Laser (Coherent Beam Combining) Engineer

Laser (Coherent Beam Combining) Engineer ( Job code:2025001)

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Lasers, Optics, Physics, Engineering, or a related field, with experience in high-energy laser system design and development

• Strong expertise in high energy laser coherent beam combining technologies

• Background and expertise with semiconductor laser sources and fiber laser amplifiers

• Proficiency with modeling software such as Finesse, Zemax, COMSOL, Lumerical, RSoft, Python, Mathematica, or ANSYS Lumerical for laser and cavity simulations.

• Experience developing electro-mechanical feedback systems is desirable

• Experience working in cross-disciplinary teams across multiple technical fields

About Blue Laser Fusion (BLF):

BLF is a startup based in Goleta, CA, developing a high-energy laser system to enable laser-driven inertial fusion energy (IFE). Following the success of the National Ignition Facility at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, BLF aims to create a high-energy, high repetition-rate laser capable of sustaining repeated nuclear fusion reactions. We are tackling the key scientific and engineering challenges necessary to make this a reality.

Job Description:

We are seeking an experienced engineer to drive the development of advanced high energy laser systems using coherent beam combining techniques. The BLF laser-optical enhancement cavity platform utilizes a Fabry-Pérot cavity to stack and store a train of lower power pulses into kJ+ high-energy pulses. This system requires:

• Ultra-high reflectivity mirrors

• Pulsed, high power laser injection

• High finesse cavities up to 150m in length

• Precise resonance tuning between the input laser and the cavity

• Minimization of optical losses

The Laser Engineer will enhance BLF’s laser-OEC concept by:

• Developing CBC laser sources with increased input power

• Developing active optical, mechanical, and feedbacking elements to maintain resonance

• Work with laser and fiber amplifier vendors to develop and procure optimal sources

• Modeling optical performance of the laser-enhancement cavity using industry-standard software

• Assessing thermal effects at higher input powers

• Troubleshooting and optimizing system performance

The Laser Engineer will be expected to:

• Work on site primarily in Goleta (Santa Barbara), CA

• Occasionally travel to work with international and domestic development partners

• Work closely with BLF Founder, Shuji Nakamura

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive medical and dental benefits package.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Stock options

Join us in advancing fusion energy technology and pushing the boundaries of high-energy laser systems.