Optical Systems and Laser Technician

About Aetherflux

Aetherflux is solving the global energy crisis by building the infrastructure for abundant, resilient, and continuous space-based solar energy. We are tackling humanity’s most complex engineering challenge with a world-class team dedicated to delivering a revolutionary power platform. Aetherflux is transforming how civilization powers, computes, and connects—from orbit to Earth.

Optical Systems and Laser Technician

(this is a full-time position based onsite out of our San Carlos, California headquarters office)

Overview

The Laser Technician at Aetherflux will play a key role in designing, developing, and optimizing high-power laser systems for our satellites. This role requires expertise in fiber optic system assembly, optical system alignment, laser characterization, and validation for operation in a space environment. You will collaborate with mechanical, electrical, optical, software, and systems engineers to push the boundaries of laser power beaming from space to Earth.

Key Responsibilities:

• System Assembly & Integration: Assemble, test, and integrate high-power fiber laser systems and free-space optical systems into mechanical structures intended for space deployment.

• Alignment and Testing: Align optical systems (lenses, mirrors) to meet wavefront and beam quality requirements . Conduct final testing and validation of laser systems to ensure they meet performance specifications.

• Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Perform routine maintenance on laser equipment. Troubleshoot and resolve issues with the systems, including power supplies, optics, and controls.

• Prototyping & Characterization: Support the development, assembly, and characterization of laser and optical systems in a laboratory environment.

• Documentation: Maintain detailed records of equipment use, test schedules, maintenance reports, and performance assessments.

• Safety & Compliance: Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures, including the use of protective equipment, to ensure a safe working environment.

• Collaboration: Work closely with engineers and scientists from cross-functional teams (mechanical, electrical, thermal) to integrate components and deliver high-performance systems.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Experience: At least 2-3 years of hands-on experience with laser systems, preferably high-power, solid-state, fiber, or semiconductor lasers.

• Education: An Associate's degree in photonics or optics is typical for a technician role, while Aetherflux's engineer roles require a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.

• Required Technical Skills:

• Proficiency with lab test equipment (eg. Oscilloscopes, cameras, beam profilers, optical spectrum analyzers, power meters, wavefront sensors)

• Experience with fiber laser component integration and testing

• Experience with optical systems, imaging and non-imaging

• Experience with optical and laser diagnostic methods such as (knife edge test)

• Strong background in science, technology, mathematics, and electronics

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints

• Proficiency with specifications of optics and fiber optics

• Preferred Technical Skills:

• Experience with high power laser beams and high power laser diagnostics

• Proficiency with optical fiber cleaving and splicing

• Proficiency with linux, python, matlab, and/or labview

• Experience working in a clean-room environment

• Soft Skills: Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills to interact with diverse professional backgrounds. Experience working in multi-disciplinary teams including software, electrical, hardware, optical, and non-technical specialties. Strong technical presentation and communication skills.

• Work Environment: Capability to work in a highly regulated, clean, and demanding R&D or manufacturing environment.