Electrical Quality Engineer

Who We Are

nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is one of the nation’s leading developers of Directed Energy systems, which is a top modernization priority of the Department of Defense. Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment of high energy laser solutions to the United States military and our allies. Located in Longmont, Colorado, nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is a vertically integrated business that leverages internal capabilities – from semiconductor device through target identification – to develop systems that are both high-performance and cost-effective. We continue to invest in capabilities, facilities and technology to bring leading edge HEL solutions to the warfighter. This is a great opportunity to work at a company that is on the leading edge of the HEL industry and provides a culture of excellence and commitment to delivering solutions to the warfighter and our country.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain quality control processes for PCB, cable harness, and photonic assemblies.
• Conduct intake inspection, verification, and final acceptance testing in accordance with MIL-STD and IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3.
• Compile and review product test reports, inspection records, and other quality documentation.
• Perform data analysis; identify trends and initiate corrective/preventive actions (CAPA).
• Lead or assist in Root Cause and Corrective Action (RCCA) investigations and coordinate cross-functional resolutions.
• Support First Article Inspections (FAI), qualification testing, and process capability studies.
• Ensure calibration and traceability of test equipment.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and mentor technicians and junior engineers in QA practices.

Required Experience / Capability

• Commitment to Excellence. Attention to Detail. Pride in Workmanship.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering (or related technical discipline).
• 3+ years of quality engineering experience in PCB, cable harness, or photonics/electro-optical systems.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001:2015, AS9100, and MIL-STD quality systems.
• Understanding of IPC-A-610 and IPC/WHMA-A-620 workmanship standards.
• Demonstrated experience with FMEA, CAPA, and RCCA processes.
• Familiarity with Altium Designer 365, SolidWorks 3D CAD, and data-driven analysis tools (Excel, Minitab, or equivalent).
• Strong organizational, documentation, and communication skills.
• Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) – ASQ
• Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) – ASQ
• Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) – ASQ
• Experience with High Energy Laser (HEL) or photonic weapon system programs.
• Experience in a DoD or defense manufacturing environment.

Benefits Summary

• 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
• 11 paid Holidays
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents
• Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100%
• Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting