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Laser Programmer Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Coherent Corp.

Laser Processing Engineer

Saxonburg, PA · On-site

Job Summary As a Laser Processing Engineer, you will play a crucial role in our R&D department. Your primary responsibility will be to design and optimize laser machining processes for high-end ...

Coherent

Laser Processing Engineer

Saxonburg, PA · On-site

Job Summary As a Laser Processing Engineer, you will play a crucial role in our R&D department. Your primary responsibility will be to design and optimize laser machining processes for high-end ...

Mako Recruiting LLC

Laser Machine Programmer

Johnstown, PA · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Laser Machine Programmer Company: MJ Daniels Trucking & Metal Fabrication Location: Johnstown, PA Employment Type: Full-Time (Monday - Friday, 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM) About Us: MJ Daniels Trucking & Metal ...

System One

Laser Operator

Turtle Creek, PA · On-site

$40K - $49K/yr

Laser Operator Location: Turtle Creek, PA Type: Contingency Compensation: $40,000 - $49,920.00 ... Basic computer skills and familiarity with machine programming. * Attention to detail and a ...

Onsite Personnel LLC

Laser Tube Opertor

Northampton, PA · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Knowledge of CNC programming and the ability to make minor adjustments as necessary * Familiarity ... the Laser Operator - I position today. Join us in producing high-quality components that meet ...

Coherent Corp.

Laser Test Technician

Saxonburg, PA · On-site

Effectively collaborate with engineering and production teams to address quality issues and support ... At least two (2) years of experience in laser testing or a related quality assurance role. * * At ...

Coherent

Laser Test Technician

Saxonburg, PA · On-site

Effectively collaborate with engineering and production teams to address quality issues and support ... At least two (2) years of experience in laser testing or a related quality assurance role. * * At ...

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Laser Programmer information

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$12

$39

$68

How much do laser programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser programmer in Pennsylvania is $39.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.77 and $51.59 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 Pennsylvania?

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

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

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

Laser Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Programmer job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,432 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

Laser Processing Engineer

Saxonburg, PA • On-site

Coherent Corp.
See more jobs at Coherent Corp.external

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description


Job Summary
As a Laser Processing Engineer, you will play a crucial role in our R&D department. Your primary responsibility will be to design and optimize laser machining processes for high-end thermal management components, ensuring efficient and effective solutions. This role is ideal for a recent graduate with a technical degree, offering an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience and contribute to innovative projects.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
  • Develop and run laser cut strategies, optimizing for cut quality and material removal rate
  • Create a preventative maintenance schedule for laser processing systems and address system faults and issues as they arise.
  • Conduct metrology on sample cuts and verify conformance with product drawings
  • Conduct thermal testing on prototype pieces, including but not limited to thermal test vehicle (TTV) testing, flow tests, pressure tests, etc.
  • Align and calibrate laser optical system
  • Calibrate and maintain laser galvo system
  • Work with multi-disciplinary team to guide design and simulation optimization loops for channel geometry and features.

Education & Experience
Education: 4 year Science or Engineering Degree, BS minimum requirement.
Post Graduate Engineering or Science Degree - MSc or PhD
Experience: College science lab and engineering project experience.
Skills & Other Requirements
  • High organization skills, motivation, good inter-personal skills for interfacing with customers and other departments.
  • Good analytical skills for problem solving, good technical writing skills, and some computer programming skills.
  • Strong physics understanding, therefore, able to do theoretical analysis, both optical and electrical.
  • Concise report writing is also required to aid in communicating complex optical issues.
  • Strong data analysis and reporting skills
  • Automation and scripting experience preferred
  • Laser processing/material removal experience preferred but not required

Working Conditions
Office, general laboratory, high power laser operation
Physical Requirements
Office and general laboratory.
Good laser safety and electrical safety practices are essential.
  • Standing (hours per day): 2-3 hours
  • Lifting (lbs.): up to 20 lbs solo and 50 lbs in a team lift
  • Pushing/Pulling (lbs.): none
  • Sitting (hours per day): 5-6 hours

Safety Requirements
All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and COHERENT Corporate EHS standards.
Good laser and electrical safety practices are essential.
Quality & Environmental Responsibilities
Responsible for all operations of optical design group which includes work distribution,
organization, documentation, software selection, training, risk assessment design quality for entire group.
  • Confidential Information: Often involved with proprietary information belonging to Coherent and its customers.
  • Involved with assessing technical feasibility towards setting strategic direction of IR Engineering and NPI activities.
    Contacts with Others: Contact with outside customers, by traveling overseas and domestically and by phone and written communications, regarding optical design and electro-optic design and support during the quotation, ordering, and post order support stages.

Extensive interfacing with the sales department during the quotation of special optics and electro-optics.
Strong interfacing with manufacturing and QA departments to solve design and manufacturing issues.
Support documentation and filing of Coherent Patents and Trade Secrets.
Training and mentoring other Coherent employees.
Transfer of new products manufacturing and testing from prototype to production.
Errors: Errors may result in manufacturing costs, scrapped parts and poor delivery to our customers. Technical reputation of Coherent may be jeopardized by errors made in this role.
Engineer must possess ability for self monitoring and error checking so that errors are kept to a minimum.
Culture Commitment
Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent:
Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust
Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome
Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone
Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
Responsibilities
  • Develop and implement laser machining processes for thermal management components.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand product requirements and design specifications.
  • Optimize laser parameters and machining strategies to achieve desired outcomes.
  • Conduct experiments and analyze data to improve process efficiency and quality.
  • Document and maintain records of process development and optimization activities.
  • Stay updated with the latest advancements in laser technology and its applications.
  • Support the manufacturing team in implementing and troubleshooting laser processes.
  • Ensure compliance with safety protocols and regulations during laser processing.
  • Provide technical support and training to other team members as needed.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.
  • Strong knowledge of laser principles and applications, preferably with an understanding of mechanical components.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions.
  • Proficiency in using relevant software for laser process simulation and design.
  • Good communication and collaboration skills for effective teamwork.
  • Ability to work independently and manage projects with minimal supervision.
  • Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and industry trends.
  • Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and quality control.
  • Knowledge of thermal management principles is an asset.
  • No prior experience is required, as this is an entry-level position.

About Us
Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.

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