1

Laser Physics Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

DEW Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

Deep expertise in laser physics, electromagnetics, RF/HPM effects, and energy propagation. * Experience with system design, physics-based modeling, and simulation of complex defense architectures.

DEW Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

Deep expertise in laser physics, electromagnetics, RF/HPM effects, and energy propagation. * Experience with system design, physics-based modeling, and simulation of complex defense architectures.

DEW Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

Deep expertise in laser physics, electromagnetics, RF/HPM effects, and energy propagation. * Experience with system design, physics-based modeling, and simulation of complex defense architectures.

Physics & Optics Application:Apply principles of physics and optics to evaluate the performance of electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, laser warning receivers, and directed energy ...

Data Analytics Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$80K - $128K/yr

Physics & Optics Application: Apply principles of physics and optics to evaluate the performance of electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, laser warning receivers, and directed energy ...

Data Analytics Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$80K - $128K/yr

Physics & Optics Application: Apply principles of physics and optics to evaluate the performance of electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, laser warning receivers, and directed energy ...

Data Analytics Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$80K - $128K/yr

Physics & Optics Application: Apply principles of physics and optics to evaluate the performance of electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, laser warning receivers, and directed energy ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Laser Physics information

What does a laser physicist do?

Laser physicists study the principles and applications of lasers, which are devices that emit light through a process of optical amplification. Their work involves researching how lasers interact with matter, developing new laser technologies, and finding innovative uses for lasers in fields such as medicine, industry, telecommunications, and scientific research. Laser physicists often work in laboratories, designing experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with engineers and other scientists to advance our understanding and usage of laser technology.

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

To thrive as a Laser Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, optics, and mathematics, typically supported by a Ph.D. or advanced degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with laser systems, optical instrumentation, computational modeling, and safety protocols is essential, along with experience using tools like MATLAB or LabVIEW. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set outstanding professionals apart. These skills are crucial for advancing research, ensuring experimental accuracy, and collaborating effectively on complex scientific projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in laser physics research and development?

Professionals in laser physics often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex optical setups, maintaining precise alignment and calibration of laser systems, and addressing unexpected experimental results. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—such as engineers, material scientists, and software developers—is common, requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills. Additionally, keeping up with rapid technological advancements and ensuring safety standards in laboratory environments are ongoing aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Laser Physics vs Optical Engineer?

AspectLaser PhysicsOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, specialized laser certificationsEngineering degree, optics certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, laser manufacturingProduct development, optical system design, manufacturing
Industry UsageResearch institutions, laser companiesTech companies, aerospace, telecommunications

Laser Physics focuses on understanding and developing laser systems through research and theoretical work, while Optical Engineers apply optical principles to design and implement practical optical devices and systems. Both roles often overlap in industry and require similar educational backgrounds, but their primary focus differs: one on fundamental science, the other on application and engineering.

What are popular job titles related to Laser Physics jobs in Alabama?

For Laser Physics jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laser Physics jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Physics jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Laser Physics jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Laser Physics job openings:

Infographic showing various Laser Physics job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution.

External Job Posting Title DEW Systems Engineer

Peraton

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$135 - $216/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct modeling and simulation of foreign directed energy weapon systems, including laser, RF, and HPM architectures.

  • Perform scientific and engineering analyses to assess atmospheric propagation, adaptive optics, beam combining, thermal blooming, RF propagation, radar interactions, and optical sensor effects.

  • Develop and evaluate system designs, engagement scenarios, and target coupling effects for foreign DEW capabilities.


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 226 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly specialized Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) Subject Matter Expert (SME) with deep expertise in laser, RF, and high-power microwave (HPM) modeling to directly support the MSIC DEW team.

This is a senior-level, technical leadership role requiring recognized expertise in directed energy systems, global technology trends, and foreign capability development. The selected candidate will serve as the principal authority for DEW modeling, simulation, system design, and analytic deliverables to further understanding of foreign directed energy weapons.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct modeling and simulation (M&S) of foreign directed energy weapon systems, including laser, RF, and HPM architectures.
  • Perform scientific and engineering analyses to assess atmospheric propagation, adaptive optics, beam combining, thermal blooming, RF propagation, radar interactions, and optical sensor effects.
  • Develop and evaluate system designs, engagement scenarios, and target coupling effects for foreign DEW capabilities.
  • Translate technical intelligence, research findings, and threat reporting into defensible modeling assumptions and simulation parameters.
  • Maintain awareness of global DEW technology trends, emerging advancements, and foreign nation development efforts.
  • Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and oversight to engineering and analytic staff.
  • Deliver interim and final analytic reports in accordance with IC tradecraft standards and provide structured data products suitable for MSIC knowledge management systems.
Qualifications

Minimum of 8 years with BS/BA; Minimum of 6 years with MS/MA; Minimum of 3 years with PhD

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, Optics, or related discipline (MS/PhD preferred).
  • Minimum 3+ years of directly relevant experience in directed energy systems with laser/RF/HPM modeling focus.
  • Advanced proficiency in physics-based modeling tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, or equivalent platforms).
  • Experience supporting defense, intelligence, or national security programs.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with ability to obtain and maintain a polygraph.

Desired Qualifications

  • Deep expertise in laser physics, electromagnetics, RF/HPM effects, and energy propagation.
  • Experience with system design, physics-based modeling, and simulation of complex defense architectures.
  • Strong understanding of the global directed energy capability landscape and adversary developments.
  • Exceptional technical writing, documentation, and briefing skills.
Target Salary Range

$135,000 - $216,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

EEO

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What Peraton employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Peraton logo

About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017