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Laser Physicist Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Fibertek, Inc

Program Chief Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Leadership and mentoring of a diverse and extremely talented program team of engineers and scientists with expertise across related disciplines including laser physics, electro-optics, systems ...

Fibertek Inc

Program Chief Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Leadership and mentoring of a diverse and extremely talented program team of engineers and scientists with expertise across related disciplines including laser physics, electro‑optics, systems ...

Utilicom

Program Chief Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Leadership and mentoring of a diverse and extremely talented program team of engineers and scientists with expertise across related disciplines including laser physics, electro-optics, systems ...

New

FIBERTEK, INC.

Program Chief Engineer

Herndon, VA

$200K - $250K/yr

Leadership and mentoring of a diverse and extremely talented program team of engineers and scientists with expertise across related disciplines including laser physics, electro-optics, systems ...

FIBERTEK, INC.

Program Chief Engineer

Herndon, VA

$200K - $250K/yr

Leadership and mentoring of a diverse and extremely talented program team of engineers and scientists with expertise across related disciplines including laser physics, electro-optics, systems ...

Fibertek

Program Chief Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

... laser physics, electro-optics, systems engineering, electronics, signal processing, and others Leadership of teams through major technical decisions and analyses that have a high impact on program ...

FIBERTEK, INC.

Program Chief Engineer

Herndon, VA

$200K - $250K/yr

Leadership and mentoring of a diverse and extremely talented program team of engineers and scientists with expertise across related disciplines including laser physics, electro-optics, systems ...

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

... laser terminals including optical inter-satellite links (OISL) and direct to earth links. Fibertek ... Experience and expertise required: BS in Physics, Optical engineering or other related engineering ...

Fibertek

Aerospace Payload Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA

$90K - $160K/yr

At Fibertek, space-based lasers are our specialty - we develop cutting-edge, one-of-a-kind lasers ... A bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or optics 5 years of relevant experience preferred ...

Fibertek, Inc

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

Job Requirements Experience and expertise required: * BS in Physics, Optical engineering or other ... Knowledge of laser theory and industry best practices associated with fiber laser systems including ...

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All JobsLaser Physicist JobsLaser Physicist Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Laser Physicist information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$40.8K

$98K

$234.2K

How much do laser physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser physicist in Silver Spring, MD is $98,007.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,000.00 and $115,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laser physicist?

To thrive as a Laser Physicist, you need a strong background in physics or optical engineering, advanced mathematics, and hands-on experience with laser systems, usually supported by at least a master's or Ph.D. in a relevant field. Familiarity with simulation software, optical design tools (such as Zemax or COMSOL), and laser safety certifications is often required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help distinguish top candidates in collaborative research and development settings. These competencies are crucial for safely designing, operating, and optimizing complex laser systems in both industrial and academic environments.

How do you become a laser physicist?

To become a laser physicist, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in physics, optics, or a related field, followed by a master's or Ph.D. in laser physics or optical sciences. Gaining experience through research, internships, or laboratory work and developing skills in optics, laser systems, and experimental techniques are essential for this role.

What does a laser physicist do?

A Laser Physicist researches, develops, and applies laser technology for scientific, industrial, medical, or defense applications. They study laser generation, manipulation, and interactions with materials to enhance performance or discover new uses. Their work can involve designing laser systems, optimizing beam properties, and ensuring safety standards. They often collaborate with engineers and researchers to develop cutting-edge laser-based solutions.

What are popular job titles related to Laser Physicist jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Laser Physicist jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Laser Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Physicist job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,007 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Program Chief Engineer

Fibertek, Inc

Herndon, VA • On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Title
Program Chief Engineer
Location
Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary)
Job Description
Fibertek seeks a Program Chief Engineer to provide technical leadership for one or more programs in Fibertek's diverse technology portfolio of laser systems & technologies, lidar sensors, and laser communications systems. Fibertek is a recognized industry leader in delivering critical laser-based technologies that enable next generation missions for military and space applications. As a Program Chief Engineer you will provide technical leadership to advanced development programs through systematic engineering and delivery of first-of-kind systems for initial demonstration or qualification on operational airborne or space missions. This role will be the last line of authority for major program-level technical decisions and the first line of communication to customers and mission partners regarding Fibertek's technical approach and progress toward delivery.
Fibertek plans to hire multiple engineers for this position to lead programs across a rapidly growing portfolio, including fast-paced developments of spaceflight technologies and instruments. Program opportunities include:
  • Space LADAR: 2-year development and delivery of multiple compact space situational awareness LADAR instruments, with expected production transition to follow
  • Earth-sensing LIDAR Technologies: 2-year development and delivery of laser and beam control subsystems for NASA spaceflight missions
  • Space LADAR: Leadership of 2-year Assembly Integration and Test (AI&T) for the second-unit delivery of an existing proven LADAR transceiver design
  • Fiber Laser Systems and Technologies: multiple fiber laser and amplifier programs for space and airborne systems

Essential Job Duties:
The Program Chief Engineer will have high-impact responsibilities that include:
  • Technical leadership of select programs resulting in the successful delivery of laser-based systems and technologies that demonstrate new operational capabilities critical to national interests in defense and space exploration
  • Responsibility for verified compliance with all technical performance, environmental, and functional requirements
  • Support the Program Manager and company leadership to develop execution plans that are achievable, measurable, and reflect company and mission priorities
  • Representation of Fibertek serving as the main point of contact to customers and mission partners on system design and technical progress
  • Leadership and mentoring of a diverse and extremely talented program team of engineers and scientists with expertise across related disciplines including laser physics, electro-optics, systems engineering, electronics, signal processing, and others
  • Leadership of teams through major technical decisions and analyses that have a high impact on program success, including architecture development, design trades, anomaly resolution & troubleshooting, and system verification methods
  • Guidance and review of teams preparing for program milestone reviews including Preliminary and Critical Design Reviews, Test Readiness Reviews, Delivery and Acceptance Reviews, and/or other technical milestones
  • Provide input on the development and adoption of engineering tools and best-practices that enhance the efficiency and operational success of engineering development programs and incorporate design features that enable predictable manufacturing following initial development and demonstration

Job Requirements
Experience and Expertise Required:
  • Master's or PhD degree in a relevant engineering or applied-science field
  • >10 years professional experience including demonstrated success leading large and diverse technical teams in an engineering or technology-development organization
  • Specific experience engineering, qualifying, and delivering electro-optical systems for US space and/or military applications
  • Technical expertise in one or more of the following skill areas: laser systems, LIDAR sensors, optical communication systems, optical systems engineering, and/or qualification of systems and technologies for aerospace and defense
  • Familiarity with industry-standard engineering tools in one or more disciplines: requirements tracking and verification, model-based systems engineering, circuit design and simulation, thermal and structural analysis, optical design and tolerance analysis, and/or others
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to concisely articulate how technical solutions and maturation plans are innovative, technically credible, and responsive to current and emerging mission needs
  • US Citizenship and eligibility to obtain a US Security Clearance

Salary Range: The annual base salary range for this position is $200,000-$250,000. This range reflects the compensation Fibertek reasonably expects to offer for this role. Placement within the range will depend on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education and training, key skills, and relevant market and business considerations.
Benefits offered: The company provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; disability, life insurance, and AD&D; a 401(k) plan with a company match and immediate vesting; Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts; an Employee Assistance Program; education assistance; paid time off and holidays; flexible work schedules; and a 9/8/80 alternate workweek option.
FIBERTEK, Inc. is a recognized leader in advanced lasers, lidars and laser communication systems providing our DoD, NASA and aerospace customers discriminating capabilities. We pride ourselves in our innovation and customer success focused culture enabled by a creative and relaxed work environment. Fibertek fosters a progressive learning environment that values inspiration, promotes professional challenge and encourages personal growth. We offer a competitive and incentivized compensation package with excellent benefits.
Fibertek, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual merit, skills, and experience. Fibertek does not engage in nor permits any discrimination in the workplace.

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