About this role
Focused Energy is a fusion energy startup with the goal of generating unlimited clean energy to responsibly meet future global demand. 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 Engineer for our Digital Twin efforts to develop, validate, and apply advanced optical and multiphysics simulation tools that form the backbone of our laser Digital Twin. As part of our Laser team, you will integrate optical and multiphysics models into a coherent, predictive framework that supports system design, optimization, and experimental validation of our laser point designs. Your work will directly reduce design risk, accelerate development cycles, and enable system-level optimization of the high-energy laser systems powering our fusion program.
What You’ll DoDevelop and maintain integrated optical and multiphysics simulation frameworks (optical, thermal, mechanical coupling) for Digital Twin applications
Model complex laser amplifier architectures, including gain media, pump geometries, and thermal effects
Build, integrate, and continuously refine the Digital Twin environment for system-level prediction and optimization
Validate simulation models against experimental data and perform sensitivity and uncertainty analysis
Develop reduced-order and surrogate models for efficient Digital Twin deployment
Collaborate with optical engineers, laser physicists, and experimental teams to translate simulation results into engineering design decisions
Interface with Digital Twin architects, systems engineers, and program management to ensure models meet project requirements
Who You AreRequirementsMaster’s or PhD in optics, computational physics, applied mathematics, or a related field
Strong experience in optical and multiphysics simulation of complex physical systems
Ability to couple multiple physical domains (optical, thermal, mechanical, fluid) into coherent system-level models
Solid understanding of laser and optical physics (propagation, amplification, spectral and nonlinear effects)
Experience in model validation, uncertainty quantification, and data-driven refinement
Strong programming skills in Python, MATLAB, C/C++, or similar
Experience with simulation tools such as COMSOL, ANSYS, Zemax, CodeV, or FRED
Ability to communicate complex simulation results clearly to non-specialists
Strong collaboration skills across interdisciplinary teams
Structured and analytical problem-solving approach
Ability to work independently while aligning with broader system goals
Advanced written and verbal communication skills in English
PreferredProven experience developing and maintaining Digital Twin models or equivalent system-level simulation frameworks, including data integration and validation
Preferred: Experience translating simulation outputs into predictive tools for system design and performance forecasting
Familiarity with MDO workflows (UQ, DoE, ML training) and metamodelling / surrogate techniques (ROM, Digital Twin)
Experience with HPC batch schedulers and automation scripts
Familiarity with Monte Carlo techniques
Interest in fusion energy, high-energy-density physics, or advanced laser technologies
Hands-on R&D testing experience with laser systems or optomechanical assemblies
Proactive approach to improving simulation workflows and methodologies
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.