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Laser Engineering Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

ARA

Senior Laser Engineer 2

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline. * Minimum of 10 -12 years of progressively responsible experience in laser and optical ...

Kinetic Cuttings Systems

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Laser Applications Engineer - CNC Machinery

Pasadena, TX · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Laser Applications Engineer Location: Houston, TX Travel: Up to 70% throughout the United States ... We are committed to innovation, engineering excellence, and delivering advanced cutting solutions ...

Denison Industries

CMM / Laser Programmer

Denison, TX · On-site

CMM / LASER PROGRAMMER Employment Status: Full-Time Department: Quality Position Reports To ... Proficient in reading/interpreting engineering drawings (blueprints) MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Must have ...

AtWork

MAZAK Laser Operator

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$22/hr

Work closely with supervisors, programmers, and quality teams Qualifications * 2+ years of experience operating MAZAK laser machines (2D or 3D) * Experience cutting steel, stainless steel, and ...

Fab Har Corporation

Tube Laser Operator

Princeton, TX · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Vision insurance Tube Laser Operator Looking for Tube Laser Operator to sets up, program, and ... and engineering drawings. Sets up metal fabricating equipment as needed ; performs metal ...

AtWork

MAZAK Laser Operator

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$22/hr

Work closely with supervisors, programmers, and quality teams Qualifications * 2+ years of experience operating MAZAK laser machines (2D or 3D) * Experience cutting steel, stainless steel, and ...

Full Circle

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 ...

Full Circle

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 ...

Kloeckner Metals Corporation

Laser Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Job Summary The Laser Operator is responsible for producing high-quality products in a safe, efficient manner by setting up, operating, and performing some basic programming tasks. This role involves ...

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All JobsLaser Engineering JobsLaser Engineering Jobs in Texas

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 Texas?

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

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

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

What cities in Texas are hiring for Laser Engineering jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Laser Engineering job openings:

Laser Engineering jobs near you

Senior Laser Engineer 2

San Antonio, TX • On-site

ARA
See more jobs at ARAexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

The Rocky Mountain Division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking a Senior Laser Engineer 2 to join a multi-disciplinary team of engineers and scientists researching laser effects on human performance and laser eye protection solutions in a laboratory setting. The candidate will lead the operation and maintenance of the laser systems required to accomplish the research objectives. The candidate will operate and maintain numerous laser systems to include but not limited to high energy laser systems (HEL), existing wavelength-tunable high pulse power titanium-Sapphire laser, femtosecond laser systems, multiple high-energy continuous wave (CW) lasers, and tunable nanosecond optical parametric oscillators. Additional support may include performing in-house and on-field HEL-target reflection and bidirectional reflection distribution function (BRDF) measurements to validate and improve laser hazard prediction models and establish/maintain database of measured BRDFs. Most of the work will take place onsite in US Government provided laboratory space.
The Senior Laser Engineer 2 will lead the design, development, and execution of advanced laser and optical experiments in a controlled laboratory environment. This position focuses on applied research and advanced technology development in support of understanding and mitigating the effects lasers on biological tissues and vision. The candidate serves as a senior technical contributor and subject-matter expert, responsible for developing and implementing experimental concepts, executing high-fidelity laboratory demonstrations, and transitioning results to follow-on experiments, programs, and operational stakeholders.
This position is contingent upon ARA securing a contract, customer acceptance of the candidate's resume, funding of the senior laser engineer position, security clearance, and successful background check. The Air Force has announced that it expects to make an award in the summer of 2026.
Responsibilities
  • Design, build, and operate complex laser-based experimental setups in optical laboratories to support applied research and advanced technology development.
  • Develop experimental architectures using CW and pulsed laser sources (e.g., solid-state, fiber, diode, ultrafast) tailored to mission-relevant applications.
  • Lead precision optical alignment, beam conditioning, stabilization, and diagnostic activities.
  • Define experimental objectives, success criteria, and test plans aligned with research programs and Technology Readiness Level (TRL) maturation.
  • Perform data collection, analysis, and interpretation to assess system performance and technology feasibility.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve optical, mechanical, electronic, and software issues affecting experimental performance.
  • Ensure full compliance with DoD laser safety, environmental, and laboratory security requirements.
  • Document experimental designs, results, and conclusions in technical reports, briefings, and peer-reviewed publications as appropriate.
  • Collaborate with government, federally funded research and development centers (FFRDC), academic, and industry partners.
  • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, scientists, and contractors.

Key Skills and Competencies
  • Deep expertise in laser physics and laser system operation, including CW and pulsed laser sources.
  • Strong background in optical system design, free-space and fiber-based optical architectures, and optomechanical integration.
  • Proficiency in optical diagnostics and metrology (beam profilers, interferometry, spectroscopy, power/energy measurements).
  • Experience with optical modeling and simulation tools (e.g., Zemax, Code V, COMSOL, or equivalent).
  • Capability to develop and automate experiments using data acquisition and control software (MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, or similar).
  • Demonstrated ability to translate laboratory results into mission-relevant insights and recommendations.
  • Strong technical communication skills for internal leadership, program managers, and external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
  • Minimum of 10 -12 years of progressively responsible experience in laser and optical laboratory research.
  • Demonstrated experience leading or independently executing complex experimental research efforts.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications
  • MS or PhD in a relevant technical discipline.
  • Experience with DoD laboratories.
  • Background in mission-relevant areas such as directed energy, advanced sensing, spectroscopy, space optics, or laser-matter interactions.
  • Existing DoD clearance.

Company & Division Information
Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is an employee-owned scientific research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and critical problems. Founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, ARA currently has over 2,200 employee-owners in offices throughout the United States and Canada providing a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. In addition, we provide sophisticated technical products for environmental site characterization, pavement analysis, and robotics.
At ARA, employee-owners are at the heart of every success. We embrace employee ownership which spawns greater creativity, initiative, and higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. All eligible employees have the opportunity to earn annual contributions to the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), and all of our employee-owners can directly impact our shared success.
Please apply at www.careers.ara.com for the Senior Laser Engineer 2 position.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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