Focused Energy is a fusion energy startup with the goal of generating unlimited clean energy to responsibly meet future global demand. The founders include two highly renowned scientists and a long-time entrepreneur and founder of several successful startups. With the use and commercialization of laser-induced inertial fusion, a clean and highly efficient power generation technology is coming within reach, suitable to ensure a secure and scalable future energy supply.
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Laser Engineer to lead the development of novel laser amplifier modules for Inertial Fusion Energy (IFE) applications. This position is ideal for a mid to senior-level professional with deep expertise in high-energy laser systems, including both diode-pumped and flashlamp-pumped technologies. The successful candidate will play a key role in designing, developing, and testing cutting-edge amplifier modules, with a strong emphasis on leading experimental work in the lab.
Lead and execute R&D projects focused on diode-pumped and flashlamp-pumped laser amplifier module development for IFE.
Conduct thorough research and develop innovative concepts for high-energy and/or high-average power laser systems and/or sub-systems.
Design and analyze laser systems and sub-systems, ensuring they meet the highest standards of performance and reliability. Program, model, and calculate laser system performance, efficiency, and cost. Define specifications of equipment or optical components.
Define test plans and lead experimental work in the laboratory, including laser construction, alignment, diagnostics, and performance characterization.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (optics, thermal, mechanical, systems engineering) to the design optical layouts, thermal management systems, and mechanical assemblies for high-energy laser amplifiers and integrate amplifier modules into larger laser architectures.
Drive iterative design improvements based on experimental results and system performance metrics.
Provide mentorship to junior engineers and technicians working in the lab.
Maintain detailed documentation of designs, experimental procedures, results, and system configurations.
Present technical updates to internal stakeholders and contribute to external publications and conferences as appropriate.
Master's or PhD degree in optics or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, with advanced knowledge of complex physics, optics, or laser systems.
5-10+ years of experience in developing, modeling, designing, analyzing, constructing, and characterizing laser systems, preferably in high-energy pulsed lasers or IFE-related applications.
Demonstrated hands-on experience with diode-pumped and/or flashlamp-pumped laser systems.
Strong laboratory leadership skills, with the ability to manage complex experiments and coordinate team efforts.
Expertise in laser safety, alignment, and diagnostics tools (e.g., beam profiling, power/energy meters, spectrometers).
Proficient with optical design software (e.g., Zemax, LASCAD, or similar) and CAD tools.
Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and in collaborative environments.
Advanced written and verbal communication skills in English are necessary to deliver presentations, prepare written reports, explain technical information, and provide advice to project sponsors and external collaborators.
Preferred: Experience with high-repetition-rate laser systems or large-scale laser facilities (e.g., NIF, Laser Megajoule, or similar).
Preferred: Familiarity with IFE concepts and system-level laser integration challenges.
Preferred: Track record of innovation, patents, or publications in relevant areas.
Innovative Technology & Mission: Be part of a cutting-edge company working on groundbreaking research in clean energy and scientific discovery.
Career Development: We invest in our people. This is an opportunity to join an early, growing company at the forefront of new technology, where you’ll have the opportunity to develop and grow your career.
Collaborative Culture: Work with great people in a dynamic, international environment with top-tier scientists, engineers, and professionals passionate about solving global challenges.
Ownership: Take ownership from day 1 and drive impact by making decisions, solving challenges, and shaping the future of our company.
Your Success is our Success: We offer a competitive salary and company ownership in the form of stock options, giving you a direct stake in our success and ownership in what we build together.
Vacation Days: We support your work-life-balance by granting you 30 days of vacation per year.
Flexibility: We believe that work should fit around your life, not the other way around. We offer the ability to work from our office, but some flexibility to work from home as well.
Snacks and Drinks: Our office fridges are never empty. Enjoy our healthy snacks and drinks. Our Darmstadt office even offers a subsidized canteen with delicious lunch options daily.
Retirement Plan: If you decide for a private pension plan, we will finance 15% on top of your monthly contributions.
Equipment: Choose between a state of the art Windows or Apple Laptop. In addition, you will receive a keyboard, mouse and headset so you are fully equipped from day 1.
Events: We organize regular events to foster team bonding, encourage collaboration, and build a strong, supportive company culture. Connect with colleagues across departments, share ideas, and have fun together, both in and outside of the workplace.
Focused Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status.
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Focused Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Certain roles may be eligible for incentive compensation, equity, benefits.
Apply Now