ARA · 22 hours ago
Laser Engineer
Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking a Laser Engineer to join a multi-disciplinary team focused on researching laser biological effects and laser eye protection solutions. The role involves operating and maintaining various laser systems, supporting advanced laser and optical experiments, and ensuring compliance with safety and security requirements.
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Responsibilities
Build and operate complex laser-based experimental setups in optical laboratories to support applied research and advanced technology development
Assist in the development of experimental architectures using CW and pulsed laser sources (e.g., solid-state, fiber, diode, ultrafast) tailored to mission-relevant applications
Perform precision optical alignment, beam conditioning, stabilization, and diagnostic activities
Support the development of experimental objectives, success criteria, and test plans aligned with research programs and Technology Readiness Level (TRL) maturation
Perform data collection, analysis, and interpretation to assess system performance and technology feasibility
Troubleshoot and resolve optical, mechanical, electronic, and software issues affecting experimental performance
Ensure full compliance with DoD laser safety, environmental, and laboratory security requirements
Document experimental designs, results, and conclusions in technical reports, briefings, and peer-reviewed publications as appropriate
Collaborate with government, FFRDC, academic, and industry partners
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline
Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in laser and optical laboratory research
Demonstrated experience leading or independently executing complex experimental research efforts
Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance
Preferred
MS or PhD in a relevant technical discipline
Experience with DoD laboratories
Background in mission-relevant areas such as directed energy, advanced sensing, spectroscopy, space optics, or laser–matter interactions
Experience working with CW and pulsed laser sources
Capability to develop and automate experiments using data acquisition and control software (MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, or similar)
Existing TS or TS/SCI clearance
Benefits
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
Company
ARA
ARA provides research, engineering, and technical support services.
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$12MKey Investors
Engineer Research and Development Center
2023-03-16Grant· $12M
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