Senior Mechanical Engineer - Defense
nLIGHT, Inc.Washington, United States
Posted January 22, 2026
105000 - 130000 USD year
About the Company
nLIGHT, Inc., headquartered in Camas, Washington, is a leading provider of high-power lasers for mission-critical applications including directed energy, optical sensing, and advanced manufacturing. The company offers a comprehensive range of laser technologies, including fiber lasers, diode lasers, and industrial solutions, serving sectors such as material processing, semiconductor manufacturing, and welding. With operations in the United States, Europe, and Asia, nLIGHT employs approximately 800 people and is distinguished by its innovative approach to laser technology.
Job Description
nLIGHT is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to contribute to the development of high-power fiber laser amplifiers and directed-energy laser systems. This role requires strong opto-mechanical design skills and hands-on experience developing rugged, production-ready hardware for demanding military environments.
Requirements
- Design and develop mechanical and opto-mechanical subsystems for high-power fiber laser amplifiers used in directed-energy applications
- Contribute to mechanical architecture and detailed design to meet performance, SWaP, environmental, reliability, and cost requirements
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define system layouts, interfaces, and product requirements
- Apply DFX principles to develop manufacturable, cost-effective designs suitable for prototype and production builds
- Perform engineering analyses including thermal management, heat transfer, structural integrity, vibration, shock, and materials selection
- Support planning and execution of design verification, acceptance testing, and environmental qualification testing
- Participate in procurement, assembly, integration, and test of prototype and production hardware
- Design and support tooling, fixtures, and process equipment for manufacturing
- Support system-level integration and testing activities as required
Benefits
- Target Cash Bonus of 6% of earned wages
- Eligible for Restricted Stock Unit grants
- 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
- 10 paid Holidays
- Eligible for health benefits on the 1st day of the month after your start date
- Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits, including prescription and orthodontia with employee-paid premiums as low as $40.00 per pay period
- Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan
- 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
- Company paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, and Life & AD&D Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Aflac Supplemental Insurance
- Paid Bereavement Leave and Jury Duty
- Tuition Assistance Program
- Pet Insurance