Software Engineer - UX / Front-End IPG Photonics - 3.4 Huntsville, AL Job Details 7 hours ago Benefits Health savings account AD&D insurance Employee stock purchase plan Paid holidays Disability insurance Health insurance Dental insurance Flexible spending account Tuition reimbursement Adoption assistance Parental leave Employee assistance program Vision insurance 401(k) matching Paid sick time Pet insurance Qualifications Windows C++ Bachelor's degree Human-machine interface (HMI) configuration Linux Rendering Cross-functional collaboration Cross-functional communication Full Job Description IPG Defense , a stand-alone business of IPG Photonics, was incorporated in 2026 to provide direct support for defense products. Headquartered in Huntsville, AL, IPG Defense is bringing commercial scale to laser defense systems, leveraging IPG Photonics' more than 35 years of experience in fiber laser technology. IPG Photonics is the world's leading developer and manufacturer of high-performance fiber lasers and amplifiers for diverse applications in numerous markets. IPG's diverse lines of low, medium and high-power lasers and amplifiers are used in materials processing, defense, medical, biotechnology, scientific and advanced applications. Founded in 1990, IPG pioneered the development and commercialization of optical fiber-based lasers — a critical technology in our high-energy laser (HEL) systems, including the

CROSSBOW

program.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Software Engineer - UX / Front-End develops operator dashboards and visualization tools for IPG's defense-grade high-energy laser systems. This position combines UX design principles with high-performance C++/Qt development to create real-time control and situational-awareness interfaces for mission-critical applications. This opening targets a mid-level engineer; junior and senior candidates may also be considered, with level determined by experience and qualifications.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Design and implement intuitive, easy-to-use GUIs in C++/C# and Qt (including QML) for laser command, camera views, diagnostics, and health monitoring. Integrate real-time telemetry, video, and safety data into unified, low-latency visual displays. Work directly with system operators and test teams to refine workflows, run usability evaluations, and iterate on interface designs. Support AR-based visualization for alignment and targeting. Apply secure-coding, code-review, and CI practices across the interface codebase. Ensure adherence to DFARS cybersecurity and MIL-STD usability standards.

Requirements:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field. 3-7 years of experience in front-end or UX development for technical systems (junior and senior candidates considered at the appropriate level). Proficiency in C++ and C# with Qt/QML on Windows and Linux. Experience building real-time or data-rich interfaces (telemetry, monitoring, or control applications). Experience developing UI/UX for camera or video systems and/or defense systems, with a demonstrated focus on operator ease of use. Experience with GPU-accelerated rendering (OpenGL or similar). Strong written and verbal communication skills for cross-disciplinary collaboration.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Active DoD security clearance. AR/VR interface development experience (Unity or Unreal Engine). Experience with HMI design for mission-critical or safety-critical systems. Familiarity with defense UI/UX standards and human-factors principles. Experience with Java, CUDA, or video streaming pipelines (e.g., GStreamer). Experience conducting usability testing with end users.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Primarily office/lab setting; occasional travel to field sites and use of laser-safety

PPE. WHY JOIN IPG DEFENSE

Work at the forefront of directed-energy and photonics innovation on systems that matter to national security.

Vertically integrated technology:

we design and build our own lasers, giving engineers end-to-end ownership from component to fielded system. Small, expert, fast-moving team in Huntsville, AL — one of the nation's fastest-growing aerospace and defense hubs. Career growth through hands-on work across the full product lifecycle: concept, prototype, integration, field test, and production. Competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package — see Compensation & Benefits below.

Req Benefits:

Pay Range:

The pay range on this posting applies to the role in the primary location specified. If the candidate would ultimately work outside of the primary location posted, the applicable range could differ. Actual starting pay is determined by a number of factors including relevant skills, qualifications, and experience.

Other Compensation:

Employees in this role are eligible for additional rewards which could include: Annual Discretionary Bonus or Sales Bonus as

Applicable Benefits Provided:

All Regular

• US employees receive: Paid vacation time accrued based on years of service Paid sick time 12 (twelve) Paid Holidays Each Calendar Year

•Prorated for reduced hour schedules

Additional Benefits Offered:

IPG also offers access to: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with options for HSA/FSA Dependent Care FSA Paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance Short-term and Long-term Disability insurance 401(k) plan with Company matching Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Tuition Reimbursement Program Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Adoption Assistance Pet Insurance Parental Bonding Leave Bright Horizons Backup Care Bright Horizons College Coach

•Benefits eligibility may differ by program for reduced hour schedules. Deadline and How to Apply This job posting will remain active until a candidate is identified and/or the Company rescinds the job posting. For full consideration, please click on the link to apply.