Principal Mechanical Engineer - Defense

Description

Who We Are

At nLIGHT, we are constantly on the cutting-edge of laser technology in a massively growing market. We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial, microfabrication, and aerospace & defense applications, to name a few. Our lasers are changing not only the way things are made, but also changing the things that can be in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ : LASR). Position Summary nLIGHT is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to provide technical leadership in the development of high-power fiber laser amplifiers and directed-energy laser systems. This role requires deep expertise in opto-mechanical design and system-level thinking, with responsibility for mechanical architecture, design trade studies, and technical execution across complex programs. The Principal Mechanical Engineer will work closely with optical, electrical, thermal, and systems engineering leaders and will help guide mechanical design strategy for laser amplifier subsystems. Key Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical and opto-mechanical architecture and design for high-power fiber laser amplifiers and directed-energy systems
• Drive design trade studies addressing performance, SWaP, reliability, environmental survivability, manufacturability, and cost
• Define mechanical requirements, interfaces, and system layouts in collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams
• Apply DFX principles and manufacturing best practices to deliver robust, production-ready designs
• Lead or review engineering analyses including thermal management, structural integrity, vibration, shock, and materials selection
• Define and oversee design verification, acceptance testing, and environmental qualification strategies
• Provide technical oversight for procurement, assembly, integration, and test of prototype and production hardware
• Develop tooling, fixtures, and process equipment strategies to support scalable manufacturing
• Support system-level integration and testing of HEL combined systems as required
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance across multiple projects or programs

Required Qualifications

Preferred Experience

nLIGHT is proud to offer comprehensive COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS : Starting pay depends on qualifications :

Other Compensation and Benefits