ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Laser Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Xcimer Energy

Director of Laser Engineering

Denver, CO · On-site

$220K - $260K/yr

As the Director of Laser Engineering , you will lead the development, scaling, and ... Define and own the technical roadmap for laser system development, maturation, scaling, and ...

Fuse

Laser Engineer - San Leandro

San Leandro, CA · On-site

Designing and developing laser systems that generate short-duration, high-energy pulses of light ... Collaborating with optical, electrical, and mechanical engineers, to integrate laser systems with ...

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA

Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead Position Overview We are seeking a Senior Solid ... OPO/OPA systems * Single-frequency / narrow-linewidth lasers * Frequency conversion stages (SHG ...

Attalon, Inc.

Principal Systems Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$100K - $178K/yr

S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high-energy directed laser ...

Carman Solutions Group

Optical Systems Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

We are seeking a skilled professional with expertise in optical engineering , laser systems , and display technologies . The ideal candidate will apply advanced mathematical modeling and physics ...

LLNL

Senior Laser Project Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$116K - $151K/yr

This position is in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division, within the Engineering Directorate and support the National Ignition Facility and Photon Science (NIF&PS) Directorate.

LLNL

Senior Laser Project Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

This position is in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division, within the Engineering Directorate and support the National Ignition Facility and Photon Science (NIF&PS) Directorate.

LLNL

Senior Laser Project Engineer

Livermore, CA

$116K - $151K/yr

This position is in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division, within the Engineering Directorate and support the National Ignition Facility and Photon Science (NIF&PS) Directorate.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLaser Systems Engineer Jobs

Laser Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$54.5K

$72.5K

$95.5K

How much do laser systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser systems engineer in the United States is $72,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,000.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the most common interdisciplinary collaborations a Laser Systems Engineer can expect, and how do these impact project outcomes?

Laser Systems Engineers often work closely with optical engineers, electrical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing teams to design and implement complex laser solutions. These collaborations are essential for integrating laser technology into broader systems, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring safety and compliance standards are met. Effective teamwork can significantly improve project efficiency and innovation, as each discipline brings unique expertise to the table, leading to more robust and reliable laser systems.

What is the difference between Laser Systems Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectLaser Systems EngineerOptical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, certifications in laser technologyBachelor's or higher in optical, electrical, or physics engineering, certifications in optics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, aerospace, defenseResearch labs, telecommunications, imaging, medical devices
Industry UsageDesign and develop laser systems for various applicationsDesign optical components and systems for imaging, communication, or sensing

Laser Systems Engineers focus on designing and developing laser-based systems, while Optical Engineers specialize in optical components and systems. Both roles require similar technical backgrounds and often work in overlapping industries, but their specific focus areas differ.

What are Laser Systems Engineers?

Laser Systems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain laser-based systems used in various industries, such as manufacturing, healthcare, telecommunications, and defense. They work on the integration of lasers into larger systems, ensuring optimal performance and safety. Their responsibilities may include system modeling, testing, troubleshooting, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These engineers need a strong background in optics, electronics, and physics, as well as problem-solving skills. They play a critical role in advancing technologies that rely on precise and reliable laser applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Laser Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laser Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and engineering, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with optical simulation tools (like Zemax or Lumerical), CAD software, and relevant safety certifications is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help you excel in designing, troubleshooting, and optimizing complex laser systems. These skills are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative development of advanced laser technologies used in various industries.
More about Laser Systems Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Laser Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Laser Systems Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Laser Systems Engineer jobs? The top employers for Laser Systems Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Laser Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Laser Systems Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Laser Systems Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Systems Engineer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Laser Systems Engineer jobs? For Laser Systems Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Laser Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,500 per year, or $34.9 per hour.
Senior Solid State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead

Senior Solid State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead

TalentRemedy

Herndon, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Our client is 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

Apply