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Laser Process Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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FPGA - DSP Engineer

Golden, CO · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

... processing, precision timing, and the physics of lasers, resonators, atoms, and photonic systems ... They will work closely with physicists, electrical engineers, and systems engineers to develop ...

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FPGA - DSP Engineer

Golden, CO · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

... processing, precision timing, and the physics of lasers, resonators, atoms, and photonic systems ... They will work closely with physicists, electrical engineers, and systems engineers to develop ...

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Develop and implement statistical models, SPC charts, capability analyses, and process controls.

As a Principal Materials & Processes Engineer at Ursa Major, you are a recognized technical leader ... laser powder bed fusion, and process qualification. * Expertise in joining methods, such as TIG ...

Principal Systems Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$100K - $172K/yr

From high-energy directed laser systems to satellite optics and hypersonic thermal protection ... Knowledge of optical and mechanical materials and fabrication processes * Proficiency in using ...

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Develop and implement statistical models, SPC charts, capability analyses, and process controls.

Mechanical Quality Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Develop and implement statistical models, SPC charts, capability analyses, and process controls.

Mechanical Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$96K - $130K/yr

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Devise, design and build robust tooling and process equipment suitable for reliable high-volume ...

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Develop and implement statistical models, SPC charts, capability analyses, and process controls.

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Responsibilities include hardware integration and test as well as data processing and preparation ...

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Devise, design and build robust tooling and process equipment suitable for reliable high-volume ...

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Devise, design and build robust tooling and process equipment suitable for reliable high-volume ...

Mechanical Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$96K - $130K/yr

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Devise, design and build robust tooling and process equipment suitable for reliable high-volume ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jun 9, 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 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 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 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 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:
Optical Systems Engineer with Security Clearance

Optical Systems Engineer with Security Clearance

ARETE ASSOCIATES, INC.

Niwot, CO • On-site

$145K - $187K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

At Areté, we are on the forefront of utilizing innovative solutions, with great minds from all backgrounds, to help solve the nation's most complex security challenges. We strive for an inclusive, collaborative team environment that approaches differences as opportunities for innovation and excellence. As an employee-owned company, we foster an atmosphere that propels diverse career opportunities and professional growth. Discover your future with us. As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will assist in designing and building solid-state, semiconductor, fiber laser, and optical systems; modeling and simulating laser and optical performance; planning measurements, diagnostics, and experiments; acquiring laser and optical performance data; analyzing experimental data; validating theories on system performance through measurement and analysis; and conducting research and development related to lasers and electro-optical systems. You will also develop and document diagnostics and processes for laser and optical system evaluation and fabrication, as well as develop component specifications, tolerances, simulations, and test procedures. This is a full-time, exempt, non-supervisory position, located in our Niwot, CO office. Primary responsibilities: * Drives technical research for laser and sensor development programs
  • Manage proposals for pursuits of new science and technology business
  • Prepares calculations, models, and simulations to predict laser system performance
  • Analyzes collected experimental data to assess laser system performance
  • Develops laser and optical system specifications
  • Works with manufacturing and engineering staff to support design
  • Assembles, aligns, and tests lasers and optical system systems
  • Documents designs, procedures, and performance
  • Designs optical fixturing and tests to support laser and optical system alignment, construction, and performance verification
  • Inspects optical component and systems
  • Prepares and presents technical briefings
  • Participates in design reviews and maintains documentation of resulting system design
  • Prepares electrical and optical hardware for demonstrations and experiments
  • Plans and executes field tests and demonstrations of prototype hardware electro-optical systems and components
  • Supports proposal preparation for new technical work
  • Principal investigator for DoD research and development projects.
  • Submits technical proposals for research and development programs.
  • Additional duties as assigned.
We have an impressive range of benefits, programs, and perks that we offer: Health & Wellness: * Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Life and Long-Term Disability (LTD)
  • Vision Reimbursement
Fitness Reimbursement Financial: Company-funded 5% contribution to your 401(k) retirement plan
  • Company-funded 5% contribution to your Employee Stock Ownership Plan
Continuing Education Assistance Work-Life Balance: Flexible Scheduling
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
Paid Parental and Bereavement Leave What We Value: Creativity and innovation in solving challenges
  • Integrity and responsibility in all actions
  • Collaboration across teams and specialties
  • Responsiveness in fast-paced environments
  • Passion for national security and excellence
Experiences and Background We Look For (Required Skills): * Proficient theoretical understanding of laser physics, optics, and design approaches
  • Demonstrated capability in hardware build and test
  • Experience in the execution of DoD funded research and development programs
  • Appreciation of both technical and business constraints for development projectsIntellectual curiosity and desire for continuous learning
  • Entrepreneurial
  • Quickly understands overall project objectives and selects best suited solutions
  • Skilled and innovative problem solver
  • Works well independently and as part of a team
  • Strong work ethic
  • Detail oriented
  • Inquisitive and provides critical review of technical work by peers
  • Responsive to technical questions and review from peers and technical management
  • Comfortable in adapting to support a wide variety of roles to support different types of laser, lidar, and optical system development projects.
  • Proficient use of standard MS Office software (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
  • Proficient in use of standard electrical and optical test equipment operation (e.g. oscilloscopes, signal generators, laser sources, spectrometers, detectors, etc.).
  • Proficient in Matlab, Mathematica, Python, or other scientific computing language
  • Possesses basic understanding of optical detectors and radiometry
  • Capable of developing models and simulations of laser dynamics to support optical designs
  • Capable of developing code to process collected sensor data
Independently perform research of available literature to fill in knowledge gaps as needed Nice to Have (Preferred Skills): Remote sensing systems (visible, IR, lidar)
  • Experience with COMSOL, Zemax, Ansys, Solidworks, CREO, or other design software
  • Active security clearance
The salary range for this role depends on the candidate's level of experience: * Engineer 2: $95,000 - $120,000 [required BS +2/MS degree or higher]
  • Staff Engineer: $115,000 - $140,000 [experience of BS+2 years, OR MS+0 years]
  • Senior Engineer: $135,000 - $177,000 [experience of BS+5 years, MS+3 years, or PhD+ years]
Arete considers several factors when extending an offer of employment, including but not limited to the position and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills. Other Considerations Areté is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and nondiscrimination, and we believe every person has the right to be treated with fairness, dignity, and equal consideration. Areté is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. U.S. citizenship is required to meet position eligibility. Successful passage of a criminal background screen is required to meet position eligibility. Selected applicants will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Areté will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring. Successful passage of a Department of Transportation (DOT) drug test is required to meet position eligibility. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our website because of your disability. To request an accommodation, please contact Areté Human Resources at 818-885-2200 for assistance.