Laser Optics R&D Program Engineer (f/m/d)

Focused Energy is a fusion energy startup with the goal of generating unlimited clean energy to responsibly meet future global demand. With the use and commercialization of laser-induced inertial fusion, a clean and highly efficient power generation technology is coming within reach, suitable to ensure a secure and scalable future energy supply.

We are seeking a skilled and driven Laser Optics R&D Program Engineer to join our team and help us shape the future of energy. This person will lead several R&D programs covering our laser and optical efforts with external partners.

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  Own multiple concurrent R&D programs end-to-end: scope, schedule, budget, risks, and deliverables covering areas such as optical coatings, nonlinear crystals, and advanced optical technologies. Drive milestone gates, purchase orders, and go/no-go decisions with full accountability.

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  Manage a multi-vendor portfolio of specialist optics and crystal suppliers developing different technologies, operating at different wavelengths, and sometimes competing on the same problem. Maintain confidentiality between suppliers where required.

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  Work with architects and physicists to define test campaigns and qualification specifications — ensuring they are properly scoped, resourced, and scheduled before handing off to the lab for execution.

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  Provide supervision and mentorship to laser engineers and laser technicians responsible for experimental execution, data collection, and test reporting. Ensure data quality, protocol compliance, and timely delivery.

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  Identify findings across programs — consolidating experimental results, vendor deliverables, and comparative analyses into clear recommendations for leadership and actionable specifications for vendors.

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  Communicate progress, risks, and decisions across all stakeholders — leadership, technical teams, and external partners — keeping everyone aligned without over-burdening them.

• Master's or PhD in Optics, Laser Physics, Photonics, Materials Science, or a related field.

• 5+ years of experience in optics, photonics, or laser technology — sufficient to engage credibly with suppliers and internal experts on coatings, nonlinear crystals, and laser components.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multi-partner R&D projects, coordinating external suppliers, research services, and internal teams simultaneously.

• Experience steering technical work packages and coordinating lab activities — you don't need to run every experiment yourself, but you need to know what good looks like.

• Strong orientation toward practical outcomes and industrialisation: able to translate technical results into vendor specifications and programme decisions.

• Fluency in English; self-directed, structured, and comfortable operating in a fast-moving startup environment.

• Preferred: Experience with laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) testing or optical lifetime and reliability characterization.

• Preferred: Knowledge of advanced or emerging optical coating technologies

• Preferred: Experience working with external optics suppliers and/or photonics research institutes

• Preferred: German and/or French language proficiency