ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Laser Process Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CivicMinds, Inc.

Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Founding Process Engineer with 5+ years of experience in III-V semiconductor laser processing to develop and optimize fabrication processes for InP ...

Samtec

Process Engineer

New Albany, IN

Experience with laser processing, resistance welding, materials processing, or related ... Work on challenging engineering problems with a high degree of ownership and visibility.

Samtec, Inc

Process Engineer

New Albany, IN

PROCESS ENGINEER Drive Innovation in Advanced Cable Manufacturing Join Samtec and Shape the Future ... Experience with laser processing, resistance welding, materials processing, or related ...

samtec

Process Engineer

New Albany, IN · On-site

Experience with laser processing, resistance welding, materials processing, or related ... Work on challenging engineering problems with a high degree of ownership and visibility.

Samtec

Process Engineer

New Albany, IN · On-site

Experience with laser processing, resistance welding, materials processing, or related ... Work on challenging engineering problems with a high degree of ownership and visibility.

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsLaser Process Engineer Jobs

Laser Process Engineer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$112.1K

$188K

How much do laser process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser process engineer in the United States is $112,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,500.00 and $161,500.00 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.

More about Laser Process Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Laser Process Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Laser Process Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Laser Process Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Laser Process Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Laser Process Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Process Engineer jobs are:
Laser Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Process Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $112,096 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Laser Process Development Engineer / Scientist

Corning

Hickory, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers

Job description

Requisition Number: 74794
The company built on breakthroughs.
Join us.
Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible.
How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations - not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward.
At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.
Come break through with us.
Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber and cable, hardware and equipment to being a comprehensive provider of industry-leading optical solutions across the broader communications industry.This segment is classified into two main product groupings - carrier network and enterprise network. The carrier network product group consists primarily of products and solutions for optical-based communications infrastructure for services such as video, data and voice communications. The enterprise network product group consists primarily of optical-based communication networks sold to businesses, governments and individuals for their own use.
Scope of Position
Corning is seeking a Laser Process Development Engineer/Scientist to support the early-stage development of advanced laser processes and optical solutions. This role is responsible for developing and improving new and existing laser-based processes through hands-on experimentation, prototype development, optical system design, automation, and data-driven process optimization.
This position is ideal for candidates who enjoy combining strong technical fundamentals with practical experimental execution to create scalable process innovations. We welcome applicants with relevant industry experience as well as candidates whose Master's or PhD research included direct, hands-on work in laser processing, optics, photonics, automation, or related process development.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and improve laser-based processes for potential deployment across Corning facilities worldwide
  • Build, refine, and evaluate lab-based benchtop and semi-automated prototype stations to demonstrate new process concepts
  • Apply knowledge of laser theory, laser platforms, optical systems, and light-material interaction to solve complex technical challenges
  • Design and develop optical systems, including free-space optics using refractive and reflective components
  • Establish process windows and operating ranges through structured experimentation, characterization, and analysis
  • Develop and execute task plans to meet project objectives, milestones, and deliverables
  • Define and document technical guidelines and best practices for process development activities
  • Collaborate with AR&D and Research teams to solve challenging cross-functional technical problems
  • Apply structured problem-solving methods, including MEE and other engineering analysis techniques
  • Analyze experimental data using statistical and process-analysis tools
  • Interpret results and recommend immediate actions, longer-term corrective actions, and follow-up experiments
  • Troubleshoot prototype equipment, tooling, and process-related issues
  • Document inventions, novel concepts, and technical innovations for potential patent submissions
  • Design, develop, and test tooling and fixtures to support new product development from prototyping through high-volume manufacturing

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Photonics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline
  • 2+ years of relevant experience in laser processing, optics, photonics, or related process development
  • Relevant Master's or PhD research experience may be considered toward this requirement
  • Understanding of laser theory, laser platforms, and light-material interaction
  • Understanding of optical theory and light propagation
  • Experience with hands-on experimental work, technical troubleshooting, and data interpretation
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Project
  • Demonstrated ability and willingness to learn and apply new technologies

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree or PhD in a relevant technical field
  • Experience in automation process development
  • Experience designing and building prototype equipment, lab systems, or semi-automated stations
  • Experience with SolidWorks, Creo, or similar 3D CAD tools
  • Familiarity with controls, instrumentation, and basic programming
  • Experience using DOE, SPC, Six Sigma, or other structured process analysis and control methods
  • Proficiency with Minitab, JMP, or advanced Excel-based data analysis
  • Familiarity with fiber optic theory, optical systems, or photonics applications
  • Experience translating laboratory, prototype, or research work into scalable manufacturing processes

What Will Make You Successful in This Role
  • You enjoy hands-on technical work and developing new process capability from the ground up
  • You are comfortable working in an experimental environment where learning comes through testing, iteration, and analysis
  • You can connect theory to application and use engineering fundamentals to solve real process challenges
  • You communicate clearly and work effectively across development, engineering, and research teams
  • You are motivated by innovation and excited to contribute to next-generation manufacturing and optical technologies

Candidate Backgrounds We Encourage
We welcome candidates from a range of backgrounds, including:
  • Engineers or scientists with industry experience in laser processing, optics, photonics, automation, or advanced manufacturing
  • Master's or PhD candidates whose graduate research involved relevant hands-on laboratory, equipment, or process development work
  • Candidates with experience in process development, optical system design, laser-material interaction, prototyping, or manufacturing technology development

Why Join Corning
This is an opportunity to work on advanced process technologies with the potential for global manufacturing impact. You'll contribute to the development of innovative laser-enabled solutions, collaborate with highly technical teams, and help bridge early-stage concepts into scalable process capability.
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $85,304.00 - $117,293.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.
A job that shapes a life.
Corning offers you the total package.
Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.
  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.
  • Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.

Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.
  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, Corning provides company matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan of up to 4% of pay when you contribute at least 6% of pay.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.

What Corning employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply