Optical Engineer
€44,000 - €62,000 per year
Key Skills
Job Description
Salary: 44-62k Experience: 0-4 years Start Date: Immediate About LPS We provide rail operators with laser-based rail cleaning systems that reduce disruptions, improve safety and lower environmental impact. Our team is a mix of experienced engineering and software development professionals, dedicated to addressing low adhesion challenges through innovation, collaboration and commitment to quality. Our ‘LaserTrain’ product can clean autonomously at speeds up to 75 mph without relying on consumable products like water or sand, contributing to significant reductions in downtime and enhanced safety across railway networks during critical slip-slide seasons. At present, we have 4 systems commercially active in the US and ambitious plans to expand our cleaning fleet across Europe and the UK in coming years. In addition, we are developing our Track Contamination Detector product. About The Role Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands Team Size: 3 | Reports to: Tim van Leent Visa Requirements: You have an EU passport or can travel to the EU, UK and USA As an Optical Engineer at LPS, your primary focus will encompass the design, simulation, and testing of high-power optical setups employed for laser ablation. Key items you will be investigating are: Can/should we increase our depth of focus and implementation strategies. Methods to mitigate thermal influences Exploring techniques for measuring the focus position of the ablation laser while driving 60mph+ Improvements in laser safety You will be enhancing the reliability and effectiveness of the LaserTrain systems, and will be actively involved in the installation, testing, and maintenance of the systems. This involves visiting clients in the US/EU for up to two months each year. Responsibilities Collaborating directly with our lead developers and CTO. Designing, simulating, building, and characterizing optical assemblies for high-power lasers. Work with the mechanical team to develop optical packaging. Conducting quality control for optical systems. Provide essential support for future certification processes for EU LaserTrain models, particularly regarding laser safety. Own the installation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of LaserTrain systems at our clients (USA/EU) during the autumn. Requirements Completed a technical education in Physics, Photonics, or similar Comfortable solving optical engineering challenges independently. Experience with optical simulations, particularly with tools like Zemax. Proficiency in automating test and measurement setups. Programming experience, especially with languages such as Python, MATLAB, or LabView. Familiarity with multi-kilowatt laser systems is a definite advantage. Knowledge of systems-engineering and certification processes is a pro. Ability to articulate solutions to team members outside of your field. Clear and effective communication skills in English; French is an advantage. What We Offer The opportunity to be part of an ambitious, fun and dynamic team, with a pleasant informal and international working atmosphere. Staff are compensated for daily commutes, receive 32 holiday days per year, and are enrolled in the company pension scheme. LPS is a fast growing and disruptive laser technology company that offers huge opportunities for personal development and growth as the business expands. We can provide a working visa for the Netherlands.
Core Responsibilities
Design, simulate, build, and characterize high-power optical assemblies for laser ablation, while improving focus, thermal performance, measurement methods, and laser safety. Support quality control, certification, and the installation, maintenance, and ongoing improvement of LaserTrain systems at client sites in the US and Europe.
Requirements
A technical education in Physics, Photonics, or a related field is required, along with the ability to solve optical engineering challenges independently. Candidates should have experience with optical simulation, automated testing and measurement, and programming; familiarity with multi-kilowatt lasers and systems engineering or certification is advantageous.
Benefits
- Commuting Allowance
- 32 Days Of Holiday Per Year
- Company Pension Scheme
- Personal Development And Growth Opportunities
About Laser Precision Solutions (LPS)
Industry: Industrial Machinery Manufacturing
Company size: 11-50 employees
At LPS, we're dedicated to revolutionizing the railway industry through advanced laser technology. Focused on addressing slip-slide during autumn, our flagship product 'LaserTrain' utilizes laser technology to deep clean railheads, ensuring optimal COF levels for train operations. Recent enhancements, achieving cleaning speeds of 60mph, have garnered industry recognition. Our comprehensive cleaning solution currently offers two LaserTrain model types adaptable to individual rail network needs, effectively removing leaves, debris, rust, and oil residue, ensuring improved traction and safety for trains and passengers. The Track Contamination Detector (TCD) empowers railway operators to monitor contamination levels in real-time, providing insights for a tailored cleaning approach. Founded in 2016 with headquarters in Amsterdam, LPS currently operates in the USA, serving MTA Long Island Railroad, Metro North Railroad and Keolis Boston Commuter Services. In 2023, Metro North received the APTA Gold Award for Rail Safety, for successfully deploying LaserTrain cleaning at 100 km/h during peak hours. Our international team of developers and engineers are hands-on and collaborative. Innovation, collaboration, and commitment to quality are not just concepts for us; they define our success. During peak season (October to December), relevant functions engage with clients in the USA. The rest of the year offers a hybrid work environment, with a three days per week in the office. No dress code is applied, but proper PPE is a must in the workshop and on location. Join our journey: Whether you're a railway operator seeking efficiency or a professional wanting to contribute to our advancements, we want to hear from you! Contact us at [email protected] To stay up to date with the latest LPS news, innovations and career opportunities, follow us on LinkedIn.