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Laser Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy ... Experience in laser systems, including gain media, pump sources, thermal management and control ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy ... Experience in laser systems, including gain media, pump sources, thermal management and control ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

R0246988 Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to ... Experience in laser systems, including gain media, pump sources, thermal management and control ...

TalentRemedy

Staff Engineer

Herndon, VA

Our client is a leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the aerospace community, with key contributions to lasers for atmospheric sensing, laser communications, and lidar sensors for ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy ... Experience in laser systems, including gain media, pump sources, thermal management and control ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$78 - $176/hr

What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy ... Experience in laser systems, including gain media, pump sources, thermal management and control ...

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA

$80K - $145K/yr

Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based optical communications laser terminals including optical inter-satellite links (OISL) and direct to ...

FIBERTEK, INC.

Program Chief Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Fibertek is a recognized industry leader in delivering critical laser-based technologies that enable next generation missions for military and space applications. As a Program Chief Engineer you will ...

FIBERTEK, INC.

Program Chief Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Fibertek is a recognized industry leader in delivering critical laser-based technologies that enable next generation missions for military and space applications. As a Program Chief Engineer you will ...

Fibertek

Program Chief Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Fibertek is a recognized industry leader in delivering critical laser-based technologies that enable next generation missions for military and space applications. As a Program Chief Engineer you will ...

Fibertek, Inc

Program Chief Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Fiber Laser Systems and Technologies: multiple fiber laser and amplifier programs for space and airborne systems Essential Job Duties: The Program Chief Engineer will have high-impact ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsLaser Engineer JobsLaser Engineer Jobs in Virginia

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 4, 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.
More about Laser Engineer jobs

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:

Laser Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $111,134 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

Senior Solid State Laser Systems Technician

Fibertek, Inc

Herndon, VA • On-site

$95K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Title
Senior Solid State Laser Systems Technician
Location
Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary)
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Solid-State Laser Systems Technician to support the hands-on assembly, integration, alignment, and testing of advanced solid-state laser systems in a research laboratory environment.
This role works closely with laser, mechanical, and electrical engineers to execute builds based on verbal direction, sketches, and evolving documentation, particularly during early-stage prototype development. As systems mature, the technician will also support formalized build and acceptance testing for deliverable hardware intended for operation in demanding environments.
The ideal candidate is a senior technician who is comfortable working in a research setting, can independently execute complex optical builds, and brings strong workmanship and lab discipline without owning the underlying laser architecture or design direction.
Key Responsibilities
  • Independently assemble, integrate, and align solid-state laser systems and subsystems
  • Build and align laser resonators, amplifiers, and non-linear frequency conversion modules
  • Support integration of lasers into mechanically and environmentally robust packaged systems
  • Execute optical alignment and troubleshooting with minimal supervision
  • Support early-stage prototype builds where procedures and designs may evolve
  • Perform performance characterization and diagnostic testing under engineering guidance
  • Execute formal acceptance and qualification testing for deliverable systems
  • Interpret verbal instructions, sketches, and partial documentation and translate them into high-quality hardware
  • Identify workmanship issues, integration risks, or build-related improvements and communicate them to the technical team
  • Accurately document configurations, alignment settings, and test results
  • Maintain lab organization, tooling, and laser safety practices
  • Serve as an experienced lab resource for best practices and informal mentoring

Job Requirements
Minimum Requirements
  • 5+ years of hands-on laboratory experience with solid-state laser systems or high-power optical assemblies
  • Demonstrated experience supporting R&D or prototype laser development programs
  • Strong background in optical alignment, resonator setup, and laser diagnostics
  • Proven ability to execute complex builds based on verbal guidance and evolving requirements
  • High attention to detail, workmanship, and documentation

Education
  • Bachelor's degree, Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent hands-on laboratory experience
  • (Relevant experience is valued over formal degree.)

Desired Qualifications
  • Experience with environmentally ruggedized or packaged laser systems
  • Experience with non-linear optics and frequency conversion (e.g., SHG, OPO, OPA)
  • Experience performing acceptance or qualification testing
  • Experience working in small research teams or defense / government-funded programs
  • Comfort serving as a "go-to" lab technician for complex optical builds

Salary Range: The annual base salary range for this position is $95,000-$140,000. This range reflects the compensation Fibertek reasonably expects to offer for this role. Placement within the range will depend on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education and training, key skills, and relevant market and business considerations.
Benefits offered: The company provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; disability, life insurance, and AD&D; a 401(k) plan with a company match and immediate vesting; Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts; an Employee Assistance Program; education assistance; paid time off and holidays; flexible work schedules; and a 9/8/80 alternate workweek option.
FIBERTEK, Inc. is a recognized leader in advanced lasers, lidars and laser communication systems providing our DoD, NASA and aerospace customers discriminating capabilities. We pride ourselves in our innovation and customer success focused culture enabled by a creative and relaxed work environment. Fibertek fosters a progressive learning environment that values inspiration, promotes professional challenge and encourages personal growth. We offer a competitive and incentivized compensation package with excellent benefits.
Fibertek, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual merit, skills, and experience. Fibertek does not engage in nor permits any discrimination in the workplace.

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