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Entry Level Laser Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thorlabs

Photonics Support Engineer I

Newton, NJ · On-site

The Photonics Support Engineer I is responsible for providing entry level technical support by ... Lab experience with optics, mechanics, lasers, and electrical components a plus. Education: • BSc ...

Thorlabs

Photonics Support Engineer I

Newton, NJ · On-site

The Photonics Support Engineer I is responsible for providing entry level technical support by ... Lab experience with optics, mechanics, lasers, and electrical components a plus. Education: BSc ...

IPG Photonics

Operator I- Cleanroom

Oxford, MA

IPG Photonics is revolutionizing the laser industry as the pioneering developer and leading producer of fiber lasers and amplifiers. Headquartered in Marlborough, MA, IPG has over 4,800 employees in ...

IKERD

Summer Intern: Scan Engineer/Technician 1

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Laser Scan Engineer/Technician 1 (LS-1) Position Description An LS-1 performs entry-level field and data processing work. An LS-1 is responsible for maintenance and operation of measurement data ...

IPG Photonics

Operator I- Cleanroom

Oxford, MA

$17.49 - $23.18/hr

IPG Photonics is revolutionizing the laser industry as the pioneering developer and leading producer of fiber lasers and amplifiers. Headquartered in Marlborough, MA, IPG has over 4,800 employees in ...

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Design Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

We are seeking an Entry-Level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... laser cut parts, and welding or bonding of components. Responsibilities * Communication with ...

Southeastern Tool & Die

Be Seen First

CNC Programmer

Fayetteville, NC · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

CNC Programmer This is an entry-level position with training provided. About Us Locally owned ... This role is critical in supporting daily production by programming CNC lasers, press brakes, and ...

Sightpath Medical

MoFe Engineer

Frederick, MD · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Whether you're an entry-level candidate or bring years of experience, we offer knowledge ... Gain hands-on experience with the latest in ophthalmic laser technology. We provide all the ...

Sightpath Medical

MoFe Engineer

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Whether you're an entry-level candidate or bring years of experience, we offer knowledge ... Gain hands-on experience with the latest in ophthalmic laser technology. We provide all the ...

Sightpath Medical

MoFe Engineer

Haddonfield, NJ · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Whether you're an entry-level candidate or bring years of experience, we offer knowledge ... Gain hands-on experience with the latest in ophthalmic laser technology. We provide all the ...

Sightpath Medical

MoFe Engineer

Erie, PA · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Whether you're an entry-level candidate or bring years of experience, we offer knowledge ... Gain hands-on experience with the latest in ophthalmic laser technology. We provide all the ...

Balfour Beatty

VDC ENGINEER

San Diego, CA · On-site

$8.0K - $90K/yr

The VDC Engineer is an entry-level position in the Construction Technology (ConTech) group, focused ... Assists in laser scanning, processing and analyzing of scan data and photogrammetry imaging.

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All JobsEntry Level Laser Engineer Jobs

Entry Level Laser Engineer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$112.1K

$188K

How much do entry level laser engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level laser engineer in the United States is $112,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,500.00 and $161,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and technologies do Entry Level Laser Engineers typically work with in their first year?

As an Entry Level Laser Engineer, you can expect to work on projects involving the design, testing, and optimization of laser systems, often under the guidance of senior engineers. Your daily tasks may include assembling optical setups, performing alignment procedures, troubleshooting system issues, and documenting experimental results. You’ll frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, such as mechanical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing technicians, to ensure that laser components meet project specifications. This hands-on experience helps build a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of laser technology, setting the stage for future advancement.

What is the difference between Entry Level Laser Engineer vs Entry Level Optical Technician?

AspectEntry Level Laser EngineerEntry Level Optical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Physics, or related field; basic knowledge of laser systemsAssociate's or Bachelor's in optics, physics, or related; hands-on optical system experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsOptical labs, manufacturing plants, maintenance settings
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, aerospace, medical device manufacturingOptical equipment manufacturers, telecommunications, healthcare

Both roles involve working with optical systems, but Laser Engineers focus on designing and developing laser technologies, while Optical Technicians handle assembly, testing, and maintenance of optical equipment. Entry Level Laser Engineers typically require a background in engineering or physics, whereas Optical Technicians often have specialized training in optics. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right entry point in the optical industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Laser Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Laser Engineer, you need a solid understanding of optics, photonics, and laser physics, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (like Zemax or COMSOL), laboratory equipment, and safety certifications related to laser operation is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities are essential for ensuring precision in laser system development, maintaining safety, and successfully collaborating on complex technical projects.

What does an Entry Level Laser Engineer do?

An Entry Level Laser Engineer assists in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of laser systems and components. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, performing tasks such as assembling optical devices, running experiments, collecting data, and troubleshooting equipment. Their responsibilities may also include calibrating lasers, documenting procedures, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. This position is a starting point for those looking to build a career in laser technology or photonics.
More about Entry Level Laser Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Laser Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Laser Engineer job openings:
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Entry Level Laser Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Laser Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,096 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Machine Design Engineer - Entry Level

Amentum

Tullahoma, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Machine Design - Engineer I
Amentum Advanced Solutions is a performance unit of our Engineering & Technology (E&T) Line of Business. The Amentum Advanced Solutions specializes in the design, construction, and operation of unique and complex research and development facilities, including, as examples, wind tunnels (aerospace, automotive, and motorsports), rocket test stands, climatic chambers, jet engine test cells, acoustic chambers, altitude test facilities, captive trajectory systems, and nuclear facilities. Our projects span the automotive, motorsports, defense, nuclear, and aerospace markets. Recent clients include Audi, Boeing, BMW, Fiat Chrysler, Ford, Honda, General Motors, NASA, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Department of Energy, Volkswagen, and many others in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Most of your designs will be unique, and you will usually be working on several projects at one time in a dynamic, challenging, and even fun environment. Many designs are "blank sheet of paper," with few analogs or comparisons. This position will provide you with an exciting opportunity to join Machine Design projects as part of a multi-discipline team of professionals. We are looking for an entry-level or early career Mechanical Engineer with strong technical skills, academic achievement, and sense of ownership.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Projects are often complex and multi-discipline. For each assignment, Entry Level Engineers will be issued specific objectives, approaches, and possible solutions by a supervising engineer. The Junior Engineer:
  • Independently performs short duration project tasks with clearly defined requirements and goals.
  • Analyzes and/or evaluates the results of an analysis using techniques prescribed by senior engineers or supervisors.
  • Accomplishes, complete tasks of limited scope or solves problems which require investigation of a limited number of variables.
  • Prepares calculations, and assists in the preparation of, presentations and technical reports.
  • Supports interface development with other disciplines, working closely with structural, mechanical process, controls and instrumentation, and aerodynamics/fluid dynamics engineers.
  • Aids in the production of complete, detailed drawing packages, by supplying design input or performing CAD work.

Qualifications
Minimum Experience/Education:
  • B.S.M.E. from an accredited engineering school

Key Skills:
  • Coursework:
    • Statics & Dynamics
    • Mechanics of Materials
    • Mechanisms/Machine Design
    • Kinematics
    • Fluid Dynamics
    • Thermodynamics
    • Heat Transfer
    • System Dynamics
    • 3D CAD
  • Strong sense of ownership and pride in execution of work
  • Mechanical intuition

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Mechanical Engineering Internships and/or Co-ops, particularly in Machine Design or adjacent industries (see below)
  • 3D CAD experience; Inventor and/or Solidworks preferred
  • FEA software experience; Ansys, NASTRAN, and/or Inventor preferred
  • Machining and fabrication experience (milling, turning, welding, laser-cutting, forming, etc.)
  • Basic experience with machine instrumentation (proximity sensors, vision sensors, strain gauges, scales, etc.)
  • Knowledge and experience of common machine elements: gears, bearings, belts, machine screws, chains, cams, linkages, gearmotors, servomotors, etc.

Adjacent Industries
  • Aerospace & Defense Mechanical Design
  • Factory Automation (material handling, web handling, process automation, etc.)
  • Fluid Power (Hydraulics/Pnumatics)

Essential Functions
Special clothing/equipment (wearing): 1%
High noise level: 1%
Description of work environment - Inside - 99%, Outside - 1%
Travel/transportation requirements: 1-3 days per quarter
Equipment and machines used: Office equipment - 100%
#Techgroup
Compensation Details:
$77,000
The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.
Benefits Overview:
Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)
  • Educational reimbursement
  • Parental leave
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Tax-saving options
  • Disability and life insurance
  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.
Original Posting:
06/15/2026 - Until Filled
Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.
Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language at Labor Laws Posters.

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