PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field (exceptional MS candidates considered) * 10+ years of hands‑on experience designing and building laser systems Skills
PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field (exceptional MS candidates considered) * 10+ years of hands‑on experience designing and building laser systems Skills
Scientist - Applied Laser Physics
Lake Forest, CA · On-site
$125K - $140K/yr
The Scientist of Applied Laser Physics is responsible for managing laser-based diagnostic systems and the interpretation of resulting data to extract key plasma parameters such as density ...
New
Scientist - Applied Laser Physics
Lake Forest, CA · On-site
$125K - $140K/yr
The Scientist of Applied Laser Physics is responsible for managing laser-based diagnostic systems and the interpretation of resulting data to extract key plasma parameters such as density ...
New
Applied Physicist - EO/IR, Quantum Sensors, Optics & Atmospheric with Security Clearance
Washington, DC · On-site
Senior Physicist / Applied Physicist - EO/IR, Quantum Sensors, Optics & Atmospheric Modeling ... If your expertise includes optics, photonics, laser systems, atmospheric propagation, quantum ...
Applied Physicist - EO/IR, Quantum Sensors, Optics & Atmospheric with Security Clearance
Washington, DC · On-site
Senior Physicist / Applied Physicist - EO/IR, Quantum Sensors, Optics & Atmospheric Modeling ... If your expertise includes optics, photonics, laser systems, atmospheric propagation, quantum ...
Laser Engineer
Wilmington, NC · On-site
The Laser Engineer will work closely with other Laser Engineering personnel as well as Operations, Process Physics, Mechanical Engineering, and other staff to integrate their work into larger program ...
Laser Engineer
Wilmington, NC · On-site
The Laser Engineer will work closely with other Laser Engineering personnel as well as Operations, Process Physics, Mechanical Engineering, and other staff to integrate their work into larger program ...
Laser Engineer
Wilmington, NC · On-site
The Laser Engineer will work closely with other Laser Engineering personnel as well as Operations, Process Physics, Mechanical Engineering, and other staff to integrate their work into larger program ...
Laser Engineer
Wilmington, NC · On-site
The Laser Engineer will work closely with other Laser Engineering personnel as well as Operations, Process Physics, Mechanical Engineering, and other staff to integrate their work into larger program ...
Research Physicist with Security Clearance
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 ...
Research Physicist with Security Clearance
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 ...
Senior Laser & SOA Characterization Engineer
Mountain View, CA · On-site
$123K - $169K/yr
This role requires strong hands-on lab expertise, deep understanding of laser physics and semiconductor device behavior, and the ability to connect measured device performance to design, packaging ...
Senior Laser & SOA Characterization Engineer
Mountain View, CA · On-site
$123K - $169K/yr
This role requires strong hands-on lab expertise, deep understanding of laser physics and semiconductor device behavior, and the ability to connect measured device performance to design, packaging ...
We are hiring a Laser Design Engineer to join our laser module development team. In this role, you ... Use physics-based and traveling-wave simulation tools to model heterostructure and cavity behavior ...
We are hiring a Laser Design Engineer to join our laser module development team. In this role, you ... Use physics-based and traveling-wave simulation tools to model heterostructure and cavity behavior ...
Senior Laser & SOA Characterization Engineer
Mountain View, CA · On-site
$130K - $174K/yr
This role requires strong hands-on lab expertise, deep understanding of laser physics and semiconductor device behavior, and the ability to connect measured device performance to design, packaging ...
Senior Laser & SOA Characterization Engineer
Mountain View, CA · On-site
$130K - $174K/yr
This role requires strong hands-on lab expertise, deep understanding of laser physics and semiconductor device behavior, and the ability to connect measured device performance to design, packaging ...
Senior Laser Design & Simulation Engineer
Fremont, CA · On-site
$134K - $184K/yr
This role focuses on laser physics, device modeling, simulation, and experimental correlation in support of product and technology development activities. The successful candidate will work as an ...
Senior Laser Design & Simulation Engineer
Fremont, CA · On-site
$134K - $184K/yr
This role focuses on laser physics, device modeling, simulation, and experimental correlation in support of product and technology development activities. The successful candidate will work as an ...
Scientist - Applied Laser Physics
Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site
$125K - $140K/yr
Maintain laser safety protocols and operational reliability across campaigns. * Participate in experimental planning and contribute insights to broader physics interpretation efforts. * Ensure data ...
Scientist - Applied Laser Physics
Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site
$125K - $140K/yr
Maintain laser safety protocols and operational reliability across campaigns. * Participate in experimental planning and contribute insights to broader physics interpretation efforts. * Ensure data ...
Senior Laser Engineer 2
San Antonio, TX · On-site
Deep expertise in laser physics and laser system operation, including CW and pulsed laser sources. * Strong background in optical system design, free-space and fiber-based optical architectures, and ...
Senior Laser Engineer 2
San Antonio, TX · On-site
Deep expertise in laser physics and laser system operation, including CW and pulsed laser sources. * Strong background in optical system design, free-space and fiber-based optical architectures, and ...
Physicist
Fremont, CA · On-site
Our devices use frequency-stabilized lasers and atoms in a vacuum cell to measure accelerations ... As a Physicist at AOSense, you will apply your experience in laser technology and atomic physics to ...
Physicist
Fremont, CA · On-site
Our devices use frequency-stabilized lasers and atoms in a vacuum cell to measure accelerations ... As a Physicist at AOSense, you will apply your experience in laser technology and atomic physics to ...
Physicist
Fremont, CA · On-site
Our devices use frequency-stabilized lasers and atoms in a vacuum cell to measure accelerations ... As a Physicist at AOSense, you will apply your experience in laser technology and atomic physics to ...
Quick apply
Physicist
Fremont, CA · On-site
Our devices use frequency-stabilized lasers and atoms in a vacuum cell to measure accelerations ... As a Physicist at AOSense, you will apply your experience in laser technology and atomic physics to ...
Physicist
Fremont, CA · On-site
Our devices use frequency-stabilized lasers and atoms in a vacuum cell to measure accelerations ... As a Physicist at AOSense, you will apply your experience in laser technology and atomic physics to ...
Physicist
Fremont, CA · On-site
Our devices use frequency-stabilized lasers and atoms in a vacuum cell to measure accelerations ... As a Physicist at AOSense, you will apply your experience in laser technology and atomic physics to ...
Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is looking for an Experimental Atomic Physicist to support our ... Laser cooling and trapping of alkaline‑earth atoms * Diode lasers and optical frequency combs
Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is looking for an Experimental Atomic Physicist to support our ... Laser cooling and trapping of alkaline‑earth atoms * Diode lasers and optical frequency combs
OPTICAL ENGINEER III - FIBER LASER
West Springfield, MA · On-site
$125K - $145K/yr
The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience with optical fiber and laser systems, solid knowledge of fiber laser physics, and the ability to use optical and electrical test equipment to ...
OPTICAL ENGINEER III - FIBER LASER
West Springfield, MA · On-site
$125K - $145K/yr
The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience with optical fiber and laser systems, solid knowledge of fiber laser physics, and the ability to use optical and electrical test equipment to ...
AMO Quantum Physicist
Louisville, CO · On-site
$150K - $190K/yr
AMO Quantum Physicist Type: Full Time Location: Hybrid - Louisville, CO Quantum Physicist, Neutral ... Lead or contribute to research and development efforts involving laser systems, quantum processing ...
AMO Quantum Physicist
Louisville, CO · On-site
$150K - $190K/yr
AMO Quantum Physicist Type: Full Time Location: Hybrid - Louisville, CO Quantum Physicist, Neutral ... Lead or contribute to research and development efforts involving laser systems, quantum processing ...
Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is looking for an Experimental Atomic Physicist to support our ... Laser cooling and trapping of alkaline-earth atoms * Diode lasers and optical frequency combs
Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is looking for an Experimental Atomic Physicist to support our ... Laser cooling and trapping of alkaline-earth atoms * Diode lasers and optical frequency combs
Experimental Atomic Physicist
Washington, DC · On-site
$130K - $150K/yr
Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is looking for an Experimental Atomic Physicist to support our ... Laser cooling and trapping of alkaline-earth atoms * Diode lasers and optical frequency combs
Experimental Atomic Physicist
Washington, DC · On-site
$130K - $150K/yr
Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is looking for an Experimental Atomic Physicist to support our ... Laser cooling and trapping of alkaline-earth atoms * Diode lasers and optical frequency combs
Laser Physicist information
See salary details
$39.5K - $56.5K
19% of jobs
$59.4K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$56.5K - $73.5K
36% of jobs
$73.5K - $90.5K
11% of jobs
$103.6K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$90.5K - $107.5K
13% of jobs
$107.5K - $124.5K
8% of jobs
$124.5K - $141.5K
5% of jobs
$141.5K - $158.5K
3% of jobs
$158.5K - $175.5K
2% of jobs
$175.5K - $192.5K
1% of jobs
$192.5K - $209.5K
1% of jobs
$209.5K - $226.5K
1% of jobs
$39.5K
$94.8K
$226.5K
How much do laser physicist jobs pay per year?
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?
How much do laser physicists make?
What cities are hiring for Laser Physicist jobs?
Cities with the most Laser Physicist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Laser Physicist jobs?
The most popular types of Laser Physicist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Laser Physicist jobs?
The top employers for Laser Physicist jobs are:
What states have the most Laser Physicist jobs?
States with the most job openings for Laser Physicist jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Laser Physicist jobs?
For Laser Physicist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Senior Laser Scientist New Laser Development
San Diego, CA • On-site
Other
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO
Posted 5 days ago
Job description
Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Senior Laser Scientist New Laser Development. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands‑on role for a self‑starter who thrives in a fluid startup environment. You'll have the opportunity to work on cutting edge technologies, work closely with leadership, and develop and implement engineering practices that support our mission and growth. Your key responsibilities are as follows:
- Architect and developnew laser platformsfrom concept through prototype and early productization
- External cavity lasers(free-space and fiber-based)
- Fiber lasers and amplifiers
- Define optical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical requirements for new laser systems
- Perform and guide:
- Optical design and modeling
- Cavity design, mode control, linewidth and noise optimization
- Wavelength tuning, stabilization, and control
- Design and execute experiments to characterize:
- Linewidth, phase noise, RIN
- SMSR, tuning range, power, efficiency
- Environmental sensitivity (temperature, vibration, aging)
- Drive technology trade studies and down-select architectures based on performance, manufacturability, and cost
- Collaborate closely with:
- Photonics integration and packaging teams
- Electronics and control systems engineers
- Reliability and manufacturing engineering
- Mentor senior and junior engineers; set technical direction and best practices
- Author technical documentation, invention disclosures, and peer-reviewed publications as appropriate
- Support transition of designs to production, including design for test and design for manufacturability
Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Senior Laser Scientist New Laser Development. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands‑on role for a self‑starter who thrives in a fluid startup environment. You'll have the opportunity to work on cutting edge technologies, work closely with leadership, and develop and implement engineering practices that support our mission and growth. Your key responsibilities are as follows:
- Architect and developnew laser platformsfrom concept through prototype and early productization
- Lead laser design across multiple architectures:
- External cavity lasers(free-space and fiber-based)
- Fiber lasers and amplifiers
- Semiconductor lasers(DFB, DBR, FP, ECL gain chips)
- Define optical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical requirements for new laser systems
- Perform and guide:
- Optical design and modeling
- Cavity design, mode control, linewidth and noise optimization
- Wavelength tuning, stabilization, and control
- Design and execute experiments to characterize:
- Linewidth, phase noise, RIN
- SMSR, tuning range, power, efficiency
- Environmental sensitivity (temperature, vibration, aging)
- Drive technology trade studies and down-select architectures based on performance, manufacturability, and cost
- Collaborate closely with:
- Photonics integration and packaging teams
- Electronics and control systems engineers
- Reliability and manufacturing engineering
- Mentor senior and junior engineers; set technical direction and best practices
- Author technical documentation, invention disclosures, and peer-reviewed publications as appropriate
- Support transition of designs to production, including design for test and design for manufacturability
Requirements
- This position requires access to export-controlled information. Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a U.S. person as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3)
Experience
- PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field (exceptional MS candidates considered)
- 10+ years of hands‑on experience designing and building laser systems
Skills
- Deep expertise in at least two of the following:
- External cavity laser architectures
- Fiber lasers and fiber amplifiers
- Semiconductor laser design and physics
- Strong understanding of:
- Laser physics and cavity dynamics
- Noise processes (linewidth, phase noise, RIN)
- Thermal effects and opto‑mechanical stability
- Proven experience taking laser concepts from lab demonstration to robust prototype
- Comfortable working hands‑on in the lab (optical benches, fiber splicing, diagnostics)
Preferred Skills
- Experience withnarrow linewidth,low‑noise, orwidely tunablelasers
Background in one or more application areas:
- Telecommunications
- LIDAR
- Sensing or metrology
- Quantum, atomic, or coherent optical systems
Familiarity with:
- PIC-based lasers or hybrid integration
- Control loops, frequency locking, and stabilization techniques
- Reliability, lifetime testing, and environmental qualification
- Track record of patents or high‑impact publications
Startup Mindset
- You're creative, flexible, and eager to wear multiple hats.
- You're passionate about building systems from the ground up and comfortable with ambiguity and change
Benefits
The expected annual salary range for this position is $125,000-$175,000.
As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for Monarch's comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
- Fidelity 401(k) plan with 4% employer matching
- 20 paid time off (PTO) days per year
- 13 paid company holidays
- 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off)
Monarch Quantum is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, veteran status or any other characteristics protected under applicable federal, state and local laws.