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Laser Programmer Operator Jobs in Gaithersburg, MD

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA

Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead Position Overview We are seeking a Senior Solid ... Comfortable operating in high-visibility, mission-critical programs Why This Role Matters This role ...

Pro-Type Industries

CNC Laser Operator

Sterling, VA

$22 - $32/hr

Our Machinist CNC Laser Operator is a pivotal player in the production of finished products for ... Review work orders, blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and CNC programs prior to ...

Pro-Type Industries

CNC Laser Operator

Sterling, VA

$22 - $32/hr

Our Machinist CNC Laser Operator is a pivotal player in the production of finished products for ... Review work orders, blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and CNC programs prior to ...

asofttek

Mainframe Computer Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

Operate and monitor high-speed laser printers, impact printers, and bursters within a mainframe ... Load and replenish paper, toner, developer, and other required printing media. * Remove, organize ...

A.C. Coy

Mainframe Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$55.50 - $71.50/hr

Responsibilities The computer operator will be responsible for operating high-speed laser printers ... developer, and promptly removing and organizing completed print jobs for customer distribution.

A.C. Coy

Mainframe Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$55.50 - $71.50/hr

Responsibilities The computer operator will be responsible for operating high-speed laser printers ... developer, and promptly removing and organizing completed print jobs for customer distribution.

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Laser Programmer Operator information

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How much do laser programmer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser programmer operator in Gaithersburg, MD is $21.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.46 and $23.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laser programmer operator?

A Laser Programmer Operator is a skilled technician who programs and operates laser cutting machines to cut, engrave, or mark materials such as metal, plastic, or wood. They use specialized software to create or modify designs, set up the machine parameters, and monitor the cutting process to ensure accuracy and quality. Laser Programmer Operators are responsible for maintaining equipment, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring safety standards are met in the workplace.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laser programmer operator?

To thrive as a Laser Programmer Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, blueprint reading skills, and experience with CNC machinery, typically supported by vocational training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, laser cutting systems, and quality measurement tools is essential for programming and operating equipment efficiently. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication help ensure precision and safe workplace collaboration. These skills are crucial for maintaining production quality, minimizing errors, and optimizing manufacturing workflows.

What are some typical challenges faced by laser programmer operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Laser Programmer Operators often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex technical drawings, ensuring precise machine calibration, and troubleshooting equipment errors. Successfully managing these tasks requires strong attention to detail, familiarity with CAD/CAM software, and a proactive approach to machine maintenance. Collaborating closely with engineers and production teams can help clarify design requirements and streamline production, while ongoing training keeps operators updated on new technologies and best practices.

What is the difference between Laser Programmer Operator vs CNC Machinist?

AspectLaser Programmer OperatorCNC Machinist
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certification in laser technologyRequires technical training, certifications, or machining experience
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or fabrication shops with laser cutting equipmentMachine shops, manufacturing plants, or fabrication facilities
Industry UsageCommonly used in sheet metal, aerospace, signage, and automotive industriesUsed across various manufacturing sectors including aerospace, automotive, and industrial parts
Job FocusProgramming laser cutting machines for precise cuts and designsSetting up, operating, and maintaining CNC machines for machining parts

While both roles involve working with computer-controlled equipment, Laser Programmer Operators focus on programming laser cutting machines for precise fabrication, whereas CNC Machinists operate a broader range of CNC machines for manufacturing parts. Both require technical skills and familiarity with manufacturing environments, but their specific tasks and equipment differ.

What cities near Gaithersburg, MD are hiring for Laser Programmer Operator jobs?

Cities near Gaithersburg, MD with the most Laser Programmer Operator job openings:

Laser Programmer Operator jobs near you

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

NSS

Herndon, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Architect and lead development of advanced solid-state laser systems including oscillators, MOPA architectures, OPO/OPA systems, and frequency conversion stages.

  • Serve as the technical lead for laser subsystem programs, translating requirements into technical plans, and driving design reviews, risk assessments, and milestone execution.

  • Mentor and guide junior engineers and physicists, and coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure performance, reliability, and environmental robustness of laser systems.

Job description


Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead

Position Overview
We are seeking a Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead to drive the architecture, development, and delivery of advanced solid-state laser systems for airborne and space-based government aerospace programs.
This individual will serve as both a deep technical authority and a program catalyst — leading laser system design while motivating cross-functional teams to execute on aggressive technical milestones. The ideal candidate combines strong theoretical and modeling expertise with demonstrated experience pushing complex hardware programs from concept through integration and qualification.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership
  • Architect and lead development of advanced solid-state laser systems including:
    • Oscillators (linear and ring)
    • MOPA (Master Oscillator Power Amplifier) architectures
    • OPO/OPA systems
    • Single-frequency / narrow-linewidth lasers
    • Frequency conversion stages (SHG, THG, nonlinear mixing)
  • Own cavity design, gain modeling, thermal analysis, and system energetics
  • Lead nonlinear optics development and frequency conversion optimization
  • Guide LIDAR transmitter laser development for airborne and space platforms
  • Perform system-level optical modeling and tolerance analysis (Zemax)
  • Ensure performance, reliability, and environmental robustness
Program Execution & Team Leadership
  • Serve as technical lead for laser subsystem programs
  • Translate high-level requirements into executable technical plans
  • Drive design reviews, risk assessments, and milestone execution
  • Identify technical risks early and develop mitigation strategies
  • Mentor and guide junior optical engineers and physicists
  • Create a culture of technical rigor, accountability, and momentum
  • Coordinate with systems, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams
  • Support customer interactions and government technical reviews
Required Qualifications
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience in solid-state laser development (2–8+ years post-graduate experience depending on degree)
  • Demonstrated experience leading technical efforts or small engineering teams
  • Demonstrated deep expertise in at least one of the following areas:
    • Laser resonator stability and design
    • Gain media physics and thermal management
    • Nonlinear optics and frequency conversion
    • Single longitudinal mode and narrow-linewidth operation
  • Experience designing and modeling:
    • High peak power or high pulse energy systems
    • MOPA systems
    • Nonlinear frequency conversion, OPO/OPA architectures
  • Strong proficiency with optical modeling tools (e.g. Zemax)
  • Experience delivering hardware into airborne or space environments preferred
  • U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a security clearance
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience developing laser systems for LIDAR applications
  • Diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) laser expertise
  • Experience with environmental qualification (e.g. thermal, vibration, vacuum)
  • Radiation effects awareness for space-based systems
  • Experience working on DoD or aerospace prime contracts
  • Track record of taking laser systems from concept to flight qualification
Leadership Profile We’re Seeking
  • Naturally assumes ownership of technical outcomes
  • Drives momentum — does not wait for direction
  • Communicates clearly with engineers, management, and customers
  • Balances deep physics rigor with practical program execution
  • Mentors junior staff and raises overall team capability
  • Comfortable operating in high-visibility, mission-critical programs
Why This Role Matters
This role will directly shape next-generation airborne and space-based laser systems that support critical aerospace and national security missions. The right candidate will not only design exceptional laser architectures but will elevate the performance of the entire team.
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About NSS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NSS RPO was founded by Jessica Nicholson and Conor Nicholson in 2009. They saw the need for a nice services company that valued their employees by putting them first. With Jessica’s organizational skills and strategy along with Conor’s network, the company employed 25 contract recruiters in less than a year and proceeded to make the Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest growing companies in America, three years in a row. Since its inception, NSS RPO has hired hundreds of recruiters in over 30 states. NSS RPO is proud to include among its clients eight of the ten largest government contractors, the world's largest job board, entertainment company and one of the nation’s largest banks. NSS RPO is your trusted provider of Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) solutions. Founded by an experienced recruiter and solely focused on RPO, NSS RPO offers a strong network of exceptional recruiters and customizable staffing solutions. Named to Washington Business Journal’s prestigious list of Top 25 Staffing Agencies seven years in a row, NSS RPO is known for its quality, agility, and expertise. If you have a recruitment staffing need at your organization, NSS RPO can customize a solution for you, no matter how big or small.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Social media

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