Principal Mechanical Engineer - Defense
nLIGHTWashington, United States
Posted January 22, 2026
125000 - 165000 USD
Full Time
About the Company
nLIGHT, Inc. specializes in high‑power laser solutions for mission‑critical directed energy, optical sensing, and advanced manufacturing. The company offers a broad portfolio that includes high‑power fiber lasers, diode lasers, active and passive fiber systems, as well as industrial lasers for cutting, welding, and additive manufacturing. With a workforce of around 800 employees and operations spanning the United States, Europe, and Asia, nLIGHT combines cutting‑edge technology with global reach to deliver precision and reliability in demanding applications. Its reputation as a leading provider of robust, high‑performance laser systems distinguishes it in the competitive laser industry.
Job Description
nLIGHT is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to provide technical leadership in the development of high-power fiber laser amplifiers and directed-energy laser systems.
Requirements
- Lead mechanical and opto-mechanical architecture and design
- Drive design trade studies
- Define mechanical requirements, interfaces, and system layouts
- Apply DFX principles and manufacturing best practices
- Lead or review engineering analyses
- Define and oversee design verification, acceptance testing, and environmental qualification strategies
- Provide technical oversight for procurement, assembly, integration, and test of prototype and production hardware
- Develop tooling, fixtures, and process equipment strategies
- Support system-level integration and testing
- Mentor junior engineers
Benefits
- Target Cash Bonus of 10%
- Eligible for Restricted Stock Unit grants
- 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
- 10 paid Holidays
- Eligible for health benefits
- Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits
- 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