Senior Laser Engineer (Laser Writing & Readout Systems)

About the Role

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We are looking for a highly skilled and experienced Senior Laser Engineer to help in designing, developing and optimising an integrated system for writing and reading encoded information using laser.

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The ideal candidate will possess strong hands-on experience with class 4 Nd:YAG nanosecond pulsed laser operation, frequency doubling, laser optics, polarisation control, beam shaping, combined with computer skills to automate optical components control using software.

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You will join a small, interdisciplinary team and play a central role in advancing a next-generation optical security and sensing technology platform.

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Key Responsibilities

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Design and implement optical setup for encoding and retrieval of information using laser writing.

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Develop and characterise laser writing in a range of materials using nanosecond-pulsed Nd:YAG laser in a variety of optical ranges (266 nm / 532 nm / 1064 nm).

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Lead a small team to build and align free-space optical systems involving apertures, waveplates, galvo mirrors, beam splitters, illumination filters, spatial light modulators, detectors, and scanning stages.

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Create algorithms and control software for:

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Spatial light modulators

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Laser pulse triggering and modulation

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Galvo and waveplates control

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Develop calibration and characterisation procedures for optical components and detectors.

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Perform experiments to measure laser-written signatures, contrast, and stability.

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Document optical designs, test results, safety protocols, and build procedures.

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Contribute to IP development, patent drafts, and design reviews.

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Qualifications & Experience

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Degree in Optics, Physics, Photonics Engineering, Laser Engineering or related discipline (PhD level).

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Essential Skills

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Hands-on experience with class 4 Nd:YAG nanosecond pulsed lasers (setup, alignment, safety, diagnostics) and laser optics.

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Strong experience with programmable spatial light modulators and modern techniques for light shaping.

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Knowledge of Optical design principles

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Proven ability to build and align complex optical setups on optical tables.

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Experience with programming for experimental automation (e.g., Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB, C++).

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Strong data analysis and visualisation skills.

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Desirable Skills

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Polarisation optics (Jones/Mueller calculus, retarders, liquid-crystal optics, chiral and anisotropic materials).

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Familiarity with optical simulation tools (e.g., Zemax, Lumerical, Code V, or similar).

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Knowledge of laser–material modification, micro-patterning, or laser inscription.

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Experience with optical metasurfaces, birefringent coatings, or structured light.

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Personal Attributes

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Strong experimental skills and troubleshooting ability.

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Experience that enables to take a lead in a small team of laser engineers and take ownership of complex tasks.

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Detail-oriented with strong documentation habits.

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Creative problem solver with interest in novel optical technologies.