Mechanical Engineer / Control Account Manager

Job Summary

xLight is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to lead the development, specification, sourcing and installation/integration of critical accelerator components for xLight’s Free-electron laser based light source. This individual will be responsible not only for the mechanical design and analysis of complex components but also for managing scope, cost, and schedule as a Control Account Manager within an Earned Value Management System (EVMS) environment.

Relevant experience with semiconductor manufacturing, accelerator facility, Department of Defense, or Department of Energy National Laboratory (synchrotron, free-electron laser, fusion, etc.) is advantageous to the successful candidate.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design, model, and analyze accelerator components such as cryogenic systems, cavity structures, vacuum systems, supports, and alignment mechanisms.
• Develop 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and assembly documentation compliant with ASME and industry standards.
• Collaborate with physicists, RF engineers, cryogenic engineers, and fabricators to translate high-level requirements into engineered hardware.
• Support prototype builds, testing, and troubleshooting of superconducting accelerator assemblies.
• Drive configuration control and technical data package creation throughout the product lifecycle.

Control Account Management (CAM) Responsibilities:

• Serve as Control Account Manager for assigned technical scope under EVMS processes.
• Develop, maintain, and report on cost accounts, schedules, budgets, and performance metrics.
• Generate Basis of Estimates (BOEs) and support proposals for new project work.
• Identify risks, develop mitigation plans, and ensure timely and cost-effective execution.
• Interface regularly with program management, finance, quality, and procurement teams.

Project & Team Collaboration:

• Lead design reviews, technical presentations, and cross-disciplinary working groups.
• Coordinate with vendors and manufacturing partners to ensure accurate fabrication of precision components.
• Support continuous improvement in engineering workflows, documentation, and production processes.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
• 10 years of experience with complex, multidisciplinary systems (accelerators, photon beamlines, or semiconductor tools).
• Knowledge of superconducting RF accelerators, cryogenics, or FEL systems.
• Strong background in system integration, reliability engineering, and technical problem solving.

DESIRED ADDITIONAL SKILLS

• Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in Physics or Engineering.
• Hands-on experience with FEL or large-scale accelerator projects (LCLS-II, XFEL, FLASH, etc.).
• Experience with optical transport systems (vacuum optics, high-power laser or EUV beamlines).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• This is a full-time appointment.
• xLight, Inc. offers a comprehensive compensation and benefit package with stock options, holidays, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance and 401(k) retirement plan with company matching.
• In compliance with federal and state equal employment opportunity laws, qualified applicants are considered for all positions at xLight without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
• This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Equal Opportunity Statement

xLight Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our policy is clear: there shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, race, religion or belief, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, or sexual orientation. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.