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

About This Opportunity

Our talent team is representing a confidential fusion energy organization working on next-generation clean power technology. They are seeking a Laser Optics R&D Program Engineer to lead critical research and development initiatives with external partners in Darmstadt, Germany.

This role offers the chance to manage cutting-edge optical and laser programs while working at the intersection of advanced physics, engineering, and commercial deployment in the renewable energy sector.

Responsibilities

• Own and manage multiple concurrent R&D programs end-to-end, covering scope, schedule, budget, risk management, and deliverables in areas such as optical coatings, nonlinear crystals, and advanced optical technologies
• Drive milestone gates, purchase orders, and critical go/no-go decisions with full accountability for program outcomes
• Manage a multi-vendor portfolio of specialist optics and crystal suppliers, maintaining confidentiality between competing vendors where required
• Collaborate with architects and physicists to define test campaigns and qualification specifications, ensuring proper scoping, resourcing, and scheduling
• Provide supervision and mentorship to laser engineers and technicians responsible for experimental execution, data collection, and test reporting
• Consolidate experimental results, vendor deliverables, and comparative analyses into clear recommendations for leadership and actionable specifications for external partners
• Communicate progress, risks, and decisions effectively across all stakeholders including leadership, technical teams, and external partners

What We're Looking For

Required qualifications:

• Master's or PhD in Optics, Laser Physics, Photonics, Materials Science, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in optics, photonics, or laser technology with ability to engage credibly with suppliers and 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 laboratory activities
• Strong orientation toward practical outcomes and industrialization, able to translate technical results into vendor specifications and program decisions
• Fluency in English; self-directed, structured, and comfortable in fast-moving startup environments

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience with laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) testing or optical lifetime and reliability characterization
• Knowledge of advanced or emerging optical coating technologies
• Experience working with external optics suppliers and/or photonics research institutes
• German and/or French language proficiency

How We Work With You

Candidates apply directly through Get A Job.ai. Our recruiting team will conduct an initial screening to understand your background and match you with the right opportunity. We then submit qualified candidates to our client for consideration. Please do not contact the client directly—all communication flows through our team to ensure a professional and organized process.

Pay

Compensation details will be discussed during the screening process and are determined by factors including experience, qualifications, and location. This position is based in Darmstadt, Germany and includes competitive base salary, equity participation, and comprehensive benefits.

Get A Job.ai is an equal opportunity recruiter. We consider all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.