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Laser Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apex Laser

$30 - $40/hr

Machine Operation & Programming: Setup, program, and operate industrial laser cutting machinery to produce high-precision parts. * Material Handling: Work with various metals including steel ...

Wolfe Industries Inc

Be Seen First

Laser Operator

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$800 - $1.0K/wk

Required skills = Laser operation, Fork Lift experience, Programming a plus, loading and unloading lasers w/ HRPO, SS, Aluminum or CRS sheet, Reading Drawings, Micrometer, Caliper, tape measure, pin ...

LLNL

Laser System Operator

Livermore, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $26.50/hr

These positions are in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division within the Engineering Directorate. This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

New

LLNL

Laser System Operator

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

These positions are in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division within the Engineering Directorate. This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

LLNL

Laser System Operator

Livermore, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $26.50/hr

These positions are in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division within the Engineering Directorate. This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

Baltimore Aircoil Company

Laser Operator

Madera, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Change press brake tooling and laser cutting heads and lenses as required ... Interpret work orders, blueprints, engineering drawings, and measuring devices to ensure accurate ...

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All JobsLaser Engineering JobsLaser Engineering Jobs in California

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.

CNC Laser Cutting Programmer-Operator

Apex Laser

Canoga Park, CA • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

About Apex Laser

Precision, speed, and quality are the heartbeat of Apex Laser. We build high‑tolerance parts from steel, aluminum, and stainless for diverse industries, and we do it in a fast, innovative shop where ideas quickly become finished components.

Role: CNC Laser Cutting Programmer-Operator

Imagine starting your shift with a hot coffee and a clear plan. You scan the queue, load the next job, and nest parts to minimize scrap. You dial in gas pressure, focal offset, and cut speeds, then watch the first part glide free—clean edges, tight tolerances, zero burr. While the machine hums, you’re already staging the next sheet, reading prints, and double‑checking specs so there’s no wasted motion. When a cut line flares or a pierce hesitates, you troubleshoot on the fly and keep production flowing.

What you’ll do
  • Program and operate industrial CNC laser cutters to produce precision parts from steel, aluminum, and stainless steel.
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and customer specifications with complete accuracy.
  • Optimize performance by adjusting gas pressure, focal point, and feed rates; resolve errors and cut defects quickly.
  • Plan ahead by staging materials, nesting, and sequencing work to reduce downtime in a fast-paced environment.
  • Handle materials safely using a forklift and manual lifts for loading/unloading sheets and finished parts.
  • Verify quality with meticulous inspections to ensure parts meet strict standards before they move downstream.
What makes you a great fit
  • Proven background operating and programming industrial laser cutting equipment.
  • Technical fluency with machine controls and parameter tuning; confident blueprint and print-reading skills.
  • Troubleshooter’s mindset—you anticipate, prevent, and solve issues before they become delays.
  • Physical readiness to lift heavy materials and safely run a forklift (certification preferred or willing to certify).
  • Clear communicator—strong written and verbal communication with teammates and across departments.
  • Detail obsessed—because “close enough” isn’t in your vocabulary.
Compensation and stability
  • Competitive Pay: $30.00 - $40.00 per hour based on experience.
  • Stability: Full-time hours in a growing, state-of-the-art facility, with overtime opportunities available.
How to apply

Ready to keep production seamless? Send your resume and a brief note about your laser cutting experience to info@apex-laser.com or apply directly through this platform.

Machines and technologies you’ll use
  • CNC Laser Cutter (Mitsubishi, Mazak, Trumpf, Amada, Cincinnati, Bystronic, Prima-Power, Hankwang)