Laser Engineer

The Opportunity:

As an global leader in defence electronics, is offering an exciting opportunity for Laser Engineers to join our team. Based in Edinburgh, you'll be working at the forefront of laser development, contributing to mission-critical systems for defence and aerospace applications across land, sea, and air.

The Edinburgh site is renowned for its expertise in the design and manufacture of high-performance lasers and electro-optical systems. You will have the chance to work on a diverse range of laser technologies, including targeting lasers, countermeasure systems, and electro-optical imaging. As part of a world-class engineering team, you will be developing state-of-the-art laser systems for some of the most advanced defence programmes globally.

This is a unique opportunity to join Leonardo during a period of technology innovation and business growth. With a strong focus on the future, we are designing and manufacturing the next generation of compact, high-performance laser systems for cutting-edge defence applications.

The Role
As a Laser Engineer, you will be part of a specialist team responsible for the research, design, development, and manufacturing of advanced laser systems. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Leading the design and development of laser systems, from concept through to production.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams, including optics, electronics, and mechanical engineers, to ensure seamless integration of laser systems into larger defence platforms.
• Conducting detailed design analysis, performance simulations, and prototyping to develop innovative laser solutions.
• Engaging with customers and suppliers to ensure the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective laser systems that meet the needs of our global defence partners.
• Supporting the testing, alignment, and validation of laser systems, working closely with manufacturing teams to ensure successful product delivery.
• Keeping up to date with the latest advancements in laser technology and applying new methods to improve system performance and reliability.
• Contributing to the definition of system architecture, developing detailed specifications, and supporting technical proposals.
• Taking ownership of work packages and delivering on time, within budget, and to the required standard.

This is a hands-on, technical role where you will have the opportunity to make a real impact on the future of laser technology. You'll be working in a dynamic, collaborative environment with access to cutting-edge facilities and resources.

What You'll Ideally Bring:
To be successful in this role, you will need the following skills and experience:

• Proven experience in laser design and development, with a focus on delivering high-performance laser systems.
• Knowledge of laser physics, laser-material interactions, and electro-optical system integration.
• Practical experience in laser system alignment, testing, and validation, ideally in a defence or aerospace environment.
• Experience with commercial tools for laser modelling and simulation.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to innovate within complex engineering challenges.
• The ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary project team and communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• A good understanding of the mechanical and electrical aspects of laser systems and how they interact with broader defence platforms.
• A track record of delivering laser systems from concept through to manufacture.

Qualifications

• Essential: A degree in a relevant field such as Physics, Electrical Engineering, or Optics.
• Desirable: A Master's or PhD with a focus on laser technology or a related field.

Benefits:

• Flexible Working: Hybrid working options, flexible hours, and part-time opportunities available.
• Company Funded Benefits: Private healthcare, dental schemes, lifestyle benefits, and an annual allowance of 500 for flexible benefits.
• Holidays: 25 days plus bank holidays, with options to buy/sell leave and accrue up to 12 flexi leave days per year.
• Pension: Award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Wellbeing: Access to mental health support, financial wellbeing services, and diversity & inclusion networks.
• Lifestyle: Discounted gym membership and cycle-to-work scheme.
• Training & Development: Free access to over 4000 online courses via Coursera to support your personal and professional growth.
• Referral Incentive: You can earn a reward for successfully referring a friend or family member.
• Bonus Scheme: Available to employees at management level and below.

Even If you feel like you don't meet every qualification, we encourage you to reach out an apply.