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Laser Weapon Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Laser Systems Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$128K - $208K/yr

We are seeking a Laser Systems Engineer to join this team in Boston. Depending on focus area, the role may sit in platform development and R&D, system integration and deployment, or operational ...

Aurelius Systems

Director of Engineering

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$275K - $315K/yr

The first cost effective, reliable and robust laser weapon system. Our namesake isn't an accident ... An engineer first, and leader second. You raise it by how you work, not by what you say What We're ...

New

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Laser Systems Engineer

Boston, MA

$128K - $208K/yr

We are seeking a Laser Systems Engineer to join this team in Boston. Depending on focus area, the role may sit in platform development and R&D, system integration and deployment, or operational ...

Lockheed Martin

Circuit Design Engineer Senior

Orlando, FL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

You will be the Circuit Design Engineer Senior for the Laser Weapon System (LWS) Turret Control team. Our team develops the high precision control circuit assemblies that drive the turret closing ...

KBR

Operational Space Weapon Systems SME

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$68K - $92K/yr

Operational Space Weapon Systems SME KBR is seeking an Operational Space Weapon Systems Subject ... Bachelor's degree in engineering, systems engineering, physics, operations research, or closely ...

BCI Inc

Systems Engineer (Safety Guns)

Dahlgren, VA

Basic Commerce and Industries, Inc. (BCI) is seeking to fill one full-time Systems Engineer position to execute system safety for the Guns weapon systems safety program under NSWC Dahlgren Division.

EO Solutions Corp

Senior Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$120K - $159K/yr

... High Energy Laser (HEL) weapon systems. This position requires a versatile software engineer ... capable of working across the full software stack, from embedded controls and real-time hardware ...

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All JobsLaser Weapon Systems Engineer Jobs

Laser Weapon Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$54.5K

$72.5K

$95.5K

How much do laser weapon systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser weapon 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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Laser Weapon Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laser Weapon Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, optics, and physics, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. Expertise in simulation software, laser safety certifications, and familiarity with systems such as MATLAB, LabVIEW, or military-grade control systems are commonly required. Outstanding problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and precise communication skills are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, effective development and integration of advanced laser weapon technologies in complex defense environments.

What is the difference between Laser Weapon Systems Engineer vs Radar Systems Engineer?

AspectLaser Weapon Systems EngineerRadar Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, specialized training in laser technologyBachelor's or higher in electrical or systems engineering, radar technology knowledge
Work EnvironmentDefense labs, military projects, aerospace facilitiesDefense agencies, aerospace companies, military installations
Industry UsageMilitary defense, aerospace, research institutionsMilitary defense, aerospace, surveillance systems

Both roles involve working with complex defense systems in similar environments, requiring engineering expertise. Laser Weapon Systems Engineers focus on laser-based weaponry, while Radar Systems Engineers specialize in radar detection and tracking systems. They share similar credentials and work settings, but their technical focus differs significantly.

What are Laser Weapon Systems Engineers?

Laser Weapon Systems Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain high-energy laser weapon systems for defense and security applications. Their work involves integrating laser technology with targeting, tracking, and control systems to create effective directed energy weapons. They collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to solve technical challenges, ensure system safety, and meet military performance requirements. This role requires expertise in optics, electronics, and advanced materials, as well as knowledge of military standards and protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by Laser Weapon Systems Engineers when integrating new technologies into existing defense platforms?

Laser Weapon Systems Engineers often encounter challenges related to compatibility and power management when integrating new laser technologies into established defense platforms. Existing systems may have limitations in terms of available space, cooling capacity, or power supply, requiring innovative engineering solutions. Additionally, ensuring the safe and effective operation of high-energy lasers in dynamic environments demands rigorous testing and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including software, electrical, and mechanical engineers. Staying up-to-date with rapidly evolving laser technologies and defense standards is also essential for success in this role.
Infographic showing various Laser Weapon Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,500 per year, or $34.9 per hour.
Lead Optical Systems Engineer

Lead Optical Systems Engineer

Radiance Technologies

Huntsville, AL

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Radiance Technologies, a 100% employee-owned company, is seeking candidates for a Lead Optical Systems Engineer position. The candidate will provide critical technical support and systems engineering oversight to a government program office focused on countering emerging surveillance systems. This position will leverage DoDI 5000.02 Middle Tier Acquisition for Rapid Prototyping, requiring a talented engineer who can work with a cross-functional team and oversee contractor efforts in the design, integration and test of novel directed energy weapon systems. The candidate will provide systems engineering and technical assistance (SETA) support all phases of an end-to-end system lifecycle from design and development to test, evaluation, and operations of advanced optical systems.

Required Skills

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen with an active DoD Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility.
  • Proven ability to lead technical teams and initiatives in a dynamic environment. Can lead an integrated team focused on laser systems, beam directors and integration.
  • Advise the Government Product Team on matters of the physics and engineering constraints of high-power laser systems.
  • A self-starter with exceptional oral and written communication skills suitable for interacting with government customers and development contractors.
  • Ability analyze and assimilate technical information, lead technical assessments and provide recommendations to the Government customer.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills. Can convey complex technical concepts to non-specialists.

Required Experience

  • 10 years of relevant experience in design, development, and test of systems. Minimum 5 years focused on optical systems, directed energy, high-power lasers, or similar technologies
  • Integrating complex systems using System Engineering Principles.
  • Experience with radiometry, pulsed lasers and continuous wave lasers.
  • Experience reviewing and assessing optical system designs, test procedures and test results.
  • Experience building or analyzing an optical system link budget to assess requirements and design feasibility.
  • Familiarity with integrating optical payloads onto ground-based or airborne platforms.

Desired Qualifications

  • Master's Degree in a relevant technical field.
  • Degree (any level) with a focus in Optical Engineering.
  • Familiarity with programs utilizing Other Transactional Authority (OTA) vehicles.
  • Working knowledge of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and its application to optical system design.
  • Experience with test and evaluation of directed energy systems.
  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) testing of directed energy systems.
  • Experience with active and passive tracking, beam control, and atmospheric propagation

Understanding laser/ma

Radiance Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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