Optical Simulation Scientist

Focused Energy is a fusion energy startup with the goal of generating unlimited clean energy to responsibly meet future global demand. The founders include two highly renowned scientists and a long-time entrepreneur and founder of several successful startups. With the use and commercialization of laser-induced inertial fusion, a clean and highly efficient power generation technology is coming within reach, suitable to ensure a secure and scalable future energy supply.

We are seeking an Optical Simulation Engineer/Scientist to drive the development of advanced modeling tools for high-energy laser amplifiers. As part of our Optical Modelling group, you will enhance our Multiphysics amplifier optical prediction toolkit, supporting the research, design, and optimization of high-energy, high-average-power laser systems. Your work will tackle complex challenges, including optical illumination, laser amplification, thermo-mechanical effects, and fluid dynamics, directly influencing next-generation amplifier performance.

This role is pivotal in developing kilojoule-class, diode-pumped laser systems with high efficiency to power commercial fusion plants. Your contributions—ranging from simulation tool development to experimental validation—will push the boundaries of laser technology, advancing the capabilities of inertial fusion energy (IFE).

What you'll do:

• Research and Development: Develop novel optical designs and simulations for high-energy and/or high-average power laser systems and/or sub-systems. 

• Laser Amplifier Design: Design and analyze laser amplifier systems and sub-systems, ensuring they meet the highest standards of performance and reliability. Program, model, and calculate laser system performance and efficiency.  

• Predictive Modelling: Develop robust analytical and numerical tools for development of optical subsystem product development.   

• Validation and Verification: Perform detailed validations of prototypes to improve predictive capabilities and continuously improve the system performance  

As an Optical Simulation Engineer/Scientist, you will work with a wide range of laser systems and technologies, including: 

• Pumping Technologies: Develop systems utilizing both flash-lamp and diode pumping methods. 

• Thermal Management: Develop robust, efficient thermal management solutions for high average power lasers and critical subcomponents 

• Energy, Power: Design and optimize systems for multi-kilojoule (kJ) energy, multi-kilowatt (kW) average-power, laser systems. 
  

Who you are:

• Master's or PhD degree in Optics, Computational Physics, Applied Math or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, with advanced knowledge of complex physics, optics, or laser systems. 

• 5+ years of experience in creating Optical Simulations Tools for Product Development 

• Proven track record of developing tools to increase predictive capabilities for multi-disciplinary, large-scale R&D projects  

• Modelling and Characterization of Laser Components including aberrations (thermo- and elasto-optic, aero-optical), losses, scattering, spectral dependencies, birefringence, and polarization effects 

• Expertise in developing multi-physics simulations to assess performance of complex optical systems (COMSOL, ANSYS, NASTRAN, or similar) 

• Expertise in Optical Engineering Tools (Zemax, FRED, CodeV, Quadoa or similar) for illumination modelling and optical system design 

• Ability to write clear documentation and implement proper version controls for collaboration   

• Capability to work independently and collaboratively within a team. 

• Proven track record of innovative problem-solving and system optimization. 

• Advanced written and verbal communication skills in English are necessary to deliver presentations, prepare written reports, explain technical information, and provide advice to project sponsors and external collaborators. 

• Preferred: Familiarity with Monte Carlo techniques  

• Preferred: Experience with HPC Batch Schedulers and Automation Scripts (Python, MATLAB, etc.)  

• Preferred: Experience with Programming (C/C++, Java, or similar) and working knowledge of parallelization frameworks (e.g. MPI, CUDA)  

• Preferred: Experienced with MDO workflows (UQ, DoE, ML Training) and metamodeling emulation techniques (ROM, Surrogate Training, Digital Twin) 

• Preferred: Hands-on R&D Testing experience with laser amplifiers and optomechanical assemblies 

Focused Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Focused Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Certain roles may be eligible for incentive compensation, equity, benefits.