ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Laser Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

NSS

Fiber Laser Engineer / Technician

Herndon, VA

We are seeking an experienced Fiber Laser Systems Engineer / Technician to support the hands-on build, integration, and testing of advanced fiber laser systems in a research laboratory environment.

Fibertek, Inc

Solid-State Laser Systems Technician

Herndon, VA · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Title Solid-State Laser Systems Technician Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary) Join a team developing cutting-edge laser hardware for spaceflight applications and other mission ...

Thorlabs

Laser Technician I

Jessup, MD

$27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Build laser assemblies (fiber or free-space) according to assembly instructions. * Perform basic electronic soldering and crimping tasks in accordance with documented procedures and industry ...

Thorlabs

Laser Technician I

Jessup, MD · On-site

$27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Build laser assemblies (fiber or free-space) according to assembly instructions. * Perform basic electronic soldering and crimping tasks in accordance with documented procedures and industry ...

Thorlabs

Laser Technician I

Jessup, MD · On-site

$27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Build laser assemblies (fiber or free-space) according to assembly instructions. * Perform basic electronic soldering and crimping tasks in accordance with documented procedures and industry ...

Sev Laser

Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner - Full Time

Chevy Chase, MD · On-site

$65 - $80/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

SEV Laser is a fast-growing medical aesthetics brand with 60+ locations nationwide and continued ... Ability to meet physical demands of the role, including standing for extended periods and operating ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsLaser Operator JobsLaser Operator Jobs in Washington

Laser Operator information

See Washington salary details

$14

$22

$31

How much do laser operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser operator in Washington is $22.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laser operator?

Laser Operators are skilled professionals who operate laser cutting or engraving machines, typically in manufacturing or fabrication environments. They are responsible for setting up and calibrating laser equipment, loading materials, monitoring the cutting or engraving process, and ensuring the finished products meet quality standards. Laser Operators also perform routine maintenance on the machines and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. Their work is essential in industries such as metalworking, automotive, signage, and electronics.

What are some common challenges laser operators face when working with high-precision machinery?

Laser Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining tight tolerances, troubleshooting minor machine malfunctions, and ensuring material alignment for optimal cuts. Staying up-to-date with software updates and understanding different material properties are also crucial to avoid costly errors. Effective communication with team members in quality control and production planning is essential to meet project deadlines and maintain safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laser operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laser Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, blueprint reading, and machine operation, often with a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with CNC laser cutting machines, CAD/CAM software, and material handling systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you excel in this role. These competencies ensure precise production, machine safety, and efficient workflow in manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Laser Operator vs CNC Operator?

AspectLaser OperatorCNC Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, or certifications in laser cuttingHigh school diploma, technical training, or certifications in CNC machining
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or fabrication shops using laser cutting machinesManufacturing plants operating CNC machinery
Industry UsageCommon in metal, plastic, and fabric cutting industriesUsed across automotive, aerospace, and general manufacturing

Laser Operators and CNC Operators both work in manufacturing environments, often with similar certifications and skills. While Laser Operators focus on operating laser cutting machines, CNC Operators handle a broader range of computer-controlled machinery. Both roles are essential in precision manufacturing, but Laser Operators specialize in laser technology, whereas CNC Operators work with various CNC equipment.

How to become a laser operator?

To become a laser operator, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant training in operating laser cutting or engraving machines. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and obtaining certifications in laser safety or equipment operation can improve job prospects. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software and attention to safety protocols are also important.

Is being a laser operator hard?

Laser operators are responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining laser cutting or engraving machines, which requires attention to detail and technical skills. The job can involve working with complex equipment, following safety protocols, and sometimes working in shifts, but it generally depends on the individual's experience and the complexity of the tasks involved.

What is the role of a laser operator?

A laser operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining laser cutting or engraving machines to produce precise parts or designs. They interpret technical drawings, ensure safety protocols, and may need certifications in laser safety or equipment operation. The role requires attention to detail and knowledge of machine controls and materials.

What are popular job titles related to Laser Operator jobs in Washington?

For Laser Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laser Operator jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Operator jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Laser Operator jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Laser Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Laser Operator jobs in WA?

For Laser Operator jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Laser Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,883 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Fiber Laser Engineer / Technician

NSS

Herndon, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Fiber Laser Systems Engineer / Technician to support the hands-on build, integration, and testing of advanced fiber laser systems in a research laboratory environment. This role is critical to the successful execution of both prototype development efforts and formal deliverable systems.
This a long-term and permanent position supporting a 30+ year old company within the DOD and NASA space! This role is 100% onsite at headquarters located in Herndon, VA. (Relocation Bonus available!)
The resource will work closely with engineers and scientists, translating verbal direction, sketches, and partially defined procedures into high-quality hardware and repeatable lab work. This position is well-suited for a technician who has spent years in the lab, understands how research environments evolve, and takes pride in careful execution and mentoring through example.
Key Responsibilities
  • Independently assemble and integrate fiber laser subsystems and multi-stage fiber amplifiers
  • Perform complex fiber handling tasks including splicing, routing, and repair
  • Align optical components and fiber paths with minimal supervision
  • Support early-stage prototype builds where procedures may be incomplete or evolving
  • Execute formal build, acceptance, and qualification testing for deliverable systems
  • Interpret verbal instructions and informal documentation, and help translate them into repeatable build steps
  • Identify build risks, workmanship issues, or design-for-assembly concerns and communicate them to the technical team
  • Accurately document configurations, test results, and lab observations
  • Maintain lab organization, tooling, and best practices
  • Informally mentor junior technicians or new team members through example and guidance
Minimum Requirements
  • 5+ years of hands-on laboratory experience with fiber lasers, optical systems, or photonics hardware
  • Demonstrated experience supporting R&D or prototype development programs
  • Proven ability to work from verbal direction, sketches, and evolving requirements
  • Strong understanding of fiber handling, optical alignment, and laser safety practices
  • High attention to detail, workmanship, and documentation quality
Education
  • Bachelor’s degree, Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent hands-on experience
    (Degree is less important than relevant laboratory experience.)
Desired Qualifications
  • Experience transitioning systems from prototype builds to deliverable hardware
  • Experience with formal acceptance or qualification testing
  • Experience working in small research teams or government/defense-related programs
  • Comfort serving as a “go-to” lab resource for build best practice

NSS logo

About NSS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NSS RPO was founded by Jessica Nicholson and Conor Nicholson in 2009. They saw the need for a nice services company that valued their employees by putting them first. With Jessica’s organizational skills and strategy along with Conor’s network, the company employed 25 contract recruiters in less than a year and proceeded to make the Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest growing companies in America, three years in a row. Since its inception, NSS RPO has hired hundreds of recruiters in over 30 states. NSS RPO is proud to include among its clients eight of the ten largest government contractors, the world's largest job board, entertainment company and one of the nation’s largest banks. NSS RPO is your trusted provider of Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) solutions. Founded by an experienced recruiter and solely focused on RPO, NSS RPO offers a strong network of exceptional recruiters and customizable staffing solutions. Named to Washington Business Journal’s prestigious list of Top 25 Staffing Agencies seven years in a row, NSS RPO is known for its quality, agility, and expertise. If you have a recruitment staffing need at your organization, NSS RPO can customize a solution for you, no matter how big or small.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All NSS Jobs