COL-2026-048 | Senior Fiber Laser Engineer

Role: Senior Fiber Laser Engineer Industry: Advanced Photonics & Electro-Optics (Directed Energy & Aerospace/Space) Location: Colorado Springs, CO Workplace Type: On-site (Cleanroom / Laboratory) Employment Type: Full-time Compensation: $45.00 – $60.00 / hour ($93,600 – $124,800 annualized) Position Overview Our client, an established developer of specialized photonic devices for defense, space, and industrial applications, is seeking a hands-on Senior Fiber Laser Engineer to support product development for Directed Energy and NewSpace initiatives. Operating primarily within an R&D laboratory and cleanroom environment, the engineer will be responsible for the assembly, characterization, and validation of high-power fiber laser systems, working in tandem with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver high-performance optical solutions. Key Responsibilities Laser System Integration: Build, align, integrate, and test high-power fiber laser architectures and subsystem assemblies. Laboratory & Test Operations: Configure and operate complex optical diagnostics, measurement apparatus, and test setups in cleanroom and laboratory settings. Component Verification: Inspect, evaluate, and qualify incoming and assembled optical components, active/passive fibers, and laser modules. Collaborative R&D: Work closely with cross-functional technical teams (mechanics, electronics, systems) to align laser performance with application specifications. Component Logistics & Handling: Coordinate the procurement, staging, and handling of sensitive, high-value optical hardware and instrumentation. Technical Field Support: Provide occasional on-site support at customer or integration facilities during system deployment. Minimum Qualifications Education: B.S. or advanced degree (M.S. / Ph.D.) in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline. Experience: 5+ years of hands-on engineering experience in laser systems development or optical hardware integration. Citizenship Requirement: U.S. Citizenship required (due to defense and aerospace compliance requirements). Multidisciplinary Aptitude: Solid foundation across optics, mechanical interfaces, and electronic control setups. Diagnostic Tools: Proven familiarity with laboratory instrumentation (optical power meters, oscilloscopes, optical sensors, thermal monitoring gear). Work Style: Detail-oriented, self-directed, and effective within multidisciplinary engineering teams. Preferred Qualifications Hands-on proficiency with specialty fiber handling, precision cleaving, stripping, and fusion splicing. Direct background working on Directed Energy or NewSpace/aerospace laser programs. Practical knowledge of fiber laser cavity dynamics, high-power beam management, and nonlinear optical effects. Strong data analysis, technical documentation, and presentation abilities. Compensation & Benefits Base Rate: $45.00 – $60.00 / hour Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage 401(k) Retirement Plan Paid Time Off (PTO) Flexible working schedule