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Laser Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Laser Systems Engineer

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$128K - $208K/yr

Laser Platform Development & R&D * Design and develop infrastructure-grade laser systems built for repeatability, modularity, and field serviceability - programmable optical engines with calibration ...

We are seeking an experienced Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Builder to support the hands-on assembly, integration, alignment, and testing of advanced solid-state laser systems in a research ...

Laser Engineer II

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Fibertek, Inc. is a leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the aerospace ... research programs and longer duration technology maturation programs. Your Job The successful ...

Laser Systems Engineer

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$128K - $208K/yr

Laser Platform Development & R&D * Design and develop infrastructure-grade laser systems built for repeatability, modularity, and field serviceability -- programmable optical engines with calibration ...

Laser Systems Engineer

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$128K - $208K/yr

Laser Platform Development & R&D * Design and develop infrastructure-grade laser systems built for repeatability, modularity, and field serviceability -- programmable optical engines with calibration ...

Laser Platform Development & R&D * Design and develop infrastructure-grade laser systems built for repeatability, modularity, and field serviceability - programmable optical engines with calibration ...

Electrical Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

By taking on both short and long-term projects, you will use your versatility to bring uncharted laser research to the aerospace industry. You will work within a collaborative environment while ...

Electrical Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

By taking on both short and long-term projects, you will use your versatility to bring uncharted laser research to the aerospace industry. You will work within a collaborative environment while ...

Fiber Laser Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

... research programs and longer duration technology maturation programs. Support the build, alignment, and performance characterization of fiber lasers including multi-stage amplifiers, phase ...

Fiber Laser Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

... research programs and longer duration technology maturation programs. * Support the build, alignment, and performance characterization of fiber lasers including multi-stage amplifiers, phase ...

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Laser Research information

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$19

$27

How much do laser research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser research in the United States is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is laser research?

Laser research is the scientific study and development of lasers and their applications. Researchers in this field investigate the properties of lasers, how they interact with materials, and develop new laser technologies for use in areas such as medicine, communications, manufacturing, and defense. The work often involves physics, engineering, and material science to improve laser efficiency, power, and versatility. Laser researchers may work in academic institutions, private companies, or government laboratories.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laser researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laser Researcher, you need a strong background in physics, optics, and engineering, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a Master's or PhD in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, laser systems, optical simulation software (like Zemax or COMSOL), and safety certifications are commonly required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating in multidisciplinary teams and presenting research findings. These skills and qualifications are vital for advancing laser technologies, ensuring safety, and successfully translating research into practical applications.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in laser research, and how can these be addressed?

Professionals in laser research often encounter challenges such as rapidly advancing technologies, maintaining precision in experimental setups, and ensuring safety standards are rigorously followed. Staying up-to-date with the latest scientific literature and attending conferences can help address the fast pace of innovation. Collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams, such as physicists, engineers, and safety officers, is essential for troubleshooting experimental issues and fostering a productive research environment. Additionally, organizations typically provide specialized safety training and access to advanced equipment to support researchers in overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Laser Research vs Laser Technician?

AspectLaser ResearchLaser Technician
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (Master's/PhD), specialized research certificationsTechnical certifications, associate or bachelor's degree in related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, academic institutionsManufacturing plants, hospitals, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government labs, R&D departmentsHospitals, manufacturing companies, service providers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, academic careersTechnical job functions, hands-on laser operation

Laser Research involves conducting advanced experiments and developing new laser technologies typically within academic or research institutions, requiring higher education and specialized certifications. Laser Technicians focus on operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting laser equipment in industrial or medical settings, often with technical certifications. While both roles work with lasers, Laser Research emphasizes innovation and development, whereas Laser Technicians focus on practical application and equipment management.

More about Laser Research jobs

What states have the most Laser Research jobs?

States with the most job openings for Laser Research jobs include:

Infographic showing various Laser Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,394 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Senior Solid State Laser Systems Technician

Fibertek

Herndon, VA โ€ข On-site

$95K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

We are seeking an experienced Solid-State Laser Systems Technician to support the hands-on assembly, integration, alignment, and testing of advanced solid-state laser systems in a research laboratory environment. This role works closely with laser, mechanical, and electrical engineers to execute builds based on verbal direction, sketches, and evolving documentation, particularly during early-stage prototype development. As systems mature, the technician will also support formalized build and acceptance testing for deliverable hardware intended for operation in demanding environments.

The ideal candidate is a senior technician who is comfortable working in a research setting, can independently execute complex optical builds, and brings strong workmanship and lab discipline without owning the underlying laser architecture or design direction. Key Responsibilities Independently assemble, integrate, and align solid-state laser systems and subsystems Build and align laser resonators, amplifiers, and non-linear frequency conversion modules Support integration of lasers into mechanically and environmentally robust packaged systems Execute optical alignment and troubleshooting with minimal supervision Support early-stage prototype builds where procedures and designs may evolve Perform performance characterization and diagnostic testing under engineering guidance Execute formal acceptance and qualification testing for deliverable systems Interpret verbal instructions, sketches, and partial documentation and translate them into high-quality hardware Identify workmanship issues, integration risks, or build-related improvements and communicate them to the technical team Accurately document configurations, alignment settings, and test results Maintain lab organization, tooling, and laser safety practices Serve as an experienced lab resource for best practices and informal mentoringMinimum Requirements 5+ years of hands-on laboratory experience with solid-state laser systems or high-power optical assemblies Demonstrated experience supporting R&D or prototype laser development programs Strong background in optical alignment, resonator setup, and laser diagnostics Proven ability to execute complex builds based on verbal guidance and evolving requirements High attention to detail, workmanship, and documentation Education Bachelor's degree, Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent hands-on laboratory experience (Relevant experience is valued over formal degree.) Desired Qualifications Experience with environmentally ruggedized or packaged laser systems Experience with non-linear optics and frequency conversion (e.g., SHG, OPO, OPA) Experience performing acceptance or qualification testing Experience working in small research teams or defense / government-funded programs Comfort serving as a "go-to" lab technician for complex optical builds Salary Range: The annual base salary range for this position is $95,000-$140,000. This range reflects the compensation Fibertek reasonably expects to offer for this role

Placement within the range will depend on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education and training, key skills, and relevant market and business considerations.Minimum Requirements 5+ years of hands-on laboratory experience with solid-state laser systems or high-power optical assemblies Demonstrated experience supporting R&D or prototype laser development programs Strong background in optical alignment, resonator setup, and laser diagnostics Proven ability to execute complex builds based on verbal guidance and evolving requirements High attention to detail, workmanship, and documentation Education Bachelor's degree, Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent hands-on laboratory experience (Relevant experience is valued over formal degree.) Desired Qualifications Experience with environmentally ruggedized or packaged laser systems Experience with non-linear optics and frequency conversion (e.g., SHG, OPO, OPA) Experience performing acceptance or qualification testing Experience working in small research teams or defense / government-funded programs Comfort serving as a "go-to" lab technician for complex optical builds Salary Range: The annual base salary range for this position is $95,000-$140,000. This range reflects the compensation Fibertek reasonably expects to offer for this role. Placement within the range will depend on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education and training, key skills, and relevant market and business considerations.