Job summary
Job post source
This job is from a recruiting firm hiring for a separate company.
Job overview
The Laser Engineer role at an emerging defense technology startup involves leading development of laser beam delivery, targeting subsystems, and materials testing for next-gen defense laser platforms, impacting real-time threat neutralization.
Responsibilities and impact
The engineer will design and assemble optical trains, develop optomechanical subsystems for targeting, conduct laser-material interaction tests, evaluate laser sources, collaborate with cross-functional teams, build prototypes, and document system performance and test results.
Experience and skills
Candidates need 4-7 years in high-power or directed-energy systems, proficiency in optical design and mechanical CAD tools, practical experience with high-power laser optics, and a BS or MS in a relevant field; military-grade laser platform experience and safety standard familiarity are bonuses.
Work environment and culture
The company is an early-stage, mission-driven startup focused on hands-on, experimental work in a fast-paced environment with a focus on real hardware and field testing.
Company information
The company is an emerging defense technology startup specializing in counter-UAS applications using precision beam-control and automated targeting technology.
Team overview
The candidate will join an early-stage team working closely with mechanical, control systems, and sensor teams to integrate optical components into broader systems.
Job location and travel
The position is full-time and on-site in San Francisco, CA.
Application process
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply directly or send a message to the recruiter.
Unique job features
The role is unique for its hands-on, mission-critical nature involving benchtop prototyping and live-fire field testing of advanced laser systems.
Company overview
Searchability NS&D, headquartered in Austin, Texas, is a specialized division of the global tech recruitment group Searchability, established in 2022. The company focuses on National Security & Defence (NS&D) recruitment, providing staffing solutions for highly specialized roles, including machine learning engineers and senior systems engineers with security clearances. With additional offices in Chester, UK, and Sydney, Australia, Searchability NS&D aims to transform the recruitment landscape for defense and security sectors by connecting top talent with blue-chip companies and disruptive defense AI startups.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight hands-on experience with high-power laser optics, optical bench development, and optical design software like Zemax or Code V, emphasizing your proficiency in mechanical CAD tools such as SolidWorks or Creo to align with the role's technical demands.
Emphasize your experience in laser-material interaction testing, laser-induced damage threshold characterization, and your ability to design and assemble optical trains including mirror mounts, fiber interfaces, and coatings, as these are critical for this position.
Apply through multiple channels including Searchability NS&D's corporate career page, LinkedIn, and specialized defense technology job boards to maximize your chances of getting noticed.
Connect with engineers and team members in the optical or laser systems division at Searchability NS&D on LinkedIn; use ice breakers like commenting on recent company advancements in counter-UAS technology or asking about their approach to integrating optical components with control systems.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'high-power laser optics,' 'optical design tools,' 'laser-material interaction,' 'beam delivery,' 'targeting subsystems,' and 'optomechanical subsystems' to ensure it passes automated screenings.
Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature can automate submitting your tailored applications across multiple platforms, identify LinkedIn connections to network with, and optimize your resume for ATS, allowing you to focus more on preparing for interviews and technical discussions.
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