporting

What will set you apart

• M.S. in Physics, Photonics, or Optical Engineering
• Experience developing kW-class fiber laser systems, including SBS/SRS mitigation strategies, TMI suppression, and thermal management at multi-kW power levels
• Hands-on experience with spectral beam combining (SBC) or coherent beam combining (CBC) architectures
• Track record of transitioning laser prototypes from laboratory to manufacturing
• Background in defense, aerospace, or directed-energy laser programs is preferred
• Active U.S. security clearance or eligibility to obtain one is a plus

What we offer

• Competitive salary and equity participation commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits: health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with company match
• The chance to work on state-of-the-art laser systems with tangible real-world impact
• A collaborative, fast-paced R&D culture that values technical excellence
• Professional development support including conference travel and continuing education
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates