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Laser Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Mount Family Group, LTD

CNC Laser Operator

Warwick, RI · On-site

Set up and operate CNC laser and metal fabrication equipment Program and edit CNC machines as needed Read blueprints, engineering drawings, and work orders Inspect parts using precision measuring ...

Mount Family Group, LTD

CNC Laser Operator

Warwick, RI · On-site

$25/hr

Job Duties: · Set up and operate CNC laser and metal fabrication equipment · Program and edit CNC machines as needed · Read blueprints, engineering drawings, and work orders · Inspect parts using ...

nVent

CNC Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI · On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

The Machine Operator III reviews shop operations packets and engineering drawings to ensure that incoming material is correct. * Based on production specifications and/or Group Leader instructions ...

nVent

CNC Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI · On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

The Machine Operator III reviews shop operations packets and engineering drawings to ensure that incoming material is correct. * Based on production specifications and/or Group Leader instructions ...

Arcfield

Mechanical Engineer II

Middletown, RI · On-site

Familiarity with electro-optical systems, i.e. cameras, lasers, and related equipment ... Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline and/or applicable Navy experience. * BS 2-4 Years ...

Arcfield

Mechanical Engineer I

Middletown, RI · On-site

Familiarity with electro-optical systems, i.e. cameras, lasers, and related equipment ... Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline and/or applicable Navy experience. * BS and 0-2 ...

nVent

CNC Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI · On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

The Machine Operator III reviews shop operations packets and engineering drawings to ensure that incoming material is correct. * Based on production specifications and/or Group Leader instructions ...

nVent

CNC Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

The Machine Operator III reviews shop operations packets and engineering drawings to ensure that incoming material is correct. * Based on production specifications and/or Group Leader instructions ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Mechanical Engineer

Middletown, RI · On-site

$61K - $141K/yr

Mechanical Engineer The Opportunity: Research, design, analyze, integrate, and test electromagnetic ... lasers.Apply advanced consulting and extensive technical expertise, and full industry knowledge.

Booz Allen Hamilton

Mechanical Engineer

Middletown, RI · On-site

$61K - $141K/yr

R0245080 Mechanical Engineer The Opportunity: Research, design, analyze, integrate, and test ... lasers. Apply advanced consulting and extensive technical expertise, and full industry knowledge.

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsLaser Engineer JobsLaser Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island

Laser Engineer information

See Rhode Island salary details

$39.7K

$109.8K

$184.1K

How much do laser engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser engineer in Rhode Island is $109,777.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,200.00 and $158,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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?

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 do laser engineers do?

Laser engineers design, develop, and optimize laser systems used in manufacturing, medical devices, and scientific research. They work with optical components, electrical systems, and software, often requiring knowledge of physics and engineering principles, as well as proficiency with tools like CAD software and safety protocols. Their work involves testing, troubleshooting, and ensuring the precision and safety of laser equipment.

What degree do you need to be a laser engineer?

Laser engineers typically need at least a bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or a related field. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with knowledge of optics, laser systems, and relevant software tools.
More about Laser Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Laser Engineer jobs in Rhode Island? For Laser Engineer jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laser Engineer jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Engineer jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Laser Engineer jobs in RI? For Laser Engineer jobs in RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Laser Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Engineer job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,777 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Laser Operator

General Dynamics Electric Boat

North Kingstown, RI • On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

General Dynamics Electric Boat rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 164 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 538 rated manufacturers

Job description

Overview
We are seeking skilled Laser Operators to join our growing manufacturing team. The ideal candidates must have hands-on experience operating Laser or similar equipment to cut metal, attention to detail, and a commitment to producing high-quality work.
responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
  • Able to provide a great level of attention to detail and focus on any given task
  • Ability to lift parts, bins and scrap, up to 50 pounds
  • Operate small hand and power tools as needed
  • Deburring of parts as needed
  • The use of measuring tools; calipers, tape measures, etc.
  • Must be able to distinguish material types
  • Assures that all products conform to prescribed quality standards
  • Maintain cutting quality at acceptable feed rates
  • Safety and Maintenance
    • Follow all standard safety regulations
    • Follow company rules and safety policies while working in a fast-paced environment
  • Maintain an organized and clean work area along with maintaining a high level of attention to detail and focus on the given task

Some of the Benefits we provide to you include:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401K Plan
  • Paid Vacation and holidays
  • Shift Premium
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Commuter/Van Services/Ripta
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Safety Boot Reimbursement Program

This position is located at the Quonset Point facility in North Kingstown, RI.
Qualifications
Required:
  • High school diploma or equivalent OR a minimum of 2 years related technical experience
  • Experience operating Laser or similar equipment to cut metal
  • Competent to learn all aspects of Trumpf or similar CNC laser/laser punch combo machines
  • Ability to use measuring equipment to include calipers, micrometers, squares and tape measures
  • Available to work all shifts including alternate work weeks (4/10s - 3/12s)
  • Strong understanding of metal fabrication processes and tooling
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints and technical drawings
  • Good math, measurement, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to lift materials and stand for extended periods
  • Individuals are required to possess their own basic hand tools

Preferred:
  • Experience with programming software such as TruTops, BySoft, or similar platforms
  • Knowledge of metal fabrication processes and materials
  • Familiarity with additional shop equipment (press brake, shear, punch, etc.)
  • Ability to optimize cutting paths and material usage
  • Vocational, Technical and Community Colleges or Apprentice programs
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Military

Skills
  • Ability to work in a collaborative and team environment and meet organizational goals
  • Effective communication with all shipmates
  • Commitment to safety and quality

Physical Qualifications
Climbing, Crawling, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Medium Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Stooping, Twisting
Environmental Attributes
Dry, Dusty, Fumes, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily, Outside

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