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Laser Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IPG Photonics

Laser Scientist

Marlborough, MA · On-site

Job Summary Laser scientist leads end-to-end R&D of advanced laser prototypes, from first principles and modeling through breadboard builds, characterization, iteration, and transfer to product. This ...

IPG Photonics

Laser Scientist

Marlborough, MA · On-site

Job Summary Laser scientist leads end-to-end R&D of advanced laser prototypes, from first principles and modeling through breadboard builds, characterization, iteration, and transfer to product. This ...

Fusion Energy Base

Laser Scientist

Austin, TX · On-site

As a Laser Scientist, you'll own the hands-on execution of core laser experiments, such as setting up a laser front end, achieving two-dimensional SSD (smoothing by spectral dispersion), frequency ...

Focused Energy Inc

Laser Scientist

Austin, TX · On-site

As a Laser Scientist, you'll own the hands-on execution of core laser experiments, such as setting up a laser front end, achieving two-dimensional SSD (smoothing by spectral dispersion), frequency ...

Vector Atomic

Laser Scientist

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$163K - $214K/yr

As a PIC Laser Scientist, you will bridge the gap between fundamental optical physics and scalable chip-scale technology. You will be responsible for the end-to-end development of custom laser ...

Vector Atomic

Laser Scientist

Pleasanton, CA

$163K - $214K/yr

As a PIC Laser Scientist, you will bridge the gap between fundamental optical physics and scalable chip-scale technology. You will be responsible for the end-to-end development of custom laser ...

Vector Atomic

Laser Scientist

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$163K - $214K/yr

As a PIC Laser Scientist, you will bridge the gap between fundamental optical physics and scalable chip-scale technology. You will be responsible for the end-to-end development of custom laser ...

Vector Atomic, Inc.

Laser Scientist

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$163K - $214K/yr

As a PIC Laser Scientist, you will bridge the gap between fundamental optical physics and scalable chip‑scale technology. You will be responsible for the end‑to‑end development of custom laser ...

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA

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 ...

Focused

Laser Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

Based in Germany and the US, we have brought together the top scientific and engineering minds ... As a Laser Engineer, you'll own the hands‑on execution of core laser experiments, such as setting ...

Focused Energy Inc

Laser Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

Based in Germany and the US, we have brought together the top scientific and engineering minds ... As a Laser Engineer, you'll own the hands-on execution of core laser experiments, such as setting ...

Fusion Energy Base

Laser Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

Based in Germany and the US, we have brought together the top scientific and engineering minds ... Ensure all laser safety protocols and lab safety standards are followed without exception in a ...

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Laser Scientist information

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$36.5K

$79.4K

$137.5K

How much do laser scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser scientist in the United States is $79,408.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a laser scientist do?

A Laser Scientist researches, develops, and applies laser technology for various fields, including medicine, manufacturing, defense, and telecommunications. They design and optimize laser systems, study light-matter interactions, and work on improving laser performance. Their role may also involve experimental testing, data analysis, and collaboration with engineers and physicists to develop new laser-based applications.

What does a typical day look like for a laser scientist?

A typical day for a Laser Scientist often involves designing experiments, setting up and calibrating laser equipment, and analyzing results to refine system performance. Collaboration with other scientists, engineers, and occasionally external partners is common, especially when developing prototypes or troubleshooting complex optical issues. Additionally, you may spend time documenting findings, writing technical reports, and staying updated on the latest research and safety protocols. The pace can be dynamic, with a mix of hands-on laboratory work, meetings, and data analysis, providing a stimulating and varied professional environment.

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

To thrive as a Laser Scientist, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and engineering, typically supported by a PhD or master's degree in a related scientific field. Experience with laser systems, optical instrumentation, and analytical software such as MATLAB or LabVIEW is highly valued, and certifications in laser safety can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and precise communication skills help you effectively conduct experiments and work with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for innovating safely and efficiently in the rapidly evolving field of laser technology.

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Laser Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,408 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

Laser Scientist

Marlborough, MA • On-site

IPG Photonics
Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about IPG Photonicsexternal

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

IPG Photonics rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

IPG Photonics is revolutionizing the laser industry as the pioneering developer and leading producer of fiber lasers and amplifiers. Headquartered in Marlborough, MA, IPG has over 4,800 employees in more than 30 locations around the world. We aspire to work together with our employees and customers to apply light in ways that improve life.
Our mission is to develop innovative laser solutions to make the world a better place. To accomplish this mission, we are committed to attracting and retaining the best talent and an engaged and thriving workforce that drives a sustainable future for our company and society.
Working at IPG Photonics you can expect challenging projects, a motivating and friendly environment, and competitive benefits.
Job Summary
Laser scientist leads end-to-end R&D of advanced laser prototypes, from first principles and modeling through breadboard builds, characterization, iteration, and transfer to product. This role will be advancing state-of-the-art laser technology and real-world applications.
Responsibilities:
  • Act as the subject-matter expert in laser development projects
  • Design, development and characterization of laser prototypes
  • Develop laser test methodologies and automation
  • Lead optical design of laser sub-systems
  • Model complex systems including gain, nonlinear efficiency, thermal lensing, pointing and noise
  • Advance materials and component characterization
  • Generate IP and technical communication

  • PhD in Science or Engineering, preferably with Major in Physics
  • 10+ years' experience with lasers, optics, imaging systems
  • Working knowledge of laser physics, condensed matter physics and optical spectroscopy
  • Deep expertise in nonlinear optics, frequency conversion, including operation in DUV/VUV regimes
  • Experience with vacuum systems, contamination control, and UV-grade materials
  • Experience in numerical modeling of lasers and optical systems
  • Proficiency with simulation tools, such as MATLAB or Python
  • Strong interpersonal and multi-tasking skills, comfortable presenting and communicating at multiple corporate levels

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