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Laser Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Tube Laser

Aurora, IL

$17 - $21.50/hr

Work closely with the Laser Programmer to identify opportunities for program improvements and increased efficiency. * Perform routine cleaning and basic preventive maintenance on the machine and ...

Tube Laser

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

Work closely with the Laser Programmer to identify opportunities for program improvements and increased efficiency. * Perform routine cleaning and basic preventive maintenance on the machine and ...

Tube Laser

Aurora, IL

$17 - $21.50/hr

Work closely with the Laser Programmer to identify opportunities for program improvements and increased efficiency. * Perform routine cleaning and basic preventive maintenance on the machine and ...

This role bridges engineering, sales, and service by demonstrating machine capabilities, optimizing cutting parameters, and ensuring customers achieve maximum value from their laser systems. Primary ...

Bystronic Laser Lead

Waukegan, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

This role is responsible for scheduling employees, programming and setting up laser equipment, monitoring production performance, and ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency standards are met. Key ...

This role is responsible for scheduling employees, programming and setting up laser equipment, monitoring production performance, and ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency standards are met. Key ...

We are seeking an experienced CNC Laser Operator/Programmer to join our manufacturing team. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience programming, setting up, and operating fiber laser ...

Laser Machine Operator

Addison, IL ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Laser Machine Operator Blue Collar Carpentersville, IL. 60110 2st Shift 1:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. $22 ... Communicate closely with the engineering team to develop best practices for manufacturability of ...

ILUS - Laser Operator

Hobart, IN ยท On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

With hundreds of engineers inhouse, the company designs, manufactures, integrates, and installs the ... Produces laser cuts for fabrication processes by setting up, programming, and operating a computer ...

New

ILUS - Laser Operator

Hobart, IN

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

With hundreds of engineers inhouse, the company designs, manufactures, integrates, and installs the ... Produces laser cuts for fabrication processes by setting up, programming, and operating a computer ...

New

ILUS - Laser Operator

Hobart, IN ยท On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

With hundreds of engineers in-house, the company designs, manufactures, integrates, and installs ... Produces laser cuts for fabrication processes by setting up, programming, and operating a computer ...

New

2nd Shift Laser Operator

Hobart, IN

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

With hundreds of engineers inhouse, the company designs, manufactures, integrates, and installs the ... Produces laser cuts for fabrication processes by setting up, programming, and operating a computer ...

New

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Showing results 1-20

Laser Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.7K

$115.5K

$193.7K

How much do laser engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser engineering in Chicago, IL is $115,475.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,400.00 and $166,400.00 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 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?

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 or high-tech environments.

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 popular job titles related to Laser Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL? For Laser Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laser Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Laser Engineering jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Laser Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Laser Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,475 per year, or $55.5 per hour.

Laser Welding Engineer, Cell Line

Gotion, Inc.

Manteno, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Laser Welding Engineer
Location: Manteno, IL ย 
Job Type: Full-Timeย 

Job Summary:ย 
The Laser Welding Engineer will play a critical role in developing and optimizing welding processes for Gotion's 40GW battery cell facility. This position focuses on ensuring high-quality welds for battery components, such as cell casings and electrical connections, using advanced welding technologies. The ideal candidate will have expertise in both manual and robotic welding techniques to support large-scale production.ย 

Key Responsibilities:ย 

  • Responsibilities
    • Develop, debug, and continuously optimize laser welding processes.

    • Define and maintain welding parameters such as power, speed, frequency, and focal position.

    • Evaluate welding quality and conduct defect analysis, including appearance inspection, tensile testing, and metallographic analysis.

    • Support laser welding equipment installation, FAT/SAT, and mass production launch.

    • Resolve welding defects such as weak welds, spatter, burn-through, and other welding-related issues.

    • Collaborate with equipment, quality, and production teams to improve welding yield and process stability.

    • Prepare welding process documentation and related technical reports.

    Qualifications
    • Bachelor's degree or above in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Automation, or related fields.

    • Minimum of 3 years of experience in laser welding process engineering.

    • Familiar with fiber laser systems and laser welding principles.

    • Experience welding aluminum, copper, nickel, or similar materials is a plus.

    • Strong on-site problem-solving and analytical skills.

The U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $80k -$120k, plus eligibility for bonus and benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by factors such as the role, level, and geographic location. The range listed in the job posting represents the minimum and maximum target salaries for this position across all U.S. locations. Actual compensation within the range will be influenced by the specific work location, along with factors such as job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter will provide more details about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the listed compensation reflects the base salary only and does not include bonus or benefits.