Laser Engineer - San Leandro

About the role

This role supports a fusion energy company building high-performance pulsed power systems. You will design, test, and scale laser systems that drive magnetized liner inertial fusion experiments. The position requires broad ownership from concept through installation and operations.

Software engineers turn product ideas into working code. Engineers work in small teams, review each other's work, and ship in small batches. Most teams follow agile practices such as sprints and daily standups. Engineers also write tests, fix bugs, and improve performance. The field values clear communication as much as technical skill. Engineers spend part of every week on planning, code review, and debugging, not just writing new code. The ability to explain a technical decision in plain words separates strong engineers from the rest.

Key facts

What you'll do

High-energy laser systems generate short-duration, high-energy light pulses, and you develop these systems. Testing of laser cavity, mirror, and amplifier components ensures survival under high-energy pulses. Integration of laser systems with broader platform components is handled together with optical, electrical, and mechanical engineers. Exploration of new technologies and techniques improves high-energy laser performance through dedicated research and development. Product conformity to industry standards and MagLIF requirements is ensured through implemented quality control procedures. Project schedules and cost analysis keep initiatives on track and within budget.

Requirements

A Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in optics, optoelectronics, laser physics, electrical engineering, photonics, or a related field is required. High energy laser design, analysis, and testing experience over two years demonstrates essential capability. Laser amplification techniques experience spanning two years is necessary. Laser modeling and simulation software plus other design tools require two plus years of hands-on use. Clear communication and effective complex problem solving are mandatory. Occasional travel to Montreal is part of the role expectations. Extended hours or weekend work is required when project needs demand it. U.S. government eligibility under ITAR regulations must be met for this position.

Practical notes

This role is based in San Leandro, California, and may involve occasional travel to Montreal and extended hours when project needs require it. The company operates under ITAR export control rules, and role eligibility must align with U.S. government requirements. Typical interview steps

Hiring for engineering roles usually starts with a recruiter screen, followed by one or two technical rounds. Candidates often solve a coding problem, discuss past projects, and answer system design questions. Some loops include a take-home task. Final rounds typically cover team fit and give candidates a chance to ask questions. Interviewers look for how you break down an unfamiliar problem, not just whether you reach the answer. Practicing a few problems aloud and reviewing your own past projects are the best preparation.

Good to know

Fusion energy teams typically work with high-voltage pulsed power hardware and advanced optical diagnostics. Core tools often include laser platforms, high-speed diagnostics, and simulation software for plasma and optical systems. Roles in this field emphasize rigorous testing, safety compliance, and close cross-functional collaboration.

Career growth

Engineering careers usually progress from individual contributor to senior, staff, and principal levels. Some engineers move into management and lead teams of five to twenty people. Others stay on the technical track. Growth follows demonstrated impact, not tenure alone. A typical engineering ladder has clear levels with defined expectations for scope, quality, and mentorship. Moving up usually requires owning outcomes end to end rather than completing assigned tickets.