Senior Laser Engineer in Edinburgh

Leonardo Edinburgh has a fantastic new opportunity for a Laser Engineer wishing to join a world‑leading Advanced Laser Targeting Designator Programme. We are currently seeking a Senior Laser Engineer to join our Advanced Targeting Sector in Edinburgh. Your focus will be to support the design, technical maturation and maintenance of a range of ground‑based and airborne compact lasers. This role will include tasks such as laser modelling, beam conditioning, alignment, problem solving, supplier engagement and system verification.

This position has been created during an exciting period of technological development and business growth, with Leonardo at the forefront of designing and manufacturing the next generation of compact and sophisticated lasers for emerging defence applications. By accepting this challenge, you will have the chance to contribute directly to sovereign defence technologies that enhance operational effectiveness in contested environments, while collaborating with a growing team of experienced laser engineers.

Responsibilities

• Design and maturation of a next‑generation compact laser system including system architecture definition, design and specification of laser components and system performance simulations.
• Providing capability in modelling using tools such as Matlab, COMSOL and RP Fiber.
• Development of test processes for Engineering and/or Technicians to build and align the next generation of laser systems.
• Engaging with various other disciplines such as mechanical and manufacturing engineers to ensure laser systems are designed for efficient manufacture.
• Develop work packages to support de‑risking of new technology and sub‑components within the laser system.
• Leading multidisciplinary teams in root‑cause investigations into laser components within the laser system.
• Engaging with procurement to identify new suppliers or support supplier quality issues.

What You’ll Bring

• Experience working in a laser product development and/or laser applied research environment.
• Previous ownership of a laser design which has been manufactured (in one‑off or volume production).
• Experience in the design, characterisation and manufacture of lasers using appropriate commercial tools.
• An advanced understanding of laser physics and a detailed understanding of solid‑state laser engineering.
• An appreciation of the mechanical and electrical design aspects of laser systems.
• Experience working in a laser research and development or manufacturing environment.
• Experience working in a multidisciplinary team and engagement within the wider optical supply chain.
• Proven analytical, modelling and laboratory skills.

This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a passion for laser photonics and willingness to learn.

Security Clearance

This role is subject to pre‑employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, which could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).

Benefits

• Time to Recharge – Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi‑days each year.
• Secure your Future – Benefit from our award‑winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Your Wellbeing Matters – Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee‑led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
• Rewarding Performance – All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
• Never Stop Learning – Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
• Refer a friend – Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
• Tailored Perks – Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
• Flexible working – Flexible hours with hybrid working options.

For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website. Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.

At Leonardo, we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.

Be part of something bigger – apply now!

Primary Location: GB – Edinburgh

Contract Type: Permanent

Hybrid Working: Hybrid