Optical Laser Engineer

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.

This job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at Aetherflux's discretion.

Export Control Requirement: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Aetherflux is an equal employment opportunity employer. We consider individuals for employment or promotion according to their skills, abilities and experience. Aetherflux is committed to complying with all applicable laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, physical, mental or developmental disability, sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and medical conditions relating to pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding), veteran status, military status, marital or registered domestic partnership status, medical condition (including cancer or genetic characteristics), genetic information, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, as well as any other category protected by federal, state or local laws.

• Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

• 3+ years of experience in laser engineering, including the design, development, and testing of high-power laser systems.

• Hands-on experience with high-powered lasers, including fiber or semiconductor lasers

• Strong knowledge of laser physics, beam control techniques, nonlinear optics, etc.

• Experience using oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, beam profilers, and laser power meters.

• Master's or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.

• Proficiency in optical design and simulation tools such as Zemax, Code V, or COMSOL.

• 5+ years of experience developing laser systems for aerospace or space applications.

• Familiarity with space qualification processes, including environmental testing (thermal-vacuum, vibration, radiation).

• Experience in laser-based energy transmission, free-space optics, or laser communications.

• Knowledge of advanced thermal management techniques for high-power laser applications.

• Background in integrating laser systems with high-precision pointing and tracking mechanisms.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a hands-on approach to system prototyping and validation.