Principal Development Engineer

Company Overview

Coherent Corp stands as a global frontrunner in photonics, specializing in advanced laser, optical, and materials technologies. We serve critical markets including semiconductor manufacturing, AI infrastructure, advanced communications, and precision industrial systems. Our Glasgow site in Scotland focuses on cutting-edge laser and ultrafast laser technologies, supporting development, manufacturing, and lifecycle support of high-performance laser systems for demanding scientific and industrial uses.

Role Summary

We seek an outstanding Principal Development Engineer with expertise in ultrafast and solid-state laser design to spearhead innovation for next-gen laser products. This role involves leading major laser subsystem or whole laser architecture projects from feasibility through product launch, collaborating across optics, mechanical, electronics, and software domains. The position demands technical leadership in experimental research, innovative solution design, hands-on lab work, mentoring engineers, and influencing development programme directions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of advanced ultrafast laser systems and critical optical components.
• Construct and optimize prototype laser breadboards to validate new technology concepts.
• Manage and interpret feasibility studies with experiment-based insights to guide engineering decisions.
• Translate laboratory prototypes into reliable, manufacturable commercial products.
• Drive technical investigations and root cause analysis to resolve complex challenges.
• Mentor engineering staff, fostering best practices and technical growth.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including optics, mechanics, electronics, software, manufacturing, and applications engineering.
• Define specifications for key laser components and participate in supplier evaluations.
• Support product lifecycle stages from development to manufacturing and customer engagement.
• Prepare and present technical documentation, reports, and project updates to stakeholders.
• Engage with global engineering colleagues to share knowledge and accelerate innovation.
• Contribute to refining engineering processes to enhance product quality and development efficiency.

Candidate Profile

• PhD or equivalent experience in design or optimization of solid-state laser systems.
• Substantial hands-on experience with diode-pumped solid-state lasers, rod, slab, or thin-disk architectures.
• Deep understanding of ultrafast laser physics, pulse generation, and optimization across bulk, fiber, or hybrid systems.
• Proven ability to build, test, and commercialize complex experimental laser setups.
• Proficiency with optical and electronic diagnostic tools such as power meters, spectrometers, autocorrelators, oscilloscopes, and spectrum analyzers.
• Familiarity with optical modeling software (e.g., Zemax) and custom numerical modeling.
• Knowledgeable in electronic control systems and high-stability optomechanics.
• Strong analytical, experimental, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication skills with aptitude for influencing multidisciplinary teams.
• Capable of juggling multiple technical priorities efficiently.

Additional Skills & Attributes

• Passion for tackling complex technical problems with scientific and engineering rigor.
• Sound and data-driven technical decision-making capabilities.
• Leadership in technical initiatives promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration.
• Adaptability and proactive attitude towards shifting project demands.
• Effective communication and presentation skills for diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational skills to balance competing priorities and tight timelines.
• Commitment to mentoring and developing engineer competencies.
• High levels of professionalism, integrity, and responsibility.
• Keen to continually learn, share expertise, and nurture an engineering culture that values excellence.

Company Values

• Integrity: fostering trust in the workplace.
• Collaboration: driving innovation through idea sharing.
• Accountability: owning processes and outcomes.
• Respect: valuing every individual.
• Enthusiasm: deriving purpose and motivation from work.

Recruitment Note

Coherent is dedicated to an inclusive hiring process and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. Internal applicants should submit a cover letter linking their skills and experience to the role requirements. Recruiter submissions will only be accepted under formal agreements with required authorizations.

About Coherent Corp

Coherent is an integrated manufacturer of lasers, engineered materials, and networking components serving industry sectors such as communications, military, life sciences, and semiconductors. The company offers career development, stability, and competitive compensation in an environment fostering high performance and growth.