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Laser Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

TalentRemedy

Staff Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

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 ...

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$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

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 ...

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 ...

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

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 ...

Utilicom

Program Chief Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

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

$200 - $250/hr

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

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

Job Title Optical Communication Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary ... Knowledge of laser theory and industry best practices associated with fiber laser systems including ...

Fibertek, Inc.

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

Job Title Optical Communication Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary ... Knowledge of laser theory and industry best practices associated with fiber laser systems including ...

Actalent

Electrical Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Senior Electrical Engineer | Pay: $60 - $80/hr | Onsite in Herndon, VA | 9-month contract-to-hire ... Design and develop electronics for advanced electro-optical systems used in laser, lidar, and laser ...

NSS

Firmware Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$95 - $125/hr

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 NASA, DoD, and ...

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All JobsLaser Engineer JobsLaser Engineer Jobs in Washington

Laser Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$45.9K

$127K

$212.9K

How much do laser engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser engineer in Washington is $126,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,100.00 and $182,900.00 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 Washington?

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Laser Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Laser Engineer job openings:

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

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

Laser Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,959 per year, or $61 per hour.

Engineering Laser Analyst - Intermediate

KBR Careers

Springfield, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
KBR is a leader in providing high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions for the intelligence and national security sectors. The Engineering Laser Analyst will be responsible for planning, executing, and analyzing vulnerability tests to identify weaknesses in mission-critical systems, ensuring compliance with security standards, and collaborating with teams to enhance system resilience.
Responsibilities:
• Develop detailed vulnerability test plans and procedures for mission-critical systems.
• Execute operational vulnerability tests under simulated and real-world conditions.
• Analyze test results, identify system weaknesses, and recommend corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with organizational security standards and regulatory requirements during testing.
• Collaborate with engineering and security teams to integrate vulnerability findings into system design improvements.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and briefings for stakeholders.
• Support readiness reviews and contribute to risk assessment activities.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives for vulnerability testing processes and tools.
• Provide technical guidance to junior engineers during test execution and analysis.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Master’s degree and 7 years of relevant experience with demonstrated expertise; OR
• Bachelor’s degree and 8 years of relevant experience with demonstrated expertise; OR
• No degree and 10 years of relevant experience with demonstrated expertise.
• Experience in vulnerability testing, penetration testing, or operational security assessments.
• Familiarity with security compliance frameworks and risk management methodologies.
• Proficiency in using vulnerability assessment tools and test management systems.
• Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance with adjudicated polygraph
Preferred:
• Prior experience conducting vulnerability tests in mission-critical or defense environments.
• Advanced knowledge of cybersecurity principles, system hardening techniques, and exploit mitigation strategies.
• Exposure to automated testing tools and scripting for vulnerability analysis (e.g., Python, Bash).
Company:
At KBR, we deliver science, technology and engineering solutions that are helping governments and companies around the world take on the great challenges of our time. Founded in 1919, the company is headquartered in Houston, TX, US, , with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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