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Laser Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Laser Engineer Wilmington, NC | Global Laser Enrichment (GLE) Full-Time | On-Site Q-Clearance Required or Eligible At Global Laser Enrichment (GLE), we're building first-of-a-kind technology that ...

Laser Engineer Wilmington, NC | Global Laser Enrichment (GLE) Full-Time | On-Site Q-Clearance Required or Eligible At Global Laser Enrichment (GLE), we're building first-of-a-kind technology that ...

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 ...

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 ...

We have an opening for a Laser Engineer to support National Ignition Facility (NIF) laser engineering, operations, and maintenance within the world's most advanced laser facility. In this critical ...

Laser Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

We have an opening for a Laser Engineer to support National Ignition Facility (NIF) laser engineering, operations, and maintenance within the world's most advanced laser facility. In this critical ...

We have an opening for a Laser Engineer to support National Ignition Facility (NIF) laser engineering, operations, and maintenance within the world's most advanced laser facility. In this critical ...

LASER ENGINEER / TECHNICIAN This position is to work directly in our laser cutting shop with Trumpf (laser), Prima & Shape process It will support Engineering in their duties in an efficient and ...

Principal Laser Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$139K - $231K/yr

Spectra-Physics is the Lasers Business Unit of MKS Instruments. We have an excellent opportunity for someone like you to join our innovative product development engineering team as a Principal Laser ...

The Senior Laser Engineer 2 will lead the design, development, and execution of advanced laser and optical experiments in a controlled laboratory environment. This position focuses on applied ...

Laser Engineer III

Macon, GA · On-site

$30 - $33.65/hr

Laser Engineer III * Location 5775 South Main Street, Macon, GA, 31201, United States * Base Pay $30.00 - $33.65 / Hour * Job Category SPM-2054 Requirements Laser Engineer III Are you an innovative ...

Laser Engineer

Saint Clair, MI · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Are you an innovative Field Service Engineer with a passion for cutting-edge technology? Join ... Gain hands-on experience with the latest in ophthalmic laser technology. We provide all the ...

The Staff Laser Engineer will support the design, development, and execution of advanced laser and optical experiments in a controlled laboratory environment. This position focuses on applied ...

The Laser Engineer is primarily responsible for designing, developing, and qualifying laser manufacturing processes, employing multiple engineering disciplines, for the manufacture of Class II and ...

Fiber Laser Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

Job Title Fiber Laser Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary) You will support the development, integration, and test of advanced fiber laser systems typically with performance ...

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Laser Engineer information

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$40.5K

$112.1K

$188K

How much do laser engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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.

Are laser technicians in high demand?

Laser technicians are in high demand in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and research, where precision laser equipment is used. The job often requires technical skills, certifications, and familiarity with laser safety protocols, contributing to steady employment opportunities.

What are Laser Engineers?

Laser Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, and maintain laser systems used in various industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, telecommunications, and research. They apply principles of physics, optics, and engineering to create and improve devices that generate and use lasers for tasks like cutting, measuring, or medical procedures. Laser Engineers also troubleshoot and optimize laser equipment, ensuring safety and efficiency in their operation. Their work often involves collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to integrate laser technology into products or processes.

What engineering jobs pay 500,000?

Senior engineering roles such as petroleum, aerospace, and software engineers can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, bonuses, and stock options. High-level positions in management or specialized fields often offer compensation in this range, particularly in industries with high profit margins or technical complexity.

What Is a Laser Engineer?

A laser engineer is a type of electrical engineer who specializes in equipment that makes lasers and lasers themselves, sometimes in specialty areas such as advanced optics. As a laser engineer, your job duties include monitoring the laser systems, optimizing the output of the lasers, and researching issues with the performance of the lasers. You may also be required to develop documentation on how to operate and maintain the equipment and train other technicians. To begin a career in this role, you need the same qualifications and skills required of an electrical engineer, as well as experience in the use, operation, and maintenance of laser equipment.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management and technical expertise.

What are some common challenges faced by Laser Engineers when working on new laser system designs?

Laser Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining beam quality while increasing power output, managing thermal effects in laser components, and ensuring precise alignment of optical elements. Additionally, integrating lasers with other complex systems and meeting stringent safety standards can be demanding. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers—is essential to overcome these hurdles and deliver reliable, high-performance laser solutions.

What does a Laser Engineer do?

A Laser Engineer designs, develops, and tests laser systems and components for various applications such as manufacturing, medical devices, or research. They work with optical, electrical, and mechanical systems, often using CAD software and precision instruments, and may require specialized certifications or training in optics and laser safety.

What is the difference between Laser Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectLaser EngineerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, physics, or related field; certifications in laser safety or opticsBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related field; similar certifications in optics and laser safety
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing facilities, research centersResearch labs, manufacturing, product development, optical system design
Industry UsageLaser manufacturing, medical devices, defense, researchOptical systems, imaging, telecommunications, consumer electronics

Laser Engineers and Optical Engineers often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. However, Laser Engineers focus specifically on laser systems, their design, and application, while Optical Engineers work broadly with optical components and systems, including lenses, fibers, and imaging devices. Both roles are vital in industries like manufacturing, research, and technology development, but Laser Engineers specialize in laser-specific technologies.

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

To thrive as a Laser Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and engineering principles, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with laser simulation software, CAD systems, and relevant safety certifications are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure the safe and efficient design, development, and maintenance of advanced laser systems for various applications.
What cities are hiring for Laser Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Laser Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Laser Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Laser Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Laser Engineer jobs? The top employers for Laser Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Laser Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Laser Engineer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Laser Engineer jobs? For Laser Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Laser Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,096 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Laser Engineer

Global Laser Enrichment

Wilmington, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Laser Engineer
Wilmington, NC | Global Laser Enrichment (GLE)
Full-Time | On-Site
Q-Clearance Required or Eligible
At Global Laser Enrichment (GLE), we're building first-of-a-kind technology that advances the future of uranium enrichment. Reporting to the Engineering Manager, and working closely with the various engineering teams, the Laser Engineer is responsible for achieving and maintaining optimum performance for GLE pulsed CO2 lasers and associated subsystems. The Laser Engineer will work closely with other Laser Engineering personnel as well as Operations, Process Physics, Mechanical Engineering, and other staff to integrate their work into larger program goals supporting commercialization of Global Laser Enrichment's technology.
Why Join GLE?
  • Support first-of-a-kind nuclear technology.
  • Collaborate across engineering disciplines to solve complex integration challenges.
  • Contribute to a mission-driven organization grounded in safety, quality, and innovation.
  • Competitive compensation, strong benefits, and long-term growth opportunities.

What You'll Do
  • Play a key role in the introduction of novel laser-based isotopic separation technology into the uranium enrichment market using state-of-the-art tools, facilities, and technology.
  • Design and implement improved components for existing lasers to optimize performance of GLE laser systems.
  • Characterize and optimize critical parameters in GLE laser systems using optical characterization methods.
  • Lead projects to define, procure, install, and test novel optical systems to significantly improve the performance and cost effectiveness of GLE's separation technology.
  • Establish and maintain analytical models describing physics of interest in pursuit of project goals.
  • Support pursuit of creative manufacturing solutions for optical and mechanical components.
  • Support laser operations as needed.
    Obtain and maintain up-to-date expertise in the fields essential to the GLE laser technology.

Environmental Health & Safety (EHS)
  • Immediately report any safety or environmental incidents, unsafe acts/conditions, and near misses.
  • Follow all GLE EHS policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
  • Actively contribute to GLE's safety culture through best practices in planning and execution.

What You'll Bring
  • B.S. in Engineering, Physics, or a related field
  • 5 additional years of experience in a scientific or engineering
  • Minimum 1 year of experience in both plasma physics AND pulsed CO2 lasers
  • Minimum 1 year of experience in hands-on construction and repair of pulsed CO2 lasers
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Must be willing to take a drug test as part of the selection process
  • Must be willing to submit to a background investigation as part of the selection process

Preferred Qualifications
  • Active DOE/NRC Q-clearance or equivalent strongly preferred.
  • M.S or Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering, or a related field
  • Experience in manufacturing and/or design for manufacturability
  • History of producing results on self-directed projects
  • Experience both with theoretical laser/optical concepts as well as hands-on construction and testing, with a track record of effectively blending these two aspects of engineering
  • Demonstrated ability to work in technology areas with limited precedent
  • Generates new and unique ideas; makes fresh connections; an original thinker
  • Inspired to reach stretch goals in all endeavors
  • Experience working in classified and/or highly regulated environments

Important Note
Due to the sensitive nature of our work, U.S. Citizenship and eligibility to obtain and maintain a DOE/NRC Q-Clearance are required.