An Optical or Laser Engineer researches and develops technology that uses the science of light (optics). Optical technology includes fiber optic cables, which enable high-speed internet connections across long distances, and lasers, which can be used to make very small incisions and measurements. Works closely with scientists and engineers from other fields on advances in technology.
Senior Project EngineerJob Description A leading defense technology company is expanding its Systems Engineering portfolio into terrestrial High Energy Laser (HEL) technologies, supporting products in the 300-500kW class. As the Senior Project Engineer, you will serve as the team's first dedicated representative in this space, focusing on execution ownership rather than system design. You will work within a 'Triad' leadership model alongside a Program Manager and a Chief Engineer. Responsibilities + Own program execution from cradle-to-grave, including proposal phase, award, execution, and closeout. + Shape the program baseline by allocating budgets, setting technical tasks, and scheduling post-contract award. + Serve as the technical point of contact for program execution, identifying risks and developing solutions. + Support Integrated Project Teams by resolving cross-subsystem disagreements to optimize overall system performance. + Coordinate with functional managers to build and staff the right team for program needs. + Support internal budget negotiations and represent the program in follow-on proposal activities. + Contribute to technical design reviews by preparing system readiness packages and collaborating with the Chief Engineer. Essential Skills + 12+ years of relevant engineering and/or project engineering experience. + Direct experience with solid-state lasers, fiber lasers, High Energy lasers, or high power laser systems. + Working knowledge of systems engineering fundamentals, including requirements flow-down and system interplay. + Familiarity with technical design review milestones such as
SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, MRR.
+ Ability to obtain and maintain a high-level U.S. government security clearance. + Engineering or related technical degree preferred. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Experience with Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) and Integrated Master Schedules (IMS). + Earned Value Management (EVM) experience. + Prior DOD/defense industry experience is useful but not required. + Familiarity with SolidWorks and/or Microsoft Project. + Experience in adjacent technical domains like missile defense or satellite systems is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Work Environment This is an onsite role, supporting three of the company's four P&Ls, covering space systems and payloads, and expanding into terrestrial HEL. As the Project Engineer, you will own the execution, funding/budget negotiation, technical tasking, risk identification, and subsystem optimization. Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out of Poway, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $128000.00 - $229000.00/yr. Benefits through GA. Direct placement. Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Poway,CA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Aug 21, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
