Optical Engineer, Service

Position: Optical Engineer, Service and Applications

We are seeking a highly motivated, entrepreneurially spirited optical engineer. As a key technical team member you will own and drive the development of our growing service business.

This position combines technical hands-on work, communication with customers and service business development. It requires an optical engineering background to build strong laser product expertise, excellent communication skills and an entrepreneurial spirit to expand our service business.

The hands-on technical side of this position includes field service, system installation, troubleshooting, customer application support and technical consultations. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable working in a laboratory or at a customer facility. At the core of this position is the ownership of our service business and the personal drive to help customers accomplishing their research or engineering goals.

The key for succeeding together with our customers is the implementation of advanced photonics and laser technologies to enhance their application. This role offers a unique opportunity to work directly with researchers, engineers, and industrial users while contributing to customer success, long-term partnerships, and the continued expansion of the business.

As an Optical Engineer, Service and Applications, you will work in a small evolving team to understand technical customer requirements, develop new business opportunities, support sales activities, and help shape strategic growth initiatives. We work closely with several manufacturers on technical development, product distribution, customer support, and service projects. Our portfolio includes nonlinear optics instruments, laser diagnostics, UV lasers, and ultrafast laser systems.

These technologies support applications in spectroscopy, microscopy, life sciences, quantum technologies, advanced manufacturing, and biochemical analysis.

Based in the Vancouver, WA area, you will enjoy a flexible and unique work environment with significant opportunities for professional growth. We are looking for someone interested in a long-term career path that begins with developing deep technical expertise and evolves into greater responsibility and leadership. You will be supported by experienced business professionals locally, as well as technical experts from our manufacturing partners around the world.

Key Responsibilities Field Service & Installation

• Perform on-site installation, commissioning, and acceptance testing of laser and photonic instrumentation.
• Execute preventive maintenance, calibration, repairs, and system upgrades.
• Diagnose and resolve optical, electrical, software, and mechanical issues in the field.
• Document service activities and maintain detailed records of customer interactions and system performance.
• Coordinate with internal engineering and manufacturing teams to resolve complex technical issues.

Technical Applications Support

• Assist customers with system integration, optical alignment, performance optimization, and application development.
• Provide remote and on-site troubleshooting support for laser, non-linear optics and optical diagnostic systems.
• Conduct technical demonstrations and proof-of-concept evaluations.
• Develop application notes, technical documentation, and training materials.
• Build strong relationships with researchers, engineers, and technical decision-makers.
• Deliver customer training on system operation, maintenance, and best practices.
• Provide timely follow-up and ongoing support to ensure successful adoption of products and solutions.
• Act as the voice of the customer by communicating feedback, feature requests, and market insights to internal teams.

Business Development Support

• Identify opportunities for product upgrades, expansions, and complementary solutions.
• Support the sales team through technical presentations, customer visits, and product evaluations.
• Participate in trade shows, conferences, workshops, and customer meetings.
• Assist in developing strategic customer relationships that contribute to long-term business growth.
• Stay informed about industry trends, emerging applications, and competitive technologies.

Your qualifications and traits

• Excitement for laser technology and a drive to enable research and engineering
• Able to navigate a complex technical and business environment
• Committed to developing both technical expertise and business acumen
• Practical experience with optical and laser-based devices
• Master's (or higher) degree in science related to optical or laser…