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Laser Engineering Jobs in Foothill Ranch, CA (NOW HIRING)

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

... Physics/Electrical Engineering or a related field * 5-10+ years of experience in optical design or a related field * Strong understanding of physics, optics materials, and/or laser systems ...

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA

$138K - $179K/yr

... Physics/Electrical Engineering or a related field * 5-10+ years of experience in optical design or a related field * Strong understanding of physics, optics materials, and/or laser systems ...

Metrology Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$86K - $114K/yr

... scanners, laser trackers, CT, and optical systems from manufacturers such as Hexagon, Zeiss ... Engineering degree, or equivalent technical training and hands-on metrology experience. * Working ...

Metrology Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$86K - $114K/yr

... scanners, laser trackers, CT, and optical systems from manufacturers such as Hexagon, Zeiss ... Engineering degree, or equivalent technical training and hands‑on metrology experience. * Working ...

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

... Physics/Electrical Engineering or a related field * 5-10+ years of experience in optical design or a related field * Strong understanding of physics, optics materials, and/or laser systems ...

Customer Support Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$34.41 - $57.56/hr

Use remote diagnostic tools to troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues on CNC laser cutting machines * Work with applications, engineering, production, and other internal teams to ...

Customer Support Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$34.41 - $57.56/hr

Use remote diagnostic tools to troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues on CNC laser cutting machines * Work with applications, engineering, production, and other internal teams to ...

... engineering analysis. You will be responsible for developing automated inspection routines for CMMs, creating alignment strategies for large- scale laser tracker measurements, and analyzing ...

Showing results 41-60

Laser Engineering information

See Foothill Ranch, CA salary details

$41.8K

$115.8K

$194.2K

How much do laser engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser engineering in Foothill Ranch, CA is $115,801.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $166,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 cities near Foothill Ranch, CA are hiring for Laser Engineering jobs?

Cities near Foothill Ranch, CA with the most Laser Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Laser Engineering job openings in Foothill Ranch, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,801 per year, or $55.7 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineering II-Riverside,California

Riverside, CA • On-site

Collins Aerospace
Aviation • 10K+ employees

$75K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 252 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Date Posted:
2026-08-20
Country:
United States of America
Location:
US-CA-RIVERSIDE-8200B1 ~ 8200 Arlington Ave ~ BLDG B1
Position Role Type:
Onsite
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
This job requires a U.S. Person. A U.S. Person is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, U.S. permanent residents, or individuals granted refugee or asylee status in the U.S. are considered U.S. persons. For a complete definition of "U.S. Person" go here: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-22/chapter-I/subchapter-M/part-120/subpart-C/section-120.62
Security Clearance Type:
None/Not Required
Security Clearance Status:
Not Required
At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world's most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.
Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.
We are seeking for a Manufacturing Engineer II to join our team at Riverside - CA facility. The Manufacturing Engineer will support the production of advanced composite and metallic structures used on commercial and military programs. This role supports Collins Aerospace's Riverside Center of Excellence for composite bonding and focuses on stabilizing, sustaining, and improving production processes.
The successful candidate will learn and apply engineering fundamentals to optimize composite fabrication processes, resolve production issues, improve quality, and reduce cost. This position is hands-on and shop-floor-focused, working daily with operators, cross-functional engineers, and manufacturing leadership.
What You Will Do
  • Assist and train assemblers in composite fabrication operations including, layup, laser projection, ply cutting/kitting, CNC machining, tooling, robotic automation, and related bonding processes.
  • Create, maintain, and improve manufacturing documentation such as routings, bills of materials, visual work instructions, and standard work.
  • Ensure manufacturing processes comply with EHS, quality, and engineering specifications.
  • Investigate and resolve production issues using data analysis, root cause methods, and corrective action planning.
  • Use data analytics and SPC tools to improve productivity, FPY, and operational performance metrics.
  • Participate in PFMEA, control plans, tool design reviews, and continuous improvement activities.
  • Identify opportunities for process optimization, cycle-time reduction, automation, and digital manufacturing solutions.
  • Collaborate with operations, quality, design engineering, and suppliers on daily production support and technical projects.
  • Assist senior engineers in initiatives related to design changes, equipment upgrades, MRB activities, and manufacturing readiness.
  • Support adoption of smart factory technologies including real-time dashboards and digital work instructions.

Qualifications you Must Have
  • Typically requires a University Degree or equivalent experience and minimum 2 years of prior relevant experience.
  • Experience in interpreting engineering drawings, process specifications, technical reports, and work instructions.
  • Experience in MS Office and project management.
  • Experience with Continuous improvement tools (LEAN, Six Sigma, etc).
  • Ability to follow established procedures and adapt equipment or process concepts to production needs.
  • Basic coding or scripting experience (Python, MATLAB, VBA, SQL, or similar) to support automation, data analysis, and digital manufacturing initiatives.
  • Working Knowledge of networked equipment, sensor-based process monitoring, and automated data collection architectures.

Qualifications We Prefer
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, multitasking, and organizational skills.
  • Experience with CATIA V5/V6 or 3DExperience; familiarity with Composite Workbench or FiberSim NX.
  • Exposure to autoclave/oven programming, ply cutters, laser systems, or dimensional inspection tools.
  • Knowledge of composite inspection (NDI) techniques.
  • Hands-on composite fabrication experience through coursework, internships, student projects, or prior shop-floor work.
  • Exposure to connected factory or smart factory technologies, including digital work instructions, MES, IIoT platforms, or real-time factory data systems.
  • Experience using advanced analytic tools (Power BI, Tableau, Python, etc.) to visualize and interpret process data and drive manufacturing improvements.

What We Offer
Some of our competitive benefits package includes:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off after 121 days
  • Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option
  • Tuition reimbursement program
  • Student Loan Repayment Program
  • Life insurance and disability coverage
  • Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection
  • Birth, adoption, leave benefits
  • Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Autism Benefit
  • Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions
  • Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program
  • Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits
  • Bright Horizons, child and elder care services
  • Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program
  • And more!

Learn More & Apply Now!
Our Advanced Structures team leverages advanced materials and additive manufacturing to develop complex interior and exterior solutions. These solutions ensure structural integrity of the aircraft, help aircraft take off and land, stay trim in the air, move forward, carry cargo and conduct rescues. We delight our customers with superior products and best-in-class service. Our global team is committed to continuous improvement - we work hard to make our solutions lighter-weight, stronger and more technically advanced, so that plane travel can be safer, more affordable and more sustainable in the years to come. We are looking for the best and brightest to fly and land with us!
*Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role.
Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.
At Collins, the paths we pave together lead to limitless possibility. And the bonds we form - with our customers and with each other -- propel us all higher, again and again.
Apply now and be part of the team that's redefining aerospace, every day.
As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.
The salary range for this role is 75,800 USD - 144,200 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.
Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance.
This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.
RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.
RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018