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Laser Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Global Laser Enrichment

Laser Engineer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, and working closely with the various engineering teams, the Laser Engineer is responsible for achieving and maintaining optimum performance for GLE pulsed CO2 ...

Xcimer Energy

Director of Laser Engineering

Denver, CO · On-site

$190K - $220K/yr

As the Director of Laser Engineering , you will lead the development, scaling, and industrialization of advanced laser systems that support Xcimer's next-generation fusion energy platform. You will ...

Xcimer Energy

Director of Laser Engineering

Denver, CO · On-site

$190K - $220K/yr

As the Director of Laser Engineering , you will lead the development, scaling, and industrialization of advanced laser systems that support Xcimer's next-generation fusion energy platform. You will ...

LLNL

Laser Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

As a key member of the Laser Systems Engineering and Operations (LSEO) Division in the Engineering Directorate, you will help drive the continued success of this flagship experimental facility of the ...

LLNL

Laser Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

As a key member of the Laser Systems Engineering and Operations (LSEO) Division in the Engineering Directorate, you will help drive the continued success of this flagship experimental facility of the ...

LLNL

Laser Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

As a key member of the Laser Systems Engineering and Operations (LSEO) Division in the Engineering Directorate, you will help drive the continued success of this flagship experimental facility of the ...

Industrial Fabricators

Laser Programmer

Gastonia, NC · On-site

Develop and create computer programs for laser machines based on engineering drawings, specifications, or production requirements. * Select appropriate laser parameters, including power, speed, and ...

Superior Metal Products

Laser Programmer

Sidney, OH

The Laser Programmer will focus on developing, optimizing, and maintaining laser-based manufacturing processes including cutting, welding, drilling, engraving, and surface treatment. The Laser ...

American Trim

Laser Programmer

Sidney, OH · On-site

The Laser Programmer will focus on developing, optimizing, and maintaining laser-based manufacturing processes including cutting, welding, drilling, engraving, and surface treatment. The Laser ...

NSS

Laser Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

Contribute to the engineering development of unique laser designs through design analysis, component specification, and hardware assembly, integration, and test. * Coordinate and support the build ...

ExpressPros - Toledo, OH

Tube Laser Engineer

Toledo, OH

$36.06 - $38.46/hr

We are looking for a motivated and driven individual to join our engineering and automation team as a Tube Laser Programmer / SolidWorks Designer. This position is focused on developing the skills ...

ExpressPros - Toledo, OH

Tube Laser Engineer

Toledo, OH

$75K - $80K/yr

We are looking for a motivated and driven individual to join our engineering and automation team as a Tube Laser Programmer / SolidWorks Designer. This position is focused on developing the skills ...

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Laser Engineering information

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$40.5K

$112.1K

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How much do laser engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser engineering in the United States is $112,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,500.00 and $161,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a laser engineer do?

A laser engineer designs, develops, and tests laser systems and components for various applications such as manufacturing, medical devices, or research. They work with optical, electrical, and mechanical systems, often using CAD software and requiring knowledge of laser physics and safety protocols.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior laser engineers or optical engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in laser systems, and often specialized certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles in industries like aerospace, defense, or research institutions typically offer such compensation, especially for those in leadership or highly technical positions.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or advanced certifications.

What is the difference between Laser Engineering vs Optical Engineering?

AspectLaser EngineeringOptical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, specialized laser certificationsBachelor's or higher in optical, electrical, or physics engineering
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing facilities, research centersResearch labs, product development, optical system design
Industry UsageLaser systems, medical devices, industrial cuttingImaging, telecommunications, optical sensors
Common Search/ComparisonLaser EngineeringOptical Engineering

Laser Engineering focuses on the design, development, and application of laser systems, often requiring specialized laser certifications. Optical Engineering covers a broader range of optical systems, including lenses, imaging, and fiber optics. While both roles share foundational knowledge in optics, Laser Engineering emphasizes laser-specific technologies and applications, making it distinct in industry usage and work environment.

What are some typical challenges laser engineers face when working on new product development?

Laser engineers often encounter challenges such as selecting appropriate laser sources and optical components to meet strict performance requirements, managing heat dissipation, and ensuring system reliability under various operating conditions. Collaborating closely with mechanical, electrical, and software teams is crucial to integrate laser systems successfully into larger products. Additionally, keeping up with rapid technological advancements and adhering to safety standards are important aspects of the role. These challenges provide opportunities for continuous learning and innovation within multidisciplinary teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Laser Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laser Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, optical simulation tools, and hands-on experience with laser systems and safety certifications are often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication set top performers apart. These competencies are critical for designing, optimizing, and maintaining advanced laser technologies used in research, manufacturing, and medical applications.

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, laser systems, and certifications can lead to higher compensation, especially in specialized fields like manufacturing, research, or defense.

What is laser engineering?

Laser engineering is a specialized field of engineering that focuses on the design, development, and application of lasers and laser-based systems. Laser engineers work with various types of lasers to solve problems in industries such as manufacturing, medicine, telecommunications, and research. They are involved in tasks ranging from creating new laser devices to integrating lasers into larger systems and ensuring their safe operation. This field requires a solid understanding of optics, electronics, and materials science.
More about Laser Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Laser Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Laser Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Laser Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Laser Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Laser Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Engineering jobs are:
Laser Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,096 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Laser Engineer

Global Laser Enrichment

Wilmington, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Laser Engineer
Wilmington, NC | Global Laser Enrichment (GLE)
Full-Time | On-Site
Q-Clearance Required or Eligible
At Global Laser Enrichment (GLE), we're building first-of-a-kind technology that advances the future of uranium enrichment. Reporting to the Engineering Manager, and working closely with the various engineering teams, the Laser Engineer is responsible for achieving and maintaining optimum performance for GLE pulsed CO2 lasers and associated subsystems. The Laser Engineer will work closely with other Laser Engineering personnel as well as Operations, Process Physics, Mechanical Engineering, and other staff to integrate their work into larger program goals supporting commercialization of Global Laser Enrichment's technology.
Why Join GLE?
  • Support first-of-a-kind nuclear technology.
  • Collaborate across engineering disciplines to solve complex integration challenges.
  • Contribute to a mission-driven organization grounded in safety, quality, and innovation.
  • Competitive compensation, strong benefits, and long-term growth opportunities.

What You'll Do
  • Play a key role in the introduction of novel laser-based isotopic separation technology into the uranium enrichment market using state-of-the-art tools, facilities, and technology.
  • Design and implement improved components for existing lasers to optimize performance of GLE laser systems.
  • Characterize and optimize critical parameters in GLE laser systems using optical characterization methods.
  • Lead projects to define, procure, install, and test novel optical systems to significantly improve the performance and cost effectiveness of GLE's separation technology.
  • Establish and maintain analytical models describing physics of interest in pursuit of project goals.
  • Support pursuit of creative manufacturing solutions for optical and mechanical components.
  • Support laser operations as needed.
    Obtain and maintain up-to-date expertise in the fields essential to the GLE laser technology.

Environmental Health & Safety (EHS)
  • Immediately report any safety or environmental incidents, unsafe acts/conditions, and near misses.
  • Follow all GLE EHS policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
  • Actively contribute to GLE's safety culture through best practices in planning and execution.

What You'll Bring
  • B.S. in Engineering, Physics, or a related field
  • 5 additional years of experience in a scientific or engineering
  • Minimum 1 year of experience in both plasma physics AND pulsed CO2 lasers
  • Minimum 1 year of experience in hands-on construction and repair of pulsed CO2 lasers
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Must be willing to take a drug test as part of the selection process
  • Must be willing to submit to a background investigation as part of the selection process

Preferred Qualifications
  • Active DOE/NRC Q-clearance or equivalent strongly preferred.
  • M.S or Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering, or a related field
  • Experience in manufacturing and/or design for manufacturability
  • History of producing results on self-directed projects
  • Experience both with theoretical laser/optical concepts as well as hands-on construction and testing, with a track record of effectively blending these two aspects of engineering
  • Demonstrated ability to work in technology areas with limited precedent
  • Generates new and unique ideas; makes fresh connections; an original thinker
  • Inspired to reach stretch goals in all endeavors
  • Experience working in classified and/or highly regulated environments

Important Note
Due to the sensitive nature of our work, U.S. Citizenship and eligibility to obtain and maintain a DOE/NRC Q-Clearance are required.

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