Job Title Senior Solid State Laser Systems Technician

Location Herndon, VA 20171

Salary $95,000 - $140,000

Job Description We are seeking an experienced Solid-State Laser Systems Technician to support the hands-on assembly, integration, alignment, and testing of advanced solid-state laser systems in a research laboratory environment.

This role works closely with laser, mechanical, and electrical engineers to execute builds based on verbal direction, sketches, and evolving documentation, particularly during early-stage prototype development. As systems mature, the technician will also support formalized build and acceptance testing for deliverable hardware intended for operation in demanding environments.

The ideal candidate is a senior technician who is comfortable working in a research setting, can independently execute complex optical builds, and brings strong workmanship and lab discipline without owning the underlying laser architecture or design direction.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently assemble, integrate, and align solid-state laser systems and subsystems
• Build and align laser resonators, amplifiers, and non-linear frequency conversion modules
• Support integration of lasers into mechanically and environmentally robust packaged systems
• Execute optical alignment and troubleshooting with minimal supervision
• Support early-stage prototype builds where procedures and designs may evolve
• Perform performance characterization and diagnostic testing under engineering guidance
• Execute formal acceptance and qualification testing for deliverable systems
• Interpret verbal instructions, sketches, and partial documentation and translate them into high-quality hardware
• Identify workmanship issues, integration risks, or build-related improvements and communicate them to the technical team
• Accurately document configurations, alignment settings, and test results
• Maintain lab organization, tooling, and laser safety practices
• Serve as an experienced lab resource for best practices and informal mentoring

Job Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• 5+ years of hands-on laboratory experience with solid-state laser systems or high-power optical assemblies
• Demonstrated experience supporting R&D or prototype laser development programs
• Strong background in optical alignment, resonator setup, and laser diagnostics
• Proven ability to execute complex builds based on verbal guidance and evolving requirements
• High attention to detail, workmanship, and documentation

Education

• Bachelor’s degree, Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent hands-on laboratory experience (Relevant experience is valued over formal degree.)

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with environmentally ruggedized or packaged laser systems
• Experience with non-linear optics and frequency conversion (e.g., SHG, OPO, OPA)
• Experience performing acceptance or qualification testing
• Experience working in small research teams or defense / government-funded programs
• Comfort serving as a “go-to” lab technician for complex optical builds

Benefits offered: The company provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; disability, life insurance, and AD&D; a 401(k) plan with a company match and immediate vesting; Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts; an Employee Assistance Program; education assistance; paid time off and holidays; flexible work schedules; and a 9/8/80 alternate workweek option.