Senior Optical Engineer

About Focused Energy

At Focused Energy, we are developing NeoLyte, a breakthrough initiative that pioneers compact, laser-driven radiation sources (LDRS) based on high-power laser technology. These dual-mode sources combine MeV X-rays and fast neutrons in a single system. The platform is modular and enables real-time, non-destructive inspection of materials, even when those that are complex or shielded. NeoLyte’s technology addresses critical challenges across nuclear waste analysis, contraband detection, infrastructure inspection, and medical isotope production. With its unique combination of resolution, material specificity, and deployment flexibility, LDRS open up new possibilities far beyond conventional systems. We bring together a cross-disciplinary team of laser and plasma physicists, engineers, and AI experts. We are building our first pilot facility in Biblis (Germany), with the goal to reach market readiness and commercial deployment quite soon. Be part of shaping this deep-tech venture from the ground up! As our Senior Optical Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in conceptualizing and realizing the optical systems that are critical to our product roadmap, leading projects and collaborating closely across disciplines to bring cutting-edge optical solutions from concept to production.

What you’ll do

• Design and specify concept and detailed designs for complex optical systems, aligned with functional and performance requirements.

• Lead the integration of optical components with mechanical, electrical, and software subsystems, ensuring seamless product functionality.

• Drive development projects, providing technical leadership and mentoring junior engineers on optical design and problem-solving.

• Develop and implement qualification and validation test plans to verify optical system performance and reliability.

• Innovate and push the boundaries of optical technology by researching and developing novel optical concepts and solutions.

• Manage collaborations with laser suppliers and external partners to ensure alignment with ambitious product milestones.

• Participate actively in design reviews of relevant modules, ensuring manufacturability and adherence to regulatory and quality standards.

Who you are

• 7+ years of hands-on experience designing, developing and validating advanced optical systems, preferably high-peak power laser beam transport systems.

• Expertise in optical design principles, materials, coatings, and testing methods, with demonstrated experience in ultra-short pulse laser systems is a strong plus.

• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary projects and collaborate effectively with engineers from mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines.

• Demonstrated technical leadership experience, guiding teams and influencing project direction.

• Solid knowledge of precision mechanics and opto-mechanical design principles to support integration efforts.

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a track record of developing and validating innovative solutions.

• Proactive communicator with the ability to clearly present complex optical concepts to diverse stakeholders.

Why join us?

• A chance to help shape a cutting-edge deep-tech venture at the intersection of photonics, nuclear physics, AI, and plasma science.

• Daily collaboration with leading experts in laser physics, nuclear diagnostics, machine learning, and plasma physics from top academic and industrial partners.

• A meaningful mission: contribute to solving global challenges like nuclear waste safety, critical infrastructure protection, and the transition to clean energy.

• Access to high-end experimental setups, large-scale laser systems, and simulation environments ideal for hands-on learning and technical growth.

• Strong personal development opportunities with early responsibility, exposure to the full innovation cycle, and support for publishing or attending conferences.

• A vibrant, collaborative team culture that combines scientific depth with startup energy: flat hierarchies, fast iterations, and room for your ideas.

• Flexibility through hybrid work models, adaptable hours, and a results-driven mindset.

What we offer:

• Innovative Technology & Mission: Be part of a cutting-edge company working on groundbreaking research in clean energy and scientific discovery.

• Career Development: We invest in our people. This is an opportunity to join an early, growing company at the forefront of new technology, where you’ll have the opportunity to develop and grow your career.

• Collaborative Culture: Work with great people in a dynamic, international environment with top-tier scientists, engineers and professionals passionate about solving global challenges.

• Ownership: Take ownership from day 1 and drive impact by making decisions, solving challenges and shaping the future of our company.

• Your Success is our Success: We offer a competitive salary and company ownership in the form of stock options, giving you a direct stake in our success and ownership in what we build together.

• Vacation Days: We support your work-life-balance by granting you 30 days of vacation per year.

• Flexibility: We believe work should adapt to your life—not the other way around. That’s why we offer a hybrid setup, giving you the freedom to work from our office while also enjoying the flexibility to work from home when it suits you.

• Snacks and Drinks: Our office fridges are never empty. Enjoy our healthy snacks and drinks. Our Darmstadt office even offers a subsidized canteen with delicious lunch options daily.

• Retirement Plan: If you decide for a private pension plan, we will finance 15% on top of your monthly contributions.

• Equipment: Choose between a state-of-the-art Windows or Apple Laptop. In addition, you will receive a keyboard, mouse and headset so you are fully equipped from day 1.

• Events: We organize regular events to foster team bonding, encourage collaboration, and build a strong, supportive company culture. Connect with colleagues across departments, share ideas, and have fun together, both in and outside of the workplace.

• Mobility with NAVIT: We partner with NAVIT to support your flexible commuting needs—whether it’s a public transportation ticket, taxi rides or car-sharing you choose what fits your lifestyle.

• Fitness with Wellhub: We care about your health. Get access to a wide range of gyms, fitness studios and wellness services across Europe through our partnership with Wellhub.

Focused Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Focused Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Certain roles may be eligible for incentive compensation, equity, benefits.