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Laser Engineer Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Laser Design Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

We're looking for laser design engineers to contribute to the designs of Gen 1 and 2 custom laser designs and the integration with the wafer-scale interposer. Ideal Background: An ideal candidate ...

HealthTronics is looking for an experienced Laser Support Engineer to help strengthen and expand our medical laser service capabilities. This is a highly technical role for someone who knows medical ...

New

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Laser Engineers to join our EO/IR Capability Group . This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical and Laser ...

Build, lead, and mentor a multidisciplinary laser engineering team spanning laser physics, photonic integration, packaging, and test. * Define technical roadmaps and milestone-driven development ...

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX

$127K - $165K/yr

We also design hardware for producing and inspecting consumables, such as laser-machined needle ... As an Optical Engineer at Neuralink, you will develop custom optics and imaging systems used ...

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$86K - $143K/yr

We also design hardware for producing and inspecting consumables, such as laser-machined needle ... As an Optical Engineer at Neuralink, you will develop custom optics and imaging systems used ...

Senior Welding Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$35.50 - $48.75/hr

... laser beam, electron beam, and others - that unlock performance and throughput conventional arc ... Partner with design engineers on joint weldability - distortion control, access, inspection ...

Senior Welding Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

... laser beam, electron beam, and others - that unlock performance and throughput conventional arc ... Partner with design engineers on joint weldability - distortion control, access, inspection ...

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Laser Engineer information

See Austin, TX salary details

$40.1K

$111.1K

$186.3K

How much do laser engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser engineer in Austin, TX is $111,084.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,900.00 and $160,000.00 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 popular job titles related to Laser Engineer jobs in Austin, TX?

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

What job categories do people searching Laser Engineer jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Engineer jobs in Austin, TX are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Laser Engineer jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Laser Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Laser Engineer job openings in Austin, TX 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 $111,084 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

Laser Design Engineer

Conductor

Austin, TX • On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

We’re looking for laser design engineers to contribute to the designs of Gen 1 and 2 custom laser designs and the integration with the wafer-scale interposer.

Ideal Background:

An ideal candidate will have:

  • Deep understanding of laser design, manufacturing, validation and qualification
  • Hands-on experience and ideally ownership of at least one part of the aforementioned process
  • Hands-on experience in contributing to industry-first laser design

Nice to Have:

  • Direct experience with VCSEL design, validation and/or qualification
  • Experience with large VCSEL arrays
  • Experience with high density laser arrays
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