CILAS designs and manufactures laser designators, adaptive optics, and optical coatings for defense and space applications, with deep roots in large government science programs. The tech stack (C, C++, MATLAB, Simulink, Visual Studio) and project focus reflect hardware-heavy engineering: laser power architecture, optical servo control, and integration into complex systems. Hiring velocity is decelerating while manufacturing dominates the department mix—a signal the company is optimizing production efficiency and manufacturability rather than scaling new product lines.
CILAS is a French laser and optics specialist founded in 1966, now part of the Lumibird group (alongside HMS Laser, a joint venture with MBDA and Safran Electronics & Défense). The company develops and manufactures laser designation systems for precision munitions, surveillance and detection equipment for critical infrastructure protection, helicopter landing aids for naval platforms, and optical components including thin-film coatings and adaptive optics mirrors. CILAS also produces high-power laser amplifiers for the Laser Mégajoule (LMJ) scientific program. Operations span defense, security, space, and industrial laser sectors across 201–500 employees based in Orléans, France.
Core stack includes C, C++, MATLAB, Simulink, Visual Studio, and Windows. Systems interface via TCP/IP, RS-232, and USB. GitLab supports version control. No cloud or modern DevOps tooling appears in active use.
Active projects span laser power architecture development, optical-electronic servo optimization, Laser Mégajoule production and maintenance, adaptive optics integration, and lean manufacturing implementation to improve production cadence and reduce costs.
CILAS is actively hiring in France only. Current open roles total 22 across engineering (10), manufacturing (8), sales (2), and operations (1), with most positions at senior and junior levels.
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