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Laser Process Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

Process Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... As a Process Engineer, you are a technical leader responsible for the end-to-end process ...

nLIGHT

Process Engineer

Longmont, CO

$120K - $170K/yr

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... As a Process Engineer, you are a technical leader responsible for the end-to-end process ...

nLIGHT

Process Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... As a Process Engineer, you are a technical leader responsible for the end-to-end process ...

nLIGHT

Process Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... As a Process Engineer, you are a technical leader responsible for the end-to-end process ...

Xcimer Energy

Laser Physicist

Denver, CO · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

As a Laser Physicist, you will apply your expertise to design, build, modify, and operate both new ... process data, and collaborate closely with experimentalists, theorists, optics engineers, and ...

Xcimer Energy

Laser Physicist

Denver, CO · On-site

As a Laser Physicist, you will apply your expertise to design, build, modify, and operate both new ... process data, and collaborate closely with experimentalists, theorists, optics engineers, and ...

Xcimer Energy

Director of Laser Engineering

Denver, CO · On-site

$220K - $260K/yr

Establish engineering best practices, design review processes, technical documentation standards, and quality expectations for complex laser systems. * Identify technical risks across laser ...

Ring Inc

Director of Laser Engineering

Denver, CO · On-site

$190 - $220/hr

Establish engineering best practices, design review processes, technical documentation standards, and quality expectations for complex laser systems. * Identify technical risks across laser ...

Xcimer Energy

Laser Physicist

Denver, CO · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

As a Laser Physicist, you will apply your expertise to design, build, modify, and operate both new ... process data, and collaborate closely with experimentalists, theorists, optics engineers, and ...

Xcimer Energy

Laser Physicist

Denver, CO

$140K - $190K/yr

As a Laser Physicist, you will apply your expertise to design, build, modify, and operate both new ... process data, and collaborate closely with experimentalists, theorists, optics engineers, and ...

Xcimer Energy

Director of Laser Engineering

Denver, CO

$220K - $260K/yr

Establish engineering best practices, design review processes, technical documentation standards, and quality expectations for complex laser systems. * Identify technical risks across laser ...

Xcimer Energy

Laser and Optics Controller

Denver, CO · On-site

$44 - $52/hr

As an Laser and Optics Controller for Phoenix, you will apply your technical and operational skills ... Basic understanding of physical processes such as absorption, gain, scattering, and saturation.

Xcimer Energy

Laser and Optics Controller

Denver, CO · On-site

$44 - $52/hr

As an Laser and Optics Controller for Phoenix, you will apply your technical and operational skills ... Basic understanding of physical processes such as absorption, gain, scattering, and saturation.

Xcimer Energy

Laser and Optics Controller

Denver, CO

$44 - $52/hr

As an Laser and Optics Controller for Phoenix, you will apply your technical and operational skills ... Basic understanding of physical processes such as absorption, gain, scattering, and saturation.

Thorlabs

Laser Technician III

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$24.72 - $35/hr

... the engineering teams. Position involves minimum travel. Essential Job Functions include the ... Train junior technicians and contribute to process improvements. Follow cleanroom procedures and ...

Thorlabs

Laser Technician III

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$24.72 - $35/hr

... the engineering teams. Position involves minimum travel. Essential Job Functions include the ... The required PPE and training allow for the safe handling and processing of chemicals like ...

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All JobsLaser Process Engineer JobsLaser Process Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Laser Process Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$42.6K

$117.9K

$197.7K

How much do laser process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser process engineer in Colorado is $117,870.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,800.00 and $169,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a laser process engineer do?

A Laser Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting processes that use lasers in manufacturing or research environments. They work with laser systems to cut, weld, engrave, or modify materials, ensuring efficiency, quality, and safety. Their role often involves collaborating with design, production, and quality teams to implement and improve laser-based applications, as well as maintaining equipment and writing technical documentation. Laser Process Engineers may also conduct experiments to determine best practices and support the integration of new laser technologies.

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

To thrive as a Laser Process Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, physics, or engineering, often supported by a related bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with laser systems, CAD software, and process control tools, as well as certifications in laser safety, are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure precise process development, safe operation, and successful collaboration on high-precision manufacturing projects.

What are some typical challenges a laser process engineer faces when developing new laser applications?

Laser Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as optimizing process parameters to achieve precise results, ensuring consistent quality across different materials, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. Working closely with cross-functional teams—like design, quality, and manufacturing—is common to address these issues efficiently. Continuous learning is vital, as new laser technologies and materials frequently emerge, requiring ongoing adaptation and innovation. Successfully overcoming these challenges helps engineers advance to senior roles or specialize further within the field.

What is the difference between Laser Process Engineer vs Laser Manufacturing Technician?

AspectLaser Process EngineerLaser Manufacturing Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, certifications in laser technologyHigh school diploma or associate degree, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentDesign, optimize, and troubleshoot laser processes in labs or production settingsOperate and maintain laser equipment on the manufacturing floor
Industry UsageUsed across industries like aerospace, automotive, electronicsPrimarily in manufacturing plants for assembly and fabrication
Job FocusProcess development, improvement, and technical problem-solvingEquipment operation, routine maintenance, and quality checks

The main difference between a Laser Process Engineer and a Laser Manufacturing Technician lies in their roles and responsibilities. The engineer focuses on developing and optimizing laser processes, requiring higher education and technical expertise. In contrast, the technician operates and maintains laser equipment, often with less formal education but essential hands-on skills for daily manufacturing tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Laser Process Engineer jobs in Colorado?

For Laser Process Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laser Process Engineer jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Process Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

Laser Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Process Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,870 per year, or $56.7 per hour.

Process Engineer

nLIGHT

Longmont, CO • On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description
Location: Longmont, CO (onsite)
Experience: 5+ years of experience in leading process development in aerospace, defense, or high-power optics.
Minimum Education: Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Systems Engineering, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
Compensation: $120,000-$170,000 depending on experience.
Who We Are
nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is one of the nation's leading developers of Directed Energy systems, which is a top modernization priority of the Department of Defense. Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment of high energy laser solutions to the United States military and our allies. Located in Longmont, Colorado, nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is a vertically integrated business that leverages internal capabilities - from semiconductor device through target identification - to develop systems that are both high-performance and cost-effective. We continue to invest in capabilities, facilities and technology to bring leading edge HEL solutions to the warfighter. This is a great opportunity to work at a company that is on the leading edge of the HEL industry and provides a culture of excellence and commitment to delivering solutions to the warfighter and our country.
Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
Summary:
As a Process Engineer, you are a technical leader responsible for the end-to-end process architecture of our complex R&D systems. You will drive the implementation of advanced manufacturing strategies, ensuring that first-of-its-kind hardware is built with world-class precision. We are looking for a Black Belt who can solve chronic yield issues, influence design through DFM, and provide the foundational leadership to build a department from the ground up.
All applicants must possess or be qualified to obtain a U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Preference will be given to candidates with an existing U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Further information on requirements to obtain a security clearance is available at: https://www.dcsa.mil/mc/pv/mbi/gicp/. Please review this information before applying.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop scalable manufacturing processes and documentation, working directly with design teams to ensure high-performance systems are optimized for repeatable builds.
  • Lead DFM/DFA and DFSS initiatives to optimize manufacturability, yield, and production readiness.
  • Set the standard for company-wide process control (SPC or other) and MSA/GR&R protocols, ensuring all test and assembly equipment are fully qualified and capable.
  • Solve the integration challenges by applying structured problem-solving methodologies to R&D hardware.
  • Manage the lifecycle of specialized manufacturing tooling, including initial requirement definition to final qualification and ongoing calibration & maintenance.

Required Experience / Capability:
  • Commitment to Excellence. Attention to Detail. Pride in Workmanship.
  • 5+ years of experience in process development in aerospace, defense, or high-power optics.
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt required, Black Belt preferred.
  • Proven track record of applying DFM/DFSS to move R&D hardware into stable production.
  • Practical expertise in process control (SPC or other), MSA, and Gage R&R.
  • Demonstrated ability to navigate ambiguity and establish formal production rigor.

Benefits Summary:
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
  • 11 paid Holidays
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents
  • Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100%
  • Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting

Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is IllegalIf you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at [email protected]

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