Laser Applications Team Leader

Laser Applications Team Leader/Laser Process Engineer Location: Oxford Salary: Competitive + Benefits Job Type: Full-time, Permanent We are seeking an experienced Laser Applications Team Leader (Laser Process Engineer or Photonics Engineer) to lead our hands-on laser R&D, materials processing, and customer application development team. This role is ideal for an engineer with expertise in laser optics, laser–material interaction, and optical systems integration, who enjoys guiding a team while remaining actively involved in experimental work. Key Responsibilities Team Leadership & Project Management * Lead and coordinate the laser applications team, scheduling R&D and customer development projects. * Work with management, sales, and engineering teams to prioritise work and allocate resources. * Track project progress, make timely interventions, and report on R&D milestones to management. Laser Process Development * Translate customer requirements into effective laser processes (cutting, welding, drilling, marking, micromachining). * Set up and align laser and optical systems (fiber, diode, femtosecond, or UV lasers). * Analyse laser–material interactions to improve process quality, efficiency, and repeatability. * Collect data, analyse results, and produce high-quality documentation and technical reports. Customer and Applications Support * Provide technical sales support and deliver presentations or demonstrations to customers. * Collaborate with clients to optimise process parameters for their applications. System Integration & Machine Commissioning * Work with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to ensure machines meet process requirements. * Support machine commissioning, testing, and customer acceptance, including occasional international travel. Skills and Qualifications Essential: * Degree in Physics, Materials Science, Photonics, Optical Engineering, or related field. * 5+ years’ experience in laser R&D, laser processing, or optical systems engineering. * Strong knowledge of laser optics, beam delivery, and materials processing techniques. * Proven ability to develop, optimise, and lead laser processes (cutting, welding, marking, drilling). * Excellent team leadership, analytical, and documentation skills. * Effective communicator and collaborative team player. Desirable: * Master’s or PhD in a relevant technical field. * Experience in electronics, photovoltaics, or semiconductor manufacturing. * Knowledge of Chinese language advantageous. Why Join Us * Lead a skilled laser applications team working on cutting-edge laser and photonics technologies. * Combine hands-on R&D with strategic team leadership and project management. * Collaborate globally with industry-leading engineers and customers. * Contribute to technologies shaping the future of precision manufacturing and optical engineering. If you’re a motivated engineer ready to take on a leadership role in laser process development, apply today and help drive innovation in our laser applications team