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Entry Level Laser Optics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IPG Photonics is revolutionizing the laser industry as the pioneering developer and leading ... Assemble optical/laser hardware and verify the performance of optical components, equipment ...

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159.20K - $206K/yr

Zemax, LightTools, etc.), and/or physical optics (e.g. FDTD, RCWA, etc.)Ability to communicate ... laser, optical grating, prescription glasses, tunable light source, or integrating sphere.

Apply theoretical and experimental understanding of lasers, fiber optics, and opto-mechanical ... Optical Engineer I: $85,000 - $95,000 * Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $110,000 Other Compensation ...

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Apply theoretical and experimental understanding of lasers, fiber optics, and opto-mechanical ... Optical Engineer I: $85,000 - $95,000 * Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $110,000 Other Compensation ...

Apply theoretical and experimental understanding of lasers, fiber optics, and opto-mechanical ... Optical Engineer I: $85,000 - $95,000 * Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $110,000 Other Compensation ...

Apply theoretical and experimental understanding of lasers, fiber optics, and opto-mechanical ... Optical Engineer I: $85,000 - $95,000 * Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $110,000 Other Compensation ...

OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch ... Knowledge of and experience in lasers, photodiodes, fiber optics, optics testing/troubleshooting ...

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Entry Level Laser Optics Engineer information

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$40.5K

$112.1K

$188K

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

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level laser optics 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 Optics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Laser Optics Engineer, you need a solid background in physics or engineering, with knowledge of optics principles and a relevant bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or LightTools), lab equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure precise design, safe handling of lasers, and successful collaboration on complex optical projects.

What are some typical projects or tasks an Entry Level Laser Optics Engineer might work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Laser Optics Engineer, you can expect to be involved in hands-on tasks such as assembling optical setups, performing alignment and calibration of laser systems, and conducting measurements to evaluate optical performance. You may also assist with designing and prototyping optical components, as well as documenting test results and troubleshooting system issues. Collaboration with senior engineers and cross-functional teams is common, giving you exposure to both the technical and project management aspects of the work.

What does an Entry Level Laser Optics Engineer do?

An Entry Level Laser Optics Engineer assists in the design, development, and testing of optical systems that use lasers. Their tasks often include assembling optical components, aligning lasers, conducting experiments, and analyzing data to ensure systems meet performance specifications. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers and may also contribute to troubleshooting and maintaining laboratory equipment. This role requires a strong background in physics or engineering, attention to detail, and hands-on technical skills.

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

AspectEntry Level Laser Optics EngineerOptical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in optics, physics, or engineeringAssociate's degree or technical certification in optics or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D departments, manufacturing facilitiesManufacturing floors, testing labs, assembly areas
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, aerospace, defense, research institutionsManufacturers, optical component suppliers, labs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in laser opticsTechnical roles supporting optical systems

Entry Level Laser Optics Engineers focus on designing and developing laser systems, requiring a bachelor's degree and knowledge of optics. Optical Technicians support manufacturing and testing processes, often with technical certifications. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

More about Entry Level Laser Optics Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Laser Optics Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Laser Optics Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Laser Optics Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Laser Optics Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Laser Optics Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 81% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $112,096 per year, or $53.9 per hour.
High Energy Laser Beam Control Electro-Optical Engineer - Entry Level

High Energy Laser Beam Control Electro-Optical Engineer - Entry Level

Lockheed Martin

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$79.70K - $140.53K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 377 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 59 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Description
We are looking for an electro-optical engineer with capabilities and interests in high energy laser beam control for applications including missile defense, power beaming, and counter-unmanned aerial vehicle defense. Candidates with laser/electro-optical experience relevant to high energy laser beam control are particularly sought; however, the position is open to all technically qualified candidates with a keen interest in high energy laser systems.
With a focus on electro-optical hardware engineering, you will serve on Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) to design, develop, integrate, test, and deliver the beam control subsystem that lies at the very heart of a laser weapon or power beaming system. Its many functions include target acquisition, tracking, and aimpoint selection, beam power delivery to the target, beam alignment and optical stabilization, atmospheric turbulence compensation, and system safety and calibration. Thus, an ideal candidate will have strong fundamental skills, and the ability to learn on the job alongside our senior experts who have made Lockheed Martin a leader in this broad, interdisciplinary field.
We seek an energetic hands-on engineer who is highly interested in directed energy to grow with us.
Basic Qualifications
• Bachelor's Degree in physical science, engineering, or another technical field relevant to high energy laser weapon beam control.
• Exposure to and significant interest in Laser systems
• Oral and written communication skills predictive of success in a technologically demanding field
• U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain a Secret security clearance
Desired skills
• Advanced Degree (MS/Ph.D.) in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
• Academic coursework, laboratory or industrial experience with electro-optical systems including
or related to high energy laser systems,
including telescopes, astronomy, and remote sensing systems.
• Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance
EEO
Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.
The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.
*
At Lockheed Martin, we use our passion for purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work.
With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse career opportunities designed to propel, develop, and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.
If this sounds like a culture you connect with, you're invited to apply for this role. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on Lockheed Martin Jobs, and apply for roles that align with your qualifications.
Other Important Information
By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.
Work Schedule Information
Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.
National Pay Statement
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in California, Massachusetts, and New York (excluding most major metropolitan areas), Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont, Washington or Washington DC is $79,700 - $140,530. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate's final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
(Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.
This position is incentive plan eligible.
Premium Pay Statement
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in most major metropolitan areas in California, Massachusetts, and New York is $91,700 - $158,815. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate's final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
This position is incentive plan eligible.

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About Lockheed Martin

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As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912