Laser Scientist

About the role

Focused Energy is building a Focused Energy Lasers Austin (FELA) facility in Austin, TX, and this role exists to make that build happen at the bench level. As a Laser Scientist, you'll own the hands-on execution of core laser experiments, such as setting up a laser front end, achieving two-dimensional SSD (smoothing by spectral dispersion), frequency tripling, FM-AM, and large-scale solid-state amplifier characterization experiments. You'll create the execution capacity FELA needs to move from facility build-out to a productive experimental program.

Responsibilities

• Own the hands-on setup, alignment, and execution of assigned FELA laser experiments including setting up the laser front end, running two-dimensional SSD, frequency tripling, FM-AM, and main amplifier characterization experiments.
• Lead bench-level troubleshooting.
• Drive the day-to-day experimental schedule, ensuring setups are ready and experiments run on time against the FELA build-out plan.
• Ensure all laser safety protocols and lab safety standards are followed without exception in a Class 3B/4 laser environment.
• Build and maintain organized, well-documented lab records covering equipment status, alignment logs, and experimental data.
• Improve experimental setups and procedures over time, identifying and proposing refinements based on hands-on experience.
• Partner with laser scientists on joint experimental sessions, providing reliable bench execution that enables scientific progress.
• Help the FELA facility scale its experimental program by building repeatable, well-documented setups that others can follow.

Requirements

• Hands-on experience with fiber and free-space laser systems, nonlinear optics (frequency conversion, beam smoothing), laser beam characterization, and optical alignment and diagnostics.
• Comfortable working independently on bench-level setup, alignment, and troubleshooting, and know when to escalate a genuinely stuck problem rather than push through it.
• A systematic, methodical approach to experimental work, with strong lab notebook and data documentation habits.
• Working knowledge of laser safety standards (ANSI Z136) and experience operating safely in Class 3B/4 laser environments.