Principal Engineer Optical
$125K - $187K/yr
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription At Northrop Grumman, our employees have
Principal Engineer Optical
$125K - $187K/yr
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription At Northrop Grumman, our employees have
Principal Engineer Optical
Redondo Beach, CA · On-site
$125K - $187K/yr
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time Description At Northrop Grumman, our employees have
Principal Engineer Optical
Redondo Beach, CA · On-site
$125K - $187K/yr
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time Description At Northrop Grumman, our employees have
Senior Laser & SOA Characterization Engineer
$130K - $174K/yr
About this Role We are hiring a senior engineer for our Photonics Characterization team at Lightmatter. Lightmatter is redefining computing by building photonic systems that use light to enable
Senior Laser & SOA Characterization Engineer
$130K - $174K/yr
About this Role We are hiring a senior engineer for our Photonics Characterization team at Lightmatter. Lightmatter is redefining computing by building photonic systems that use light to enable
Mechanical Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$120 - $170/hr
Who We Are:\ Aurelius Systems is a VC backed defense tech startup building autonomous, edge deployed directed energy systems for counter-UAS. We build laser weapons to shoot down drones. \ We're a
Mechanical Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$120 - $170/hr
Who We Are:\ Aurelius Systems is a VC backed defense tech startup building autonomous, edge deployed directed energy systems for counter-UAS. We build laser weapons to shoot down drones. \ We're a
Mechanical Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$130K - $180K/yr
Who We Are: Aurelius Systems is a VC backed defense tech startup building autonomous, edge deployed directed energy systems for counter-UAS. We build laser weapons to shoot down drones. We're a small
Mechanical Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$130K - $180K/yr
Who We Are: Aurelius Systems is a VC backed defense tech startup building autonomous, edge deployed directed energy systems for counter-UAS. We build laser weapons to shoot down drones. We're a small
Mechanical Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
Who We Are: Aurelius Systems is a VC backed defense tech startup building autonomous, edge deployed directed energy systems for counter-UAS. We build laser weapons to shoot down drones. We're a small
Quick apply
Mechanical Engineer
San Francisco, CA · On-site
Who We Are: Aurelius Systems is a VC backed defense tech startup building autonomous, edge deployed directed energy systems for counter-UAS. We build laser weapons to shoot down drones. We're a small
We are looking for a Laser Characterization Engineer to join our Laser team. You will be the hands-on technical owner for bring-up, characterization, and validation of Lightmatter's laser modules and
We are looking for a Laser Characterization Engineer to join our Laser team. You will be the hands-on technical owner for bring-up, characterization, and validation of Lightmatter's laser modules and
Staff /Sr Staff Laser Module & Systems Characterization Engineer
Mountain View, CA · On-site
$187 - $260/hr
Lightmatter is leading the revolution in AI data center infrastructure, enabling the next giant leaps in human progress. The company invented the world's first 3D-stacked photonics engine, Passage,
New
Staff /Sr Staff Laser Module & Systems Characterization Engineer
Mountain View, CA · On-site
$187 - $260/hr
Lightmatter is leading the revolution in AI data center infrastructure, enabling the next giant leaps in human progress. The company invented the world's first 3D-stacked photonics engine, Passage,
New
Lightmatter is leading the revolution in AI data center infrastructure, enabling the next giant leaps in human progress. The company invented the world's first 3D-stacked photonics engine, Passage™,
Lightmatter is leading the revolution in AI data center infrastructure, enabling the next giant leaps in human progress. The company invented the world's first 3D-stacked photonics engine, Passage™,
Mission Manager, Space Lasers (Starshield)
$130K - $180K/yr
MISSION MANAGER, SPACE LASERS (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and
Mission Manager, Space Lasers (Starshield)
$130K - $180K/yr
MISSION MANAGER, SPACE LASERS (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and
Mission Manager, Space Lasers (Starshield)
Hawthorne, CA · On-site
$130K - $180K/yr
SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the
Mission Manager, Space Lasers (Starshield)
Hawthorne, CA · On-site
$130K - $180K/yr
SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the
Mission Manager, Space Lasers (Starshield)
El Segundo, CA · On-site
$130 - $180/hr
the company was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today the company is actively developing the
New
Mission Manager, Space Lasers (Starshield)
El Segundo, CA · On-site
$130 - $180/hr
the company was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today the company is actively developing the
New
Primary Duties & Responsibilities * Design and develop multi-fiber module packaging for fiber optic devices and modules to create the physical structures, including enclosure, fiber mounting,
Primary Duties & Responsibilities * Design and develop multi-fiber module packaging for fiber optic devices and modules to create the physical structures, including enclosure, fiber mounting,
Primary Duties & Responsibilities * Design and develop multi-fiber module packaging for fiber optic devices and modules to create the physical structures, including enclosure, fiber mounting,
Primary Duties & Responsibilities * Design and develop multi-fiber module packaging for fiber optic devices and modules to create the physical structures, including enclosure, fiber mounting,
Primary Duties & Responsibilities * Design and develop multi-fiber module packaging for fiber optic devices and modules to create the physical structures, including enclosure, fiber mounting,
Primary Duties & Responsibilities * Design and develop multi-fiber module packaging for fiber optic devices and modules to create the physical structures, including enclosure, fiber mounting,
Primary Duties & Responsibilities * Design and develop multi-fiber module packaging for fiber optic devices and modules to create the physical structures, including enclosure, fiber mounting,
Primary Duties & Responsibilities * Design and develop multi-fiber module packaging for fiber optic devices and modules to create the physical structures, including enclosure, fiber mounting,
Photonics Lab Operator
Santa Clara, CA · On-site
$45 - $55/hr
About us nEye.ai, a well-funded optical switch startup, is poised to revolutionize the future of data centers. nEye's MEMS-based silicon photonics optical circuit switches (OCS) eliminate critical
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Santa Clara, CA · On-site
$45 - $55/hr
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Santa Clara, CA · On-site
$45 - $55/hr
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Photonics Lab Operator
Santa Clara, CA · On-site
$45 - $55/hr
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Photonics Lab Operator
$45 - $55/hr
About us nEye.ai, a well-funded optical switch startup, is poised to revolutionize the future of data centers. nEye's MEMS-based silicon photonics optical circuit switches (OCS) eliminate critical
Quick apply
Photonics Lab Operator
$45 - $55/hr
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Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Operator/Locator
Fresno, CA · On-site
$54 - $60/hr
About MGE MGE Underground is a growing utility infrastructure contractor serving utility companies from our Paso Robles headquarters and regional hubs throughout California. Our mission is to support
Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Operator/Locator
Fresno, CA · On-site
$54 - $60/hr
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Fiber Laser Operator information
See California salary details
$13.05 - $14.32
3% of jobs
$14.32 - $15.59
9% of jobs
$16.74 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.59 - $16.87
14% of jobs
$16.87 - $18.14
15% of jobs
The median wage is $18.81 / hr.
$18.14 - $19.41
17% of jobs
$19.41 - $20.68
15% of jobs
$21 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.68 - $21.96
9% of jobs
$21.96 - $23.23
7% of jobs
$23.23 - $24.50
5% of jobs
$24.50 - $25.77
3% of jobs
$25.77 - $27.05
2% of jobs
$13
$19
$27
How much do fiber laser operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for fiber laser operator in California is $19.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a fiber laser operator?
A Fiber Laser Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining fiber laser cutting machines used to cut and engrave materials like metal, plastic, or wood. They interpret blueprints or CAD designs to ensure precise cuts, adjust machine settings, and inspect finished products for quality. Operators must also perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot issues to keep production running smoothly. This role requires technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety procedures to ensure efficient and accurate fabrication.
What does a fiber laser operator do?
A typical workday for a Fiber Laser Operator involves setting up fiber laser machines, loading materials, programming or selecting cutting jobs, and monitoring the cutting process to ensure accuracy and quality. Operators frequently inspect finished parts, perform basic machine maintenance, and document production output or quality checks. The work environment is usually a manufacturing or fabrication facility where teamwork and communication with supervisors, engineers, and quality control personnel are common. This role can be fast-paced and may require troubleshooting equipment or adjusting setups to accommodate different materials or specifications, keeping the work both dynamic and engaging.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fiber laser operator?
A successful Fiber Laser Operator possesses strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and practical experience with CNC machinery, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with laser cutting equipment, CAD/CAM software, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork enhance performance and adaptability in this role. Mastering these skills ensures high-quality production, workplace safety, and efficient operation of laser systems.
What are the most commonly searched types of Fiber Laser Operator jobs in California?
The most popular types of Fiber Laser Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Fiber Laser Operator jobs in California?
For Fiber Laser Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fiber Laser Operator jobs in California look for?
The top searched job categories for Fiber Laser Operator jobs in California are:
$125K - $187K/yr
Full-time
Medical, Life, PTO
Re-posted 6 days ago
Northrop Grumman rating
8.3
Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
66th of 545 rated manufacturers
Job description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Space Systems sector, located in Redondo Beach, California, is seeking a Principal Engineer Optical to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals. The qualified applicant will become part of a team that provides enabling state-of-the-art technology engineered into national security defense systems and civilian science and environmental missions. We provide integrated system expertise for our primary products which include high-energy and high-peak power laser subsystems, beam control and optical subsystems, from component design and development through system integration.
**Please be aware that this position is contingent upon capturing program award and obtaining customer funding prior to the start date**
Roles & Responsibilities:
-Integration & test of solid-state laser systems including both CW and pulsed laser systems, encompassing both fiber and slab technologies
-Supporting the optical and opto-mechanical design of high power (multi-kW) laser systems with associated free-space optical assemblies and beam paths
-Applying technical expertise in laser and optics, with knowledge of related disciplines
-Laser product development and productization of laser technology
-Developing technical solutions to complex problems which require ingenuity and creativity.
-Ability to work both independently and as part of larger engineering teams
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) discipline with5+ years of laser experience; or Master'sdegree in a STEM discipline with3+ years of laser experience; or Ph.D. in a STEM discipline with 1+ years of laser experience
- Experience working with high-power solid-state laser systems, including fiber lasers and amplifiers
- Laser system integration background with knowledge of hardware requirements and testing
- Ability to independently set up and perform system tests, including free-space optical beam trains and diagnostics
- Ability to prepare and present briefing packages to both internal and external customers, communicating technical approaches and findings
- US citizenship and the ability to obtain/maintain an active U.S. Government security clearance
Preferred Qualifications:
- Degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or Electrical Engineering
- Experience in the design, integration and test of high-power (kW-class and above) laser systems, including fiber lasers and amplifiers operating at high powers, and optical alignments of free-space beam paths
- Understanding of laser-related physics, and possessing physics-based modeling capability and techniques
- Familiarity with suppliers of optics, coatings and fiber-related components.
- Optical design capability using Code V or Zemax design tools
- Active U.S. Government security clearance at the Top Secret level with a background investigation date within 6 years, or active U.S. Government SCI access with a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) completed within the last 5 years
**Please be aware that this position is contingent upon capturing program award and obtaining customer funding prior to the start date**
Primary Level Salary Range: $125,300.00 - $187,900.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.What Northrop Grumman employees say
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About Northrop Grumman
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.
Industry
Space research administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Falls Church, VA, US
Year founded
1939