Optical Simulation Engineer, Digital Twin

About the role

Focused Energy is at the forefront of developing a fusion power platform that utilizes laser-induced inertial fusion to deliver sustainable energy solutions. As part of the Laser team, you will play a pivotal role in constructing and managing the simulation frameworks that drive our digital twin environment. Your work will have a significant impact on the design, testing, and optimization of our advanced high-energy laser systems, contributing to the future of clean energy.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop and maintain comprehensive simulation frameworks that integrate optical, thermal, and mechanical models to enhance system performance.
• Design and implement models for laser amplifier systems, focusing on components such as gain media, pumping configurations, and thermal dynamics.
• Enhance the digital twin environment to accurately predict and optimize the performance of our laser systems.
• Analyze simulation results in comparison to empirical test data, performing uncertainty assessments to validate model accuracy.
• Generate surrogate and reduced-order models to streamline simulation processes and improve computational efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with laser physicists and engineers to translate simulation findings into actionable hardware design improvements.
• Work alongside systems architects and project managers to ensure that simulation models are aligned with overarching program objectives.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team discussions, providing insights from simulations to inform design and engineering decisions.
• Document and present simulation methodologies and findings to diverse audiences, ensuring clarity and understanding across technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in simulation techniques and laser technology to continuously improve our methodologies.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in applied mathematics, computational physics, optics, or a closely related field is essential.
• Proven experience in simulating intricate physical systems, demonstrating a strong understanding of the underlying principles.
• Proficiency in integrating various domains such as fluid dynamics, mechanical systems, thermal processes, and optical physics into cohesive models.
• Solid knowledge of laser physics, including aspects of amplification, propagation, and nonlinear optical effects.
• Familiarity with data-driven approaches for model refinement and validation processes.
• Strong programming skills in languages such as C/C++, MATLAB, or Python, with a focus on simulation applications.
• Experience with simulation software tools like CodeV, Zemax, FRED, ANSYS, or COMSOL is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal, to effectively convey complex technical concepts to a range of audiences.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment while also being capable of independent problem-solving.

Nice to have

• Experience in developing digital twins or comprehensive system-level simulation frameworks would be advantageous.
• A background in leveraging simulation data for performance forecasting and optimization.
• Familiarity with advanced modeling techniques such as metamodeling, surrogate modeling, or multidisciplinary optimization workflows, including Design of Experiments (DoE), Uncertainty Quantification (UQ), and machine learning applications.
• Experience with automation scripting and high-performance computing (HPC) batch scheduling systems.
• Knowledge of Monte Carlo simulation methods and their applications in uncertainty analysis.
• A keen interest in high-energy-density physics or the field of fusion energy.
• Practical experience with optomechanical assemblies or conducting laser research and development testing.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in programming languages: Python, MATLAB, C/C++
• Familiar with simulation and modeling software: COMSOL, ANSYS, Zemax, CodeV, FRED
• Expertise in digital twin development and multiphysics coupling
• Strong understanding of uncertainty quantification methodologies

Practical notes

Focused Energy is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. Our hiring practices are based on the skills, experience, and qualifications of candidates. The company complies with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, which addresses considerations regarding arrest and conviction records in the hiring process. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply and join us in our mission to revolutionize energy production through innovative fusion technology.

About the company

Energy Focused Energy is at the forefront of developing NeoLyte - a pioneering initiative in compact, laser-driven radiation sources (LDRS) utilizing high-power laser technology. Our dual-mode LDRS platform integrates MeV X-rays and fast neutrons within a single, modular system, enabling real-time, non-destructive inspection of even the most complex and shielded materials.