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Entry Level Laser Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

R&M Manufacturing

Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Buffalo, MN · On-site

$23.50 - $32.50/hr

... more entry level and ready to develop your skills. We will train the right person! * Ability to ... This may include learning new skills such as setups and programming to cross training in other ...

Boeing

Entry Level Lab Technician

Farmington, NM · On-site

$44.20K - $59.80K/yr

Our team consists of engineers and technicians in all disciplines required to plan, design ... Serve as a crew member for tests, being trained in optics, lasers, telescopes, and telescope mount ...

Boeing

Entry Level Lab Technician

Farmington, NM · On-site

$44.20K - $59.80K/yr

Our team consists of engineers and technicians in all disciplines required to plan, design ... Serve as a crew member for tests, being trained in optics, lasers, telescopes, and telescope mount ...

Boeing

Entry Level Lab Technician

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$44.20K - $59.80K/yr

Our team consists of engineers and technicians in all disciplines required to plan, design ... Serve as a crew member for tests, being trained in optics, lasers, telescopes, and telescope mount ...

Boeing

Entry Level Lab Technician

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$44.20K - $59.80K/yr

Our team consists of engineers and technicians in all disciplines required to plan, design ... Serve as a crew member for tests, being trained in optics, lasers, telescopes, and telescope mount ...

Sightpath Medical

MoFe Engineer I

Philadelphia, PA

$28 - $34/hr

Whether youre 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 ...

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

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 ...

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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 May 31, 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 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 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 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.

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.

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:
What are the most commonly searched types of Laser Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Laser Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Laser Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Laser Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Laser Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Laser Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Laser Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Laser Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 27% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 57% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,096 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

R&M Manufacturing

Buffalo, MN • On-site

$23.50 - $32.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Laser Operator
Location: Buffalo, MN
Job Type: Full-time
Pay Range: $23.50 - $32.50 Hourly - Based on experience; 2nd Shift includes a $2.50 shift premium.
Shift(s): 2nd (3:30 PM - 2 AM) 4 Day work week, Monday - Thursday (this will require training on 1st shift or a split shift)
Company: R&M Manufacturing
About Us: R&M Manufacturing, part of the Arise Industrial Manufacturing family, was founded in 1968 to produce precision sheet metal components. With over 50 years providing excellence in sheet metal fabrication, R&M will assist with all sheet metal needs - from prototyping to production runs.
The R&M team's mission is to surpass the competition by delivering superior quality with integrity and fostering dynamic partnerships with customers. The core values emphasize safety as the top priority, investing in growth and training, operating with honesty, providing world-class service, and promoting teamwork for organizational improvement.
If you take pride in precision work and want to be part of a team that's been setting the standard in sheet metal fabrication for over 50 years, we want to hear from you.
Job Overview: The Laser Operator is responsible for setting up and operating CNC laser cutting machines to produce metal parts according to specifications. This role involves reading blueprints, selecting proper materials, monitoring the cutting process, and performing quality checks to ensure precision and accuracy.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Set up, operate and troubleshoot laser.
  • Maintain quality and safety standards, update records, maintain equipment and supplies.
  • Produce and inspect a variety of parts of varying types and thicknesses and adhere to the specifications of the mechanical drawings.
  • Perform secondary operations while the Laser is in operation.
  • Locate the proper raw material needed and carefully load the material into the machine(s).
  • Operate the laser by entering instructions, including zero and reference points, setting tool registers, offsets, compensation, and conditional switches.
  • Calculate material requirements using basic math and geometry.
  • Verify settings by measuring positions, proving out flat layout programs on first-run parts and sample work pieces to ensure adherence to customer specifications.
  • Maintain and record accurate part counts.
  • Maintain general housekeeping in the work area such as sweeping, transporting materials with pallet jack or forklift, empty slug bins, and clean laser cutting table.
  • Perform other tasks as assigned and required.

Qualifications:
  • We're looking for candidates who have the foundation to succeed - whether you're an experienced operator or more entry level and ready to develop your skills. We will train the right person!
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and work orders
  • Proficient in basic shop math and measuring tools (calipers, tape measures, micrometers)
  • Understanding of metal types, gauges, and cutting tolerances
  • Familiarity with material handling and loading/unloading sheets of metal
  • Basic computer skills; experience with CAD/CAM or machine-specific software is a plus

Why Work with Us?
  • We offer competitive pay and an outstanding benefits package.
  • We invest in our people, offering opportunities for career growth and development. This may include learning new skills such as setups and programming to cross training in other areas of the plant.
  • We offer a positive work culture with a safe environment while producing quality work efficiently.

Benefits:
  • Day 1 company-provided telehealth services to all employees and family
  • Company-provided Life and AD&D Insurance and Disability Insurance
  • Multiple options for Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Optional Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution
  • Voluntary supplemental insurance options (critical care, hospital indemnity, accident, etc.)
  • Traditional 401(k) and Roth retirement savings plans with employer contribution
  • Paid Time Off

How to Apply: If you're excited about this opportunity and believe you're a great fit for the role, please submit your application on this page. We look forward to hearing from you!
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, welcoming and encouraging applications from everyone. Our company participates in E-Verify to ensure a fair and inclusive employment process.

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