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Laser Programmer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Laser Engineer

Boulder, CO ยท On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

We are seeking a Laser Engineer to join our Quantum Engineering Department. Our neutral-atom quantum computers depend on a growing network of precision laser and optical systems that need to run ...

We are seeking a Laser Engineer to join our Quantum Engineering Department. Our neutral-atom quantum computers depend on a growing network of precision laser and optical systems that need to run ...

Laser Engineer

Boulder, CO ยท On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

We are seeking a Laser Engineer to join our Quantum Engineering Department. Our neutral-atom quantum computers depend on a growing network of precision laser and optical systems that need to run ...

We are seeking a Laser Engineer to join our Quantum Engineering Department. Our neutral-atom quantum computers depend on a growing network of precision laser and optical systems that need to run ...

Director of Laser Engineering

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$220K - $260K/yr

As the Director of Laser Engineering , you will lead the development, scaling, and industrialization of advanced laser systems that support Xcimer's next-generation fusion energy platform. You will ...

As the Director of Laser Engineering , you will lead the development, scaling, and industrialization of advanced laser systems that support Xcimer's next-generation fusion energy platform. You will ...

Director of Laser Engineering

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$220K - $260K/yr

As the Director of Laser Engineering , you will lead the development, scaling, and industrialization of advanced laser systems that support Xcimer's next-generation fusion energy platform. You will ...

Laser/Optical Simulation Engineer

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

As a Laser/Optical Simulation Engineer , you will apply your skills and creativity to help develop and take ownership of an end-to-end digital twin ("virtual beamline") for our fusion laser ...

Laser/Optical Simulation Engineer

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

As a Laser/Optical Simulation Engineer , you will apply your skills and creativity to help develop and take ownership of an end-to-end digital twin ("virtual beamline") for our fusion laser ...

Laser/Optical Simulation Engineer

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

As a Laser/Optical Simulation Engineer , you will apply your skills and creativity to help develop and take ownership of an end-to-end digital twin ("virtual beamline") for our fusion laser ...

Laser/Optical Simulation Engineer

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

As a Laser/Optical Simulation Engineer , you will apply your skills and creativity to help develop and take ownership of an end-to-end digital twin ("virtual beamline") for our fusion laser ...

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Showing results 1-20

Laser Programmer information

See Colorado salary details

$12

$41

$72

How much do laser programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser programmer in Colorado is $41.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.07 and $54.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laser programmer?

A Laser Programmer is a skilled professional who creates, modifies, and manages programs that control laser cutting machines, typically in manufacturing or fabrication environments. They use specialized software to convert technical drawings or CAD files into machine instructions, optimizing cutting paths for efficiency and quality. Laser Programmers are also responsible for troubleshooting programming errors and ensuring that the laser equipment operates safely and effectively.

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

To thrive as a Laser Programmer, you need a solid background in CNC programming, blueprint reading, and metal fabrication, often supported by technical training or certification in manufacturing technology. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, laser cutting machines, and machine-specific programming languages is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure precise and efficient production processes, minimizing errors and optimizing output in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by laser programmers when coordinating with production teams?

Laser Programmers often need to balance precision programming with rapidly changing production schedules and material availability. A common challenge is ensuring that their CNC code is optimized for efficiency while accommodating last-minute design changes or urgent orders from the production team. Effective communication and a collaborative approach are key, as Laser Programmers frequently work closely with engineers, machine operators, and quality control to minimize downtime and ensure high-quality output.

What is the difference between Laser Programmer vs CNC Operator?

AspectLaser ProgrammerCNC Operator
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certification in laser technologyRequires CNC machining training or certification
Work EnvironmentWorks in manufacturing or fabrication shops with laser cutting equipmentOperates CNC machines in manufacturing settings
Industry UsageCommon in aerospace, automotive, signage, and metal fabricationWidely used across manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive industries
Job FocusProgramming laser cutting paths and settingsSetting up, operating, and monitoring CNC machines

While both roles involve machining and manufacturing, Laser Programmers focus on creating precise laser cutting programs, whereas CNC Operators handle the operation of CNC machinery. Both roles require technical skills and are essential in modern manufacturing environments.

How much do laser programmers make?

Laser programmers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled programmers with certifications and proficiency in CAD/CAM software may earn higher salaries, especially in manufacturing or aerospace sectors.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Laser Programmer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,471 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Laser Engineer

Boulder, CO โ€ข On-site

Atom Computing
IT Servicesย โ€ขย 11 - 50 employees

$130K - $165K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.

We are seeking a Laser Engineer to join our Quantum Engineering Department. Our neutral-atom quantum computers depend on a growing network of precision laser and optical systems that need to run reliably around the clock. In this role, you'll work hands-on with that hardware: aligning, characterizing, and optimizing systems on the bench, then turning that work into documented, repeatable designs the team can build on. You'll partner closely with experimental physicists, hardware engineers, and software engineers, and your work will directly shape how reliably our quantum computers run day to day.

Job Responsibilities
  • Align, tune, and troubleshoot optical and laser systems โ€” including diode- and fiber-based lasers/amplifiers and nonlinear optical systems โ€” to keep quantum computing hardware running reliably
  • Characterize, phase-lock, and optimize laser and nonlinear optical systems to improve performance and stability
  • Design and model nonlinear optical and laser/amplifier systems for new hardware builds and system upgrades
  • Provide technical expertise to laser and optical projects across the team, with the goal of maximizing performance and robustness
  • Take, plot, analyze, fit, and interpret data from optical testing experiments to guide design and troubleshooting decisions
  • Gather project requirements from stakeholders, turn them into action plans, and keep the team on schedule with proper prioritization
  • Create and maintain engineering change documentation; work from assembly drawings, schematics, wiring diagrams, and other written, visual, and oral instructions
  • Collaborate day-to-day with experimental physicists, hardware engineers, and software engineers to integrate laser systems into the broader quantum computing platform
  • Report progress, risks, and technical findings to the Laser Engineering Manager, and contribute to the team's roadmap for scaling laser systems
Experience & Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Physics, Optics, Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field
  • Minimum 2+ years of experience (advanced degree inclusive) using and maintaining optical, opto-mechanical, and/or laser systems
Required Qualifications
  • Temperamentally suited to work at a fast-growing startup: self-motivated, humble, driven, collaborative, and comfortable with ambiguity
  • Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with a diverse team of experimental physicists, hardware engineers, and software engineers
  • Hands-on experience aligning optical elements in accordance with documented designs
  • Experience with current state-of-the-art lasers/amplifiers (e.g., diode and fiber-based) and nonlinear optical materials, including characterization, phase-locking, and optimization of laser and nonlinear optical systems, plus design and modeling experience for nonlinear optical and laser/amplifier systems
  • Experience with data analysis: taking, plotting, analyzing, fitting, and interpreting data from optical testing experiments
  • Experience with engineering change documentation; ability to work from assembly drawings, schematics, wiring diagrams, sketches, and other written, visual, and oral instructions
Preferred Qualifications
  • Familiarity with Python and Git software version control
  • Familiarity with Zemax, Onshape, and/or SolidWorks/CAD for designing optical and optomechanical systems

$130,000 - $165,000 a year

  • Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents.
  • Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance.
  • We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices, every day!

The base salary range for this position is between $130,000 โ€“ $165,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company

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