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Laser Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cowboy Space Corporation

Laser Engineer

San Carlos, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. * 3+ years of experience in laser engineering, including design, development, and testing of laser ...

LLNL

Laser Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

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 ...

Latent AI

Space Lasers Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$100 - $135/hr

Bachelor's degree in physics or an engineering discipline * 2+ years of hands-on laboratory or work experience in optics, photonics, laser technology, or precision mechanical design or testing ...

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Laser Engineering information

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.

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, 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.

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 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.

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 or high-tech environments.

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 are popular job titles related to Laser Engineering jobs in California?

For Laser Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laser Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Engineering jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Laser Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Laser Engineering job openings:

Laser Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Laser Engineer

Cowboy Space Corporation

San Carlos, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Overview
The Laser Engineer is critically responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing high-power laser systems for our satellite platforms. Your expertise will contribute to creating laser technologies capable of efficiently and reliably transmitting energy across vast distances from space to Earth. You will collaborate closely with optical, mechanical, electrical, and systems engineers to develop laser systems that meet space application performance and reliability requirements.
Key Responsibilities
  • Laser System Design: Design and develop high-power laser systems suitable for space-based applications, including solid-state, fiber, or semiconductor lasers.
  • Optical Modeling and Simulation: Use optical design software (e.g., Zemax, Code V) to model laser systems, perform simulations, and optimize performance parameters.
  • Component Selection and Integration: Select appropriate laser components, including gain media, pump sources, and optical elements, and integrate them into cohesive systems.
  • System Prototyping and Testing: Build prototypes of laser systems, conduct laboratory experiments, and perform characterization tests to validate performance against design specifications.
  • Thermal Management: Work with thermal engineers to design cooling systems and manage thermal effects within laser systems to ensure stability and efficiency.
  • Reliability and Space Qualification: Develop laser systems that meet space qualification standards, including radiation hardness, thermal-vacuum compatibility, and vibration resistance.
  • Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate laser systems with satellite platforms, including power systems, pointing and control mechanisms, and communication interfaces.
  • Documentation: Create detailed technical documentation, including design specifications, test plans, analysis reports, and operation manuals.
  • Innovation: Stay abreast of emerging laser technologies and industry trends, and contribute innovative ideas to improve system performance and reliability.

Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of experience in laser engineering, including design, development, and testing of laser systems.
  • Proficiency with optical design and simulation software (e.g., Zemax, Code V).
  • Hands-on experience with high-power laser systems, including solid-state, fiber, or semiconductor lasers.
  • Knowledge of laser physics, nonlinear optics, and optical materials.
  • Experience with laboratory equipment such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, beam profilers, and laser power meters.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
  • 5+ years of professional experience in laser system development for aerospace or space applications.
  • Familiarity with space qualification processes and environmental testing (thermal-vacuum, vibration, radiation).
  • Experience with laser-based energy transmission or communication systems.
  • Knowledge of thermal management techniques for high-power laser systems.
  • Experience with integration of laser systems into larger mechanical and electrical systems.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.

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