Optics Lab Manager

The role

The Optics Lab Manager will own the optics lab end-to-end, including space, equipment, test setups, and experiments. You will translate project goals into experiment plans and build hardware to support the optics team.

What you will do

• Translate project goals and technical risks into experiment plans and setups
• Design or fabricate custom mounts and fixtures
• Assemble optical, fiber, mechanical, and electronic components into test cells
• Execute test campaigns and capture data
• Define, procure, and set up lab equipment and infrastructure
• Align free-space optical systems and troubleshoot problems
• Write instrument control and data acquisition code
• Maintain experiment procedures, build records, and equipment inventory
• Run laser safety practices for high-power NIR systems
• Plan and help execute field verification of flight-representative hardware

Required qualifications

• 7+ years of hands-on experimental lab experience in optics, lasers, or photonics
• B.S. in physics, optics or a related field, or equivalent hands-on optics lab experience
• Ability to independently design, build, align, and troubleshoot free-space optical setups
• Experience producing custom mounts and fixtures via CAD or fabrication
• Working knowledge of lasers, detectors, and core optical components
• Hands-on experience using spectrometers and optical spectrum analyzers (OSAs)
• Optical fiber handling and assembly experience
• Understanding of thermal management for laser systems
• Disciplined documentation habits
• Laser safety training and hands-on practice working with Class 3B and Class 4 lasers

Nice to have

• Hands-on experience with optical test and metrology equipment
• Thermal vacuum chamber (TVAC) integration and testing experience
• Experience planning or supporting outdoor or long-range field tests
• Experience serving as a Laser Safety Officer (LSO)
• Certified Laser Safety Officer (CLSO) credential
• Familiarity with cleanroom practices and ISO 14644-1 cleanroom classifications
• Hands-on machining or fabrication skills
• Experience setting up or managing a lab
• Experience training or mentoring other lab staff or students
• Military technical, national laboratory, or space hardware program experience

Benefits

• Equity
• Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance coverage
• Health and wellness stipend
• 4 weeks paid time off
• 2 weeks sick leave
• Parental leave
• 401(k) matching

Before you apply

• Subject to U.S. Government space technology export regulations (ITAR)
• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual, or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State

About the company

Overview Energy is a mission-driven team building satellites in geosynchronous orbit to redirect solar energy to terrestrial solar projects via near-infrared light. Headquartered in the Northern Virginia / Washington, DC area, they are advancing next generation clean energy technology.