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Laser Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Laser Specialization This position includes testing lasers in manufacturing and the ability to ... Assists engineers with manufacturing projects. Ensure proper flow of the manufacturing floor. May ...

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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.
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:
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.

Mechanical Engineer II with Security Clearance

Arcfield

Middletown, RI • On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Responsibilities This position will provide direct support to the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Code 34 Imaging In-Service Engineering Agent (ISEA) Team. Tasking directly provide technical support to in-theater naval assets utilizing legacy and photonic imaging systems and ensure overall fleet readiness of Submarine Imaging Systems. Duties will include but may not be limited to the following: * Design, create and communicate requirements for Technical Data Packages (TDP).
* Review, analyze, and effectively provide feedback for schematics, diagrams, and requirements for Technical Data Packages (TDP).
* Develop test plans, test readiness evaluations, hardware installation, and troubleshooting recommendations.
* Assist in the analysis of Government Furnished Information (GFI).
* Perform Trade Studies of mil-spec and Commercial off the Shelf (COTS) materials.
* Work closely with other mechanical, systems & electrical engineers to deliver fully functional solutions.
* Conduct and actively participate in cross-discipline design reviews.
* Collaborate with various stakeholders (Navy, government civilians, OEM, sub-contractors, etc.).
* Independently execute system engineering lifecycle analysis and reports.
* Adapt appropriately to changes in program priorities and requirements.
* Support and submit Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs) by conducting requirements analysis, problem/deficiency reporting, researching technical solutions, identifying form fit function replacements, and recommending courses of action.
* Continue to expand depth/knowledge in technical disciplines through formal and informal learning.
* Integrate, test, and troubleshoot electrical and electronic hardware associated with Submarine Imaging Systems.
* Develop, implement, and test changes to the RF systems and associated test equipment and instrumentation.
* Perform Finite Element Analysis using related softwares.
* Provide recommendations for process improvements to existing Submarine Imaging Systems and operational processes.
* Develop program status reports such as technical assessments, risk assessments, technical recommendations or technical information
Skills * Highly organized, capable of approaching problems with a system-level perspective
* Strong oral and written communication skills.
* Practical experience with the systems engineering process.
* Familiarity with electro-optical systems, i.e. cameras, lasers, and related equipment.
* Familiarity with RF test equipment and systems, ideally involving antennas, amplifiers, filters, and signal distribution.
* Familiarity in electro-mechanical systems, i.e. motors, gyros, and synchros using control systems.
* Ability to effectively work independently and/or within a multi-disciplinary team.
* Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), meet deadlines, and multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
Qualifications * Requirements * Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline and/or applicable Navy experience.
* BS 2-4 Years, MS 0-2 * One to two years' experience in Optical, Electrical, or Electronics systems.
* Experience working with lab equipment such as multi meters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, logic analyzers, Field Fox, etc.
* Technical Writing skills are required.
* Working experience with electrical and mechanical CAD software's such as Altium Designer, LTspice, OrCAD and SolidWorks
* Working Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software's such as Abaqus. * Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office programs such as Excel, Visio, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
* Position requires the ability to obtain a Secret-level security clearance with the US Government.
* Ability to effectively interpret customer goals and tasking as assigned.
Additional Skills of Interest (not required): * Active Secret Security Clearance
* Experience with PCB design
* Proficiency in MATLAB
* Proficiency in Linux-based systems
* Proficiency in VISIO or similar engineering-oriented documentation applications
* Familiarity with RF test equipment and systems, ideally involving antennas, amplifiers, filters, and signal distribution
* Experience or working knowledge of USN SUBSAFE program and policies.
Equal Pay Act This is the projected compensation range for this position. There are differentiating factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate, including, but not limited to, Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location (For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract Labor categories. In addition, Arcfield invests in its employees beyond just compensation. Arcfield 's benefits offerings include, dependent upon position, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, Short Term and Long-Term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections.Min: $67,565.76Max: $117,483.74 EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and federal government contractor. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment as protected by law.