Lead Laser Scientist (Fusion)

Location: Munich, Germany. Relocation support is available.

Company

hirify.global is a fusion energy startup founded in 2019, developing clean and abundant energy through laser fusion and supported by scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs in Munich and Colorado.

What you will do

• Lead and instruct a multidisciplinary team of laser scientists and engineers, setting priorities and directing day-to-day laboratory work.
• Build, align, troubleshoot, optimize, and continuously improve laser systems, diagnostics, experimental set-ups, and laboratory workflows.
• Plan and drive experimental programs through milestones, owning the stepwise build and experimental results.
• Shape system designs by translating concepts and simulation results into buildable experiments and technical decisions.
• Integrate theory, experiments, and control systems while identifying technical risks and preparing decisions at project gates.
• Manage suppliers and procurement, establish laboratory operations and laser-safety standards, document results, and communicate progress with scientific and management stakeholders.

Requirements

• PhD in physics, laser engineering, or a related field, with several years of experience in ultrafast or laser physics.
• Extensive experience designing, building, and commissioning complex optical experiments and setting up new laboratories.
• Hands-on experience with ultrafast laser sources, optical frequency combs, reference clocks, coherent laser stabilization, high-finesse optical cavities, fiber lasers and amplifiers, nonlinear frequency conversion, vacuum and vibration-isolated set-ups, and optical short-pulse diagnostics.
• Programming and data-analysis skills, such as Python, for measurement automation and analysis.
• Proven ability to plan and deliver an experimental program.
• Experience leading, coordinating, and mentoring an interdisciplinary team with accountable, hands-on scientific leadership.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a structured approach to complex technical challenges.
• High personal drive, discipline, and assertiveness combined with a collaborative working style.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

Nice to have

• German language skills.

Culture & Benefits

• Purpose-driven work on clean, safe, and abundant fusion energy.
• Professional learning and development budget.
• Public transport subsidy, phone bill reimbursement, employee incentive program, company pension plan, and Wellpass or complimentary private health insurance.
• 30 days of vacation plus an additional half day on December 24 and 31.
• Modern office in central Munich, healthy office snacks, and regular team events.