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Laser Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Atom Computing

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

This position is tailored for PhD-level physicists or optical scientists focused on optoelectronics, optical cavities and modulators, and laser physics. Prior experience in neutral atom trapping or ...

Atom Computing

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

This position is tailored for PhD-level physicists or optical scientists focused on optoelectronics, optical cavities and modulators, and laser physics. Prior experience in neutral atom trapping or ...

Atom Computing

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

This position is tailored for PhD-level physicists or optical scientists focused on optoelectronics, optical cavities and modulators, and laser physics. Prior experience in neutral atom trapping or ...

Tekla Research

Research Physicist

Washington, DC · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

Seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Physicist with a strong background in optics to conduct cutting-edge research in advanced optical materials, nonlinear optics and high-power laser ...

ASML

Senior Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

Senior Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer Introduction to the job ASML US, including its affiliates and subsidiaries, bring together the most creative minds in science and technology to develop ...

xLight Inc.

Computational Physicist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Director, Accelerator Physics About xLight xLight is building the world's most powerful laser to ... Our approach is to harness the power of free-electron lasers by building on accelerator technology ...

New

Fuse

Laser Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Work with physics and electrical engineering teams to integrate laser systems with the broader pulsed-power platform. * Develop and maintain safe operating procedures for high-power laser systems and ...

HRB

Research Physicist

Washington, DC · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

Seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Physicist with a strong background in optics to conduct cutting-edge research in advanced optical materials, nonlinear optics and high-power laser ...

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Laser Physicist information

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do laser physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser physicist in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 photonics. Gaining experience through research, internships, or laboratory work, along with developing skills in optics, laser systems, and experimental techniques, is essential for advancing in this field.

How much do laser physicists make?

Laser physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $130,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills in optics, laser systems, and research can lead to higher compensation, especially in industrial or research settings.
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Laser Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Physicist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO • On-site

Atom Computing
IT Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Atom Computingexternal

$160K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform theoretical modeling, prototyping, and experimental validation of optical devices to develop hardware for scaling quantum processors.

  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to integrate new optical technologies into quantum computers.

  • Analyze experimental results and communicate insights to inform hardware design.

Job description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.
 
We are seeking an Optical Physicist to develop the next generation of optical devices required to scale our quantum computers. In this role, you will conceptualize, model, and prototype optical devices with fundamentally new modes of operation. Working with a talented team of engineers, you will rigorously qualify these devices and integrate them into state-of-the-art quantum computers.
 
This position is tailored for PhD-level physicists or optical scientists focused on optoelectronics, optical cavities and modulators, and laser physics. Prior experience in neutral atom trapping or cold atom physics is not required.
Responsibilities
  • Perform theoretical modeling (both analytical and numerical), prototyping, and experimental validation to translate novel optical concepts into deployable hardware for scaling quantum processors.
  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of experimental physicists, quantum theorists, optical engineers, and hardware and software engineers to integrate new technologies into our quantum computers.
  • Analyze experimental findings and communicate insights to guide hardware design.
  • Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.
Required Qualifications
  • Education: Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Optical Sciences, or a closely related discipline with a strong focus on experimental optics
  • Deep theoretical and experimental mastery of advanced optical physics (e.g., optical cavities, frequency combs, optical modulators, or nonlinear optics)
  • Proven experience designing, building, and characterizing complex experimental optical setups from first principles
  • Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with a diverse team of scientists and engineers
Preferred Qualifications
  • Postdoctoral or industry experience in electro-optics, precision optics, or laser physics
  • Proficiency with Python and Git for experimental automation, control, and data analysis
  • Experience working in a fast-paced hardware development or start-up environment

Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents. Additionally, we offer unlimited paid time off, 401(k) company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance. We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices every day!

The base salary range for this position is between $160,000 - $185,000 commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and incentive stock options for equity in the company.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.