1

Laser Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Join Our Growing Fabrication Team as a Tube Laser Cutting Operator! Are you an experienced machine ... Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and work orders with precision. * Load raw ...

CNC Laser Operator

Sterling, VA · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Review work orders, blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and CNC programs prior to ... Operate CNC laser equipment using established programs, setup instructions, and work procedures.

CNC Laser Operator

Sterling, VA · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Review work orders, blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and CNC programs prior to ... Operate CNC laser equipment using established programs, setup instructions, and work procedures.

CNC Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Atkins, VA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

We are seeking a reliable CNC Laser Operator to join our 2nd shift production team. This role is ... Experience with AutoCAD and TruTops programming highly preferred * Solid background in sheet metal ...

Showing results 21-40

Laser Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$40.2K

$111.1K

$186.4K

How much do laser engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser engineer in Virginia is $111,134.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,900.00 and $160,100.00 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 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 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.

How much do laser engineers make in the US?

Laser engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and industry. Advanced skills in optics, CAD software, and certifications can lead to higher compensation, especially in specialized manufacturing or research environments.

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 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, engineering principles, and safety protocols. Their tasks include testing, troubleshooting, and improving laser performance to meet specific application needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laser Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Laser Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Laser Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Laser Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laser Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Laser Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Laser Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Laser Engineer jobs in VA?

For Laser Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Laser Engineer job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,134 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

CNC Laser Operator

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Synerfac Technical Staffing
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

CNC Laser Operator Location: Virginia Beach, VA Shift: M-F 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Type: direct About the company: Our client provides on-site power integration for large data scale centers. Job description: The CNC Laser Operator will be responsible for operating, maintaining, and ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of CNC laser cutting machines. This role involves reading and loading CAD drawings or CNC programs, setting up and running production, performing basic machine maintenance, and ensuring all parts meet company quality standards. Responsibilities: - Load part programs, CAD drawings, and cutting schedules into CNC laser equipment. - Set up and operate CNC laser cutting machines to process sheet metal components according to specifications. - Monitor machine operations to ensure parts meet required tolerances and quality standards. - Inspect finished parts using measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges. - Perform routine and preventative maintenance on CNC laser equipment (e.g., cleaning optics, changing filters, checking alignments). - Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring proper material storage and waste disposal. - Collaborate with engineering and quality teams to resolve production or programming issues. - Record production data, material usage, and quality metrics accurately. - Follow all safety protocols, including PPE use and safe material handling practices. - Identify and report equipment malfunctions or maintenance needs promptly. Benefits: - Health, dental, vision insurance - Life Insurance, Long-term Disability - Paid time off & Paid Holidays - 401k Matching - Tuition and Training Assistance Disclaimer: By applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, Al-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Synerfac Technical Staffing and our contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undeliverable messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy at www.synerfac.com/privacy/ - Minimum 3 years of experience operating CNC laser cutting equipment (Amada, Trumpf, Mazak, or similar). - Ability to read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and technical specifications. - Strong understanding of metal types, thicknesses, and cutting characteristics. - Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. - Familiarity with precision measuring instruments and quality control procedures - Basic computer literacy (for program loading, data entry, and machine interface navigation).

Synerfac Technical Staffing logo

About Synerfac Technical Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1987, Synerfac has served three groups, Our Clients, Our Candidates and Our Staff. We treat all three with equal importance because we recognize the synergy of success when one group succeeds, We all succeed. Synerfac is in the business of providing opportunities and adding value. We strive to create extraordinary experiences. For our clients we provide staffing services that enable them to focus on their core competencies which will add value to their businesses. For our employees we provide permanent and temporary assignments that complement their job skills and experience while providing professional and financial rewards. For our staff –we provide careers that are balanced, uplifting and carry the highest rewards by continually improving our business process. Our goal is to enhance the lives and enterprises of all those we touch to make them better off for having known us.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Cherry Hill, NJ, US

Social media