Sr. Manager, Laser Systems Engineer

Coherent - Dayton, OH

Full-time - Senior

Dayton, OH

Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing

About the position

The Sr. Manager, Laser Systems Engineer will lead a technical team in the design, development, and implementation of new laser products, particularly for directed-energy applications. This role requires a deep understanding of laser physics and engineering, as well as strong leadership skills to guide engineering efforts and support business development initiatives. The position involves significant collaboration with program management and operations personnel, ensuring compliance with customer specifications and technical feasibility.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical team in engineering activities for new product design and development.
• Apply systems-engineering principles to develop system requirements and designs.
• Support program management and operations as the technical lead on projects.
• Ensure design concepts comply with customer specifications and are implementable.
• Guide product acceptance testing, qualification testing, and troubleshooting efforts.
• Exhibit expertise in high-average-power lasers and related technologies.
• Plan R&D projects and troubleshoot critical processes.
• Serve as a spokesperson for new business opportunities and customer interface.
• Lead and write technical proposals for new business development.
• Provide guidance and mentoring to the engineering team.

Requirements

• Minimum B.S. in engineering field or applied physics; M.S. or Ph.D. preferred.
• Typically requires 12 years of relevant experience or equivalent education and work experience.
• Requires 7 years of managerial and leadership experience.
• Strong technical background in lasers and laser technology, especially high energy CW lasers.
• Experience with systems engineering practices for new product design and development lifecycle.
• Familiarity with integration and testing of complex laser systems.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with executing Department of Defense Contracts as Prime contractor or major Subcontractor.
• Experience in business development and customer engagement.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation program
• Career development opportunities
• Stability and growth within the company