Laser Engineer

We are seeking a skilled and hands-on Laser Applications Engineer to join our client based in Oxford supporting their R&D team. This role is centred around the development and optimisation of laser-based manufacturing processes to meet a wide range of customer requirements. You'll work on the front line of technical innovation, designing experiments, interacting directly with customers, and playing a key role in delivering high-performance laser systems for industrial use. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives in a practical, collaborative environment and is passionate about applying laser technology to real-world challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Laser Process Development: Conduct hands-on experiments to develop and refine laser processes for various materials and applications. Analyse results to optimise performance and repeatability.
• Experimental Design: Plan and execute structured experiments to establish process parameters that meet technical and commercial specifications.
• Customer Engagement: Work directly with customers to understand their technical requirements. This may include reviewing engineering drawings, reading technical documents, and translating needs into feasible solutions.
• Data Management & Reporting: Maintain detailed records of all test procedures and results for traceability and future replication. Prepare comprehensive technical reports summarising activities, conclusions, and recommendations.
• Sample and Production Work: For small-scale orders, produce sample parts in-house. For larger quantities, develop standardised, documented procedures that can be executed by production staff or machine operators.
• System Commissioning: Support the setup, alignment, and testing of laser systems prior to customer delivery. This may include working with a multidisciplinary team to ensure system readiness.
• On-Site Support & Travel: Travel internationally to install, maintain, or troubleshoot laser systems at customer sites. This will involve both technical support and customer relationship management.
• Cross-functional Support: Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure the delivery of high-performing, reliable laser solutions.

Required Skills and Experience

• Education: A degree (BSc or higher) in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline. Practical experience working with lasers is highly desirable.
• Experience: A minimum of 3 years' experience in a technical, industrial setting-preferably involving lasers, optics, or precision engineering.
• Technical Knowledge: In-depth understanding of laser principles, systems, and applications. Experience integrating motion control hardware (e.g. CNC stages, galvanometers). Familiarity with CNC programming and CAD/CAM systems (advantageous). Understanding of materials science and how different materials interact with lasers.
• Software Proficiency: Competence in Microsoft Word and Excel for report writing and data analysis. Basic programming ability for automation or control tasks is beneficial.
• Quality Focus: Strong awareness of quality control standards and attention to detail in process documentation and output.

Key Competencies

• Adaptability: Able to adjust to changing priorities, manage competing demands, and stay productive in a fast-paced R&D environment.
• Problem Solving: Analytical thinker who can troubleshoot complex issues and identify effective solutions.
• Innovation: Creative mindset with a passion for improving processes and developing novel solutions.
• Teamwork: Collaborates well with others, values diverse perspectives, and contributes to a supportive team culture.
• Professionalism: Maintains high standards under pressure, respects others, and follows through on commitments.
• Customer Focus: Understands the importance of customer satisfaction and delivers high-quality service and communication.

If you are interested in the above, then please apply and someone will come back to you.