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Laser Materials Processing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Solestial, Inc.

Laser Process Engineer

Tempe, AZ

Hands-on experience with lasers, optics, photonics, or laser-based materials processing through academic research, internships, or industry experience * Comfortable working with hardware-building ...

TRUMPF Group

Application Engineer - Welding

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

You will be a part of a highly skilled team of laser and material experts. Your goal is to support sales by ensuring best in class customer satisfaction in the pre-sales technology evaluation process ...

TRUMPF Group

Applications Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

You will be a part of a highly skilled team of laser and material experts. Your goal is to support sales by ensuring best in class customer satisfaction in the pre-sales technology evaluation process ...

TRUMPF

Application Engineer - Welding

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

You will be a part of a highly skilled team of laser and material experts. Your goal is to support sales by ensuring best in class customer satisfaction in the pre-sales technology evaluation process ...

IFab Corporation

Laser Programmer

Gastonia, NC · On-site

The Laser Programmer will be responsible for programming and operating computer- controlled laser ... timely processing of materials while maintaining the highest quality standards. Key ...

Industrial Fabricators

Laser Programmer

Gastonia, NC · On-site

The Laser Programmer will be responsible for programming and operating computer- controlled laser ... timely processing of materials while maintaining the highest quality standards. Key ...

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How much do laser materials processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser materials processing in the United States is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is laser materials processing?

Laser materials processing refers to the use of laser technology to modify, cut, weld, engrave, or otherwise alter the properties of different materials such as metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites. This technique uses focused laser beams to deliver precise amounts of energy to a targeted area, enabling high accuracy and minimal material wastage. Applications include laser cutting, laser welding, surface treatment, engraving, and additive manufacturing. The process is valued for its versatility, precision, and ability to work with a wide range of materials in industries like automotive, aerospace, electronics, and medical device manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in laser materials processing, and why are they important?

To thrive in Laser Materials Processing, you need a solid understanding of materials science, laser physics, and process engineering, often backed by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with laser systems, CAD/CAM software, and quality control tools, as well as certifications like Certified Laser Safety Officer (CLSO), are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for optimizing precision, ensuring safety, and meeting the technical demands of advanced manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in laser materials processing, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in laser materials processing often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision and consistency in material modification, managing thermal effects that can lead to undesired changes, and ensuring safety in high-energy environments. These challenges are typically addressed by staying current with the latest laser technologies, following strict operational protocols, and collaborating closely with engineers and safety specialists. Continuous training and the use of advanced monitoring tools also help in minimizing errors and optimizing process outcomes.

What is the difference between Laser Materials Processing vs Welding Technician?

AspectLaser Materials ProcessingWelding Technician
CredentialsCertifications in laser safety, laser operation, and materials processingWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWI)
Work EnvironmentIndustrial labs, manufacturing plants, aerospace, automotiveConstruction sites, manufacturing facilities, repair shops
Industry UsagePrecision cutting, welding, surface treatment using lasersTraditional welding, fabrication, assembly
Common Search/ComparisonLaser processing techniques, laser operator rolesWelding procedures, welding technician jobs

Laser Materials Processing involves using laser technology for cutting, welding, and surface treatments, often requiring specialized laser safety and operation certifications. Welding Technicians focus on traditional welding methods, working in construction or manufacturing environments, with certifications like AWS. While both roles involve metal fabrication, Laser Materials Processing emphasizes precision laser techniques, whereas Welding Technicians perform conventional welding tasks.

Is laser materials processing a good career?

Laser materials processing is a specialized field involving the use of laser technology to cut, weld, or modify materials, often requiring technical skills and knowledge of laser systems. It offers opportunities in manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive industries, with roles that may require certifications and safety training. The career can be stable and growing as industries adopt advanced manufacturing techniques.

What degree do you need to work with lasers?

Laser materials processing professionals typically need at least a bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, materials science, or a related field. Additional certifications or training in laser safety and operation are often required, along with hands-on experience working with laser equipment.
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What job categories do people searching Laser Materials Processing jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Materials Processing jobs are:

Laser Materials Processing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Materials Processing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,394 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Lead Scientist - Laser Damage & Optical Materials

Corning

Corning, NY • On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 543 rated manufacturers

Job description

Requisition Number: 75362

The company built on breakthroughs. 
Join us.                   

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible. 

How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations- not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company,and the world, forward. 

At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more. 

Come break through with us. 

Corning's businesses are ever-evolving to best serve our customers, industries, and consumers. Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical communications, display, automotive, and solar markets. We are changing the world with: 

  • Trusted products that accelerate drug discovery, development, and delivery to save lives
  • Damage-resistant cover glass to enhance the devices that keep us connected
  • Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light
  • Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences 
  • Auto glass and ceramics to drive cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation 
  • Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy solutions
Role Purpose

Corning Incorporated is hiring a Lead Scientist - Laser Damage & Optical Materials in Corning, NY. This is a full-time onsite role working Monday-Friday, 40 hours per week, with flexibility as needed. Travel averages 10-25%, project dependent. Relocation assistance is available. This position requires candidates to be U.S. persons; visa sponsorship is not available.

Few labs in the world do what this one does. This is a role for a scientist who wants to work at the frontier of laser-materials interaction - and turn those answers into the optics powering semiconductor lithography, AI infrastructure, and aerospace and defense. You'll set the technical direction for Corning's Advanced Optics laser damage testing lab - a world-class deep-UV testing capability - and lead a team of scientists, engineers, and technicians shaping the next generation of optical materials.

Key Responsibilities
  • Provide technical leadership and direction to a team of scientists, engineers, and technicians, delegating work and mentoring across the group.
  • Own strategy and operations for a state-of-the-art laser damage testing laboratory.
  • Lead investigations into laser-materials interactions and damage mechanisms in single-crystal materials, glasses, and coatings.
  • Translate fundamental insights into product innovation, technical roadmaps, and business strategy.
  • Partner with R&D, engineering, manufacturing, and commercial teams to improve existing product lines and identify new materials solutions.
  • Benchmark Corning's products against competitive technologies and support customer engagements as a technical expert.
Minimum Qualifications and Skills
  • Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science, Optics, Solid-State or Physical Chemistry, or related field.
  • Minimum 10 years of post-academic experience in optical materials, laser physics, or related R&D.
  • Demonstrated experience leading and directing technical teams.
  • Deep expertise in laser-materials interactions and optical materials test methods.
Preferred Qualifications and Skills
  • Experience with deep-UV, excimer, or high-power laser systems.
  • Background in semiconductor lithography optics, directed energy, or high-energy laser applications.
  • Demonstrated ability to shape technical strategy and communicate to senior leadership.
  • Experience leading capital projects and developing high-performing teams.
  • Track record of innovation through publications, patents, or product impact.

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is $147,037.00 - $202,176.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. 

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.

Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.

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