About Aalyria:

Aalyria is a leading technology company that supplies laser communications technology and temporospatial software-defined networking platforms to the aerospace industry. With technology acquired from Google, Aalyria is at the forefront of innovation in satellite and airborne mesh networks, as well as cislunar and deep-space communications. We are revolutionizing the orchestration and management of planetary mesh networks using any radio or optical spectrum, any orbit, and any hardware across land, sea, air, and space.

Role Overview:

Come join Tightbeam, a team of experienced and knowledgeable engineers that are building new cutting-edge optical communication technology for land, sea, and air. We are a team of doers, working hands-on with physical systems that are deployed and tested in real-world field environments.

As a Senior Systems Engineer, you will play a central role in the design, integration, and testing of complex laser communication systems. This cross-disciplinary role spans optical, mechanical, electrical and software domains, requiring a strong systems mindset and a deep understanding of how components work together to create high-performance, reliable and safe solutions. You’ll work side-by-side with domain experts to ensure Tightbeam systems meet demanding technical, environmental and regulatory requirements. Your work will directly impact the future of high-speed communications across the most challenging and dynamic environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the integration of laser-based communication systems, for both defense and commercial applications, across optical, electronic, and mechanical components.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to ensure system reliability, performance, and safety.
• Apply thermodynamics, CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics), and FEA (Finite Element Analysis) modeling to system design and validation.
• Support environmental testing efforts, including compliance with MIL-STD-810 standards.
• Conduct system-level testing, performance analysis, and validation against aerospace, defense, and Laser Safety Review Board requirements.
• Contribute to cybersecurity implementation and ensure systems meet applicable defense regulations.
• Evaluate emerging technologies to improve system capabilities and performance.
• Maintain clear documentation of system architecture, configurations, test results, and operational procedures.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Systems Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with laser systems, optics, fiber optics, and/or photonics.
• Familiarity with SolidWorks or equivalent CAD platforms.
• Working knowledge of defense standards, military-grade laser safety regulations, and aerospace industry testing practices.
• Experience with NPI (New Product Introduction) processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; comfortable working in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary startup environment.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across technical domains.
• Active or eligible for security clearance (required for certain projects).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with automation tools, scripting, or optical simulation software is a plus.

What We Offer:

• Innovative Environment: Work at a cutting-edge company shaping the future of aerospace communications.
• Impactful Work: Directly contribute to critical national security programs and initiatives.
• Growth Opportunities: Expand your career with opportunities for professional development and advancement.
• Inclusive Culture: Be part of a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive workplace where your contributions matter.
• Flexibility: Flexible working arrangements including hybrid remote/in-office schedules.
• Compensation and Equity: Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits (401(k), dental, vision, health, life insurance), paid time off, and equity options.

ITAR/EAR Requirements:

This position involves access to export-controlled information. To comply with U.S. government export regulations, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

(A) Qualify as a U.S. person, which includes:

• U.S. citizen or national
• U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder)
• Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157
• Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158

(B) Be eligible to access export-controlled information without requiring an export authorization.

(C) Be eligible and reasonably likely to obtain the necessary export authorization from the appropriate U.S. government agency.

The company reserves the right to decline pursuing an export licensing process for legitimate business-related reasons.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

Aalyria is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Qualified applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.