Optical Systems and Laser Technician

Optical Systems and Laser Technician

(this is a full-time position based onsite out of our San Carlos, California headquarters office)

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.

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.

• System Assembly & Integration: Assemble, test, and integrate high‑power fiber laser systems and free‑space optical systems into mechanical structures intended for space deployment.
• Alignment and Testing: Align optical systems (lenses, mirrors) to meet wavefront and beam quality requirements. Conduct final testing and validation of laser systems to ensure they meet performance specifications.
• Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Perform routine maintenance on laser equipment. Troubleshoot and resolve issues with the systems, including power supplies, optics, and controls.
• Prototyping & Characterization: Support the development, assembly, and characterization of laser and optical systems in a laboratory environment.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed records of equipment use, test schedules, maintenance reports, and performance assessments.
• Safety & Compliance: Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures, including the use of protective equipment, to ensure a safe working environment.
• Collaboration: Work closely with engineers and scientists from cross‑functional teams (mechanical, electrical, thermal) to integrate components and deliver high‑performance systems.

• Experience: At least 2–3 years of hands‑on experience with laser systems, preferably high‑power, solid‑state, fiber, or semiconductor lasers.
• Education: An Associate’s degree in photonics or optics is typical for a technician role; Aetherflux’s engineer roles require a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.

• Proficiency with lab test equipment (oscilloscopes, cameras, beam profilers, optical spectrum analyzers, power meters, wavefront sensors)
• Experience with fiber laser component integration and testing
• Experience with optical systems, imaging and non‑imaging
• Experience with optical and laser diagnostic methods such as knife‑edge test
• Strong background in science, technology, mathematics, and electronics
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints
• Proficiency with specifications of optics and fiber optics

• Experience with high‑power laser beams and high‑power laser diagnostics
• Proficiency with optical fiber cleaving and splicing
• Proficiency with Linux, Python, MATLAB, and/or LabVIEW
• Experience working in a clean‑room environment

• Strong problem‑solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills to interact with diverse professional backgrounds.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams including software, electrical, hardware, optical, and non‑technical specialties.
• Strong technical presentation and communication skills.

Capability to work in a highly regulated, clean, and demanding R&D or manufacturing environment.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Manufacturing and Engineering

Industries

Defense and Space Manufacturing

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