Senior Solid State Laser Systems Technician

Job TitleSenior Solid State Laser Systems TechnicianLocationHerndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary)Job DescriptionWe are seeking an experienced Solid-State Laser Systems Technician to support the hands-on assembly, integration, alignment, and testing of advanced solid-state laser systems in a research laboratory environment.This role works closely with laser, mechanical, and electrical engineers to execute builds based on verbal direction, sketches, and evolving documentation, particularly during early-stage prototype development. As systems mature, the technician will also support formalized build and acceptance testing for deliverable hardware intended for operation in demanding environments.The ideal candidate is a senior technician who is comfortable working in a research setting, can independently execute complex optical builds, and brings strong workmanship and lab discipline without owning the underlying laser architecture or design direction.Key ResponsibilitiesIndependently assemble, integrate, and align solid-state laser systems and subsystemsBuild and align laser resonators, amplifiers, and non-linear frequency conversion modulesSupport integration of lasers into mechanically and environmentally robust packaged systemsExecute optical alignment and troubleshooting with minimal supervisionSupport early-stage prototype builds where procedures and designs may evolvePerform performance characterization and diagnostic testing under engineering guidanceExecute formal acceptance and qualification testing for deliverable systemsInterpret verbal instructions, sketches, and partial documentation and translate them into high-quality hardwareIdentify workmanship issues, integration risks, or build-related improvements and communicate them to the technical teamAccurately document configurations, alignment settings, and test resultsMaintain lab organization, tooling, and laser safety practicesServe as an experienced lab resource for best practices and informal mentoringJob RequirementsMinimum Requirements5+ years of hands-on laboratory experience with solid-state laser systems or high-power optical assembliesDemonstrated experience supporting R&D or prototype laser development programsStrong background in optical alignment, resonator setup, and laser diagnosticsProven ability to execute complex builds based on verbal guidance and evolving requirementsHigh attention to detail, workmanship, and documentationEducationBachelor's degree, Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent hands-on laboratory experience(Relevant experience is valued over formal degree.)Desired QualificationsExperience with environmentally ruggedized or packaged laser systemsExperience with non-linear optics and frequency conversion (e.g., SHG, OPO, OPA)Experience performing acceptance or qualification testingExperience working in small research teams or defense / government-funded programsComfort serving as a "go-to" lab technician for complex optical buildsFIBERTEK, Inc. is a recognized leader in advanced lasers, lidars and laser communication systems providing our DoD, NASA and aerospace customers discriminating capabilities. We pride ourselves in our innovation and customer success focused culture enabled by a creative and relaxed work environment. Fibertek fosters a progressive learning environment that values inspiration, promotes professional challenge and encourages personal growth. We offer a competitive and incentivized compensation package with excellent benefits.