1

Laser Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Laser Applications Engineer Location: Houston, TX Travel: Up to 70% throughout the United States Kinetic Cutting Systems is a respected manufacturer of high-end fiber laser and plasma cutting systems.

Laser Cutting Machine Operator

Conroe, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $18.75/hr

Machine Operation & Programming * Independently set up and operate laser cutting machines. * Configure cutting parameters such as speed, power, focus, and gas pressure based on material type and ...

Laser Cutting Machine Operator

Conroe, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $18.75/hr

Machine Operation & Programming * Independently set up and operate laser cutting machines. * Configure cutting parameters such as speed, power, focus, and gas pressure based on material type and ...

TIG and Laser Welder

Houston, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/hr

Collaborate with engineers to develop and refine welding procedures for new assemblies * Maintain ... Laser welding experience is a strong plus; candidates with strong TIG backgrounds and mechanical ...

TIG and Laser Welder

Houston, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/hr

Collaborate with engineers to develop and refine welding procedures for new assemblies * Maintain ... Laser welding experience is a strong plus; candidates with strong TIG backgrounds and mechanical ...

TIG and Laser Welder

Houston, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/hr

Collaborate with engineers to develop and refine welding procedures for new assemblies * Maintain ... Laser welding experience is a strong plus; candidates with strong TIG backgrounds and mechanical ...

MOCVD Engineer

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$110K - $200K/yr

MOCVD Engineer The MOCVD Engineer operates and optimizes MOCVD equipment to grow high‑quality semiconductor materials used in lasers and optical communication products. This role focuses on ...

MOCVD Engineer

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$110K - $200K/yr

MOCVD Engineer The MOCVD Engineer operates and optimizes MOCVD equipment to grow high‑quality semiconductor materials used in lasers and optical communication products. This role focuses on ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Laser Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$38.7K

$107K

$179.5K

How much do laser engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser engineer in Houston, TX is $107,048.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,600.00 and $154,200.00 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 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 Houston, TX?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Laser Engineer job openings in Houston, 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 $107,048 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Laser Applications Engineer - CNC Machinery

Kinetic Cuttings Systems

Pasadena, TX • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.


Job description

Laser Applications Engineer

Location: Houston, TX
Travel: Up to 70% throughout the United States

Kinetic Cutting Systems is a respected manufacturer of high-end fiber laser and plasma cutting systems. We are committed to innovation, engineering excellence, and delivering advanced cutting solutions that help manufacturers improve productivity and profitability.

If you're passionate about advanced manufacturing technology and enjoy working with innovative equipment while helping customers succeed, we'd love to hear from you. This is an opportunity to work with a company that continues to develop industry-leading machinery and cutting solutions.

Position Summary

You must have experience with cutting metal using CNC fiber laser cutting systems.

We are seeking a motivated and hands-on Laser Applications Engineer to support customers using large-format CNC fiber laser cutting systems. This role is responsible for developing and optimizing cutting applications, providing customer training, troubleshooting process-related issues, and delivering technical support to maximize machine performance and productivity.

The ideal candidate enjoys working directly with customers, solving technical challenges, and traveling to manufacturing facilities throughout the United States.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and optimize laser cutting parameters for a wide variety of materials and thicknesses.
  • Train customer operators and maintenance personnel on machine operation, programming, safety, and best practices.
  • Provide on-site and remote technical support to customers.
  • Diagnose and resolve process, programming, and machine performance issues.
  • Assist customers in improving productivity, cut quality, and overall machine efficiency.
  • Perform machine evaluations and verify cutting performance.
  • Work closely with engineering, service, and sales teams to improve customer satisfaction and product performance.
  • Document customer visits, technical findings, and training activities.
  • Travel throughout the United States to support customers.

Qualifications

  • Experience with industrial fiber laser cutting systems.
  • Strong understanding of laser cutting processes, materials, and machine operation.
  • Ability to read mechanical drawings and understand manufacturing processes.
  • Familiarity with CNC controls, CAD/CAM software, and nesting software is preferred.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently while traveling.
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel up to 70% within the United States.

Preferred Experience

  • Fiber laser cutting applications.
  • CNC programming and machine operation.
  • Industrial automation or manufacturing environments.
  • Metal fabrication or structural steel processing.

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary based on experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits package.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • Paid time off and holidays.
  • Company-paid travel expenses.


To be considered, you must a simple cover letter with your resume.