Laser and Optics Controller

About the role

You will manage the laser and optics lifecycle for the Phoenix system, overseeing its operation, maintenance, and continuous optimization. This role requires a hands-on approach to ensuring the integrity and performance of all optical hardware and laser infrastructure within the facility. You will work in close partnership with subject matter experts to qualify the system for safe and effective operation. Once qualified, you will function as a Beamline Controller, executing precise procedures in collaboration with the Shot Director during experimental runs. You will also perform hands-on maintenance and upgrades during scheduled downtime to minimize system disruption. Your daily work will directly influence the pace of development for sustainable energy solutions. This position represents a critical role in advancing clean energy technology through meticulous technical execution.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Execute the operational scope for the with a focus on system reliability.
• Adhere strictly to scope requirements as defined by the engineering and safety protocols of the facility.
• Meet the practical bar for onsite work as outlined in the Practical notes section of the role description.
• Achieve and maintain qualification status as a Laser and Optics Controller for the Phoenix Laser System.
• Perform standard procedures as a Beamline Controller to support laser experiments and testing cycles.
• Interface dynamically with the Shot Director to coordinate laser firing sequences and safety checks.
• Develop and refine operational procedures for the pulsed power system to enhance efficiency.
• Diagnose performance anomalies during operations and maintenance activities with a methodical approach.
• Conduct hands-on integration tasks, maintenance, and system upgrades alongside the Phoenix team.
• Interpret complex optical specifications to ensure component compatibility with commercial and custom standards.
• Modify beam propagation paths to recollimate divergent beams or shift focal points as required by test parameters.
• Select optical components rigorously based on diameter, coating, flatness, surface quality, and damage threshold metrics.
• Construct physical optical installations by interpreting detailed optical schematics provided by the engineering team.
• Perform basic diagnostics to identify misalignment, beam clipping, ghost images, and other common optical faults.
• Apply fundamental knowledge of light-matter interactions, including absorption, amplification, dispersion, and energy saturation.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in optics, physics, or a related technical field that provides a foundational understanding of laser technology.
• Demonstrate prior experience in manufacturing or operating optical hardware in a technical environment.
• Willingness to work a standard 8-hour shift with potential overtime during critical periods or system emergencies.
• Capability to interpret basic optical specifications to verify the suitability of components for specific applications.
• Understanding of optical coating functions, including reflectivity, bandwidth, angle sensitivity, and damage threshold characteristics.
• Familiarity with appropriate cleaning methods for various optic types and delicate coatings to preserve performance.
• Skill in handling delicate components and performing precise mechanical adjustments without causing damage.
• Fundamental knowledge of light-matter interactions, including absorption, amplification, dispersion, and energy saturation principles.
• Proficiency in two aperture alignment methods to ensure accurate beam positioning and system alignment.
• Capability to modify beam propagation, such as recollimating a divergent beam or shifting the focal point to meet experimental goals.
• Adherence to laser safety standards, including awareness of hazardous wavelengths, exposure limits, and the proper use of eye protection.
• Competence in selecting optical components based on detailed specifications for diameter, coating type, flatness, surface quality, and damage threshold.
• Skill in interpreting optical schematics to accurately construct physical installations and align optical benches.
• Basic diagnostic ability to troubleshoot issues such as misalignment, beam clipping, ghost images, and typical optical faults.
• Physical ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl in confined spaces as required for maintenance and installation tasks.
• Physical ability to lift unassisted items weighing up to 50 pounds for extended periods during equipment handling.
• U.S. citizenship, national status, permanent residency, or authorized asylum to comply with regulated access requirements.

Nice to have

• Direct experience with pulsed power laser systems to accelerate the qualification process.
• Familiarity with industrial control systems and pneumatic or mechanical apparatus used in laser infrastructure.

Practical notes

• Location requires onsite presence at the Denver, Colorado headquarters.
• Employment is full-time, demanding reliable attendance and commitment to operational schedules.
• U.S. citizenship, national status, permanent residency, or authorized asylum is mandatory for this position.
• Willingness to work standard shifts with potential overtime is essential for role fulfillment.
• Candidates must be able to lift 50-pound items regularly and navigate physical environments that require crouching or climbing.