Advanced Laser Systems Technology (ALST) has an opening for a Laser Optical Engineering Lead. ALST is located in Orlando, Florida and is part of Intelligent Manufacturing Solutions (IMS) which is headquartered in Londonderry, NH. ALST is an established leader in Electro-Optical laser systems for military defense applications domestically and internationally. As a trailblazer in designing and developing highly engineered, innovative solutions, ALST is world renowned for its expertise in the areas of laser range finders and laser designators and our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers’ mission and quest for professional growth. We offer an alternative work schedule and the opportunity to work with a talented and diverse group of professionals.

JOB SUMMARY

The Laser Optical Engineering Lead is crucial for the execution of innovation, development and supporting production efforts. This is a hands-on role working directly with laboratory instruments, optical systems, lasers, and technical troubleshooting in both a research and development environment as well as a production environment and includes hardware integration, testing and final reports.

This role drives innovation to develop new laser technology, supporting characterization and qualification of new product introductions. Works on problems of diverse scope where analysis of information requires evaluation of identifiable factors. Devises solutions based on limited information and precedents and adapts existing approaches to resolve issues. Uses evaluation, judgment, and interpretation to select right course of action. 

COMPLEXITY & PROBLEM SOLVING

Works on significant and unique issues where analysis of situations or data requires an evaluation of intangibles. Requires conceptual thinking to understand advanced issues and implications. Exercises independent judgment in methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. Accountable for results, which may impact the entire function.

COLLABORATION & INTERACTION

Creates formal networks involving coordination among groups. Focuses on providing thought leadership and works on broader organization projects, which requires understanding of wider business. Requires conveying advanced information and persuading several diverse stakeholders/audiences. Recognized internally as a subject matter expert. May direct the activities of others.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Drive research and development involving lasers, laser systems, optical instrumentation and new markets.
• Support with the design, setup, testing, and improvement of optical and laboratory systems.
• Collect, analyze, interpret, and document experimental data.
• Troubleshoot complex experimental problems involving lasers, optics, electronics, vacuum systems, and instrumentation.
• Work collaboratively with scientists, engineers, and technical staff on research and product development projects.
• Support complete lifecycle of lasers and laser systems from development through production
• Support with technical input for proposals in support of Business Development and Engineering teams
• Assist with technical roadmap development
• Interface with optical vendors providing technical documentation and guidance as needed for them to supply their components to meet system requirements
• Support hands on integration and testing of complex subsystems across all interfaces
• Occasional travel, domestic and international, to government labs, customers and supplier sites. 
• Enhances relationships and networks with internal/external partners who are not familiar with the subject matter often requiring persuasion. Adapts style to differing audiences and often advises others on difficult matters.

REQUIRED CAPABILITIES

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. Person as defined by ITAR due to government contract requirements.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance
• Engineering and manufacturing experience, including research and development, in a fast paced, highly technical environment
• Possess the ability to follow manufacturing process plans, make continuous improvement suggestions, work with minimal supervision, show attention to detail, be able to multitask, be a self-starter, and have the ability to prioritize work
• Possess problem-solving skills, with the ability to think creatively, develop innovative solutions and work with minimal      supervision.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Strong project management skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work well within and outside of the organization with customers, vendors and leadership with minimal oversight
• Ability to work in a fast paced, small team environment
• Able to provide technical support to engineering and manufacturing
• Action and result oriented.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure and to tight deadlines.
• Willingness to take on project ownership and accountability. 
• Able to work additional hours evenings and / or weekends to meet customer commitments and company objectives

EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree and minimum of 10 years or Graduate degree and minimum of 5 years of prior relevant experience
• 4+ years of Optical Test experience in a DoD laser environment
• 7+ years’ experience writing technical documentation and developing analysis and reports
• 10+ years of Laser / Optical engineering experience
• Proficient with standard engineering software
• Experience with best practices for optical engineering and program execution and managing multi-discipline programs

Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.