ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Space Laser Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NSS

Laser Engineer

Herndon, VA

Laser Engineer Fibertek, Inc. is a leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the ... space communications. An understanding of the industry trends and best practices is a major plus.

NSS

Laser Engineer

Herndon, VA

Laser Engineer Fibertek, Inc. is a leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the ... space communications. An understanding of the industry trends and best practices is a major plus.

NSS

Laser Engineer II

Herndon, VA

Laser Engineer Fibertek, Inc. is a leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the ... space communications. An understanding of the industry trends and best practices is a major plus.

NSS

Laser Engineer II

Herndon, VA

Laser Engineer Fibertek, Inc. is a leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the ... space communications. An understanding of the industry trends and best practices is a major plus.

SpaceX

Space Lasers Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA

$115K - $145K/yr

SPACE LASERS ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch ... All SpaceX optical systems (laser communication terminal and other optical products) require a ...

SpaceX

Sr. Space Lasers Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$135K - $195K/yr

SR. SPACE LASERS ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch ... All SpaceX optical systems (laser communication terminal and other optical products) require a ...

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA

... 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 ...

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA

... 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 ...

NSS

Fiber Laser Engineer / Technician

Herndon, VA

We are seeking an experienced Fiber Laser Systems Engineer / Technician to support the hands-on ... the DOD and NASA space! This role is 100% onsite at headquarters located in Herndon, VA ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsSpace Laser Engineer Jobs

Space Laser Engineer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$112.1K

$188K

How much do space laser engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for space laser engineer in the United States is $112,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,500.00 and $161,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Space Laser Engineers during satellite integration projects?

Space Laser Engineers often encounter challenges related to integrating complex laser systems within the stringent size, weight, and power constraints of satellites. Coordinating with multi-disciplinary teams—including systems, thermal, and electrical engineers—is crucial to ensure that all subsystems work cohesively. Additionally, rigorous testing is required to verify the laser's performance under extreme environmental conditions such as vibration, radiation, and temperature fluctuations. Effective communication and adaptability are key to overcoming unexpected technical hurdles and keeping projects on schedule.

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

To thrive as a Space Laser Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, optics, and electrical engineering, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree and experience in laser systems. Proficiency with CAD software, optical simulation tools, and familiarity with industry standards such as ISO and NASA guidelines is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for success in this field. These abilities ensure the safe and efficient design, integration, and operation of laser systems in demanding space environments.

What does a Space Laser Engineer do?

A Space Laser Engineer designs, develops, and tests laser systems intended for use in space applications, such as satellite communications, remote sensing, and scientific experiments. Their responsibilities may include creating high-precision laser instruments, ensuring these devices can withstand the harsh conditions of space, and collaborating with other engineers on integration into spacecraft. They also analyze performance data and troubleshoot issues to enhance system reliability and effectiveness. This role often requires expertise in optics, photonics, and aerospace engineering.

What is the difference between Space Laser Engineer vs Satellite Systems Engineer?

AspectSpace Laser EngineerSatellite Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, physics, or related fields; specialized training in laser technologyBachelor's or higher in electrical, aerospace, or systems engineering; satellite technology certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aerospace companies, government agencies, often in high-tech or experimental settingsSatellite manufacturing facilities, ground stations, aerospace firms, often in collaborative or field environments
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace, defense, and research sectors focusing on laser applications in spaceIn satellite manufacturing, telecommunications, and space industry sectors

While both roles involve space technology and engineering expertise, Space Laser Engineers focus on developing laser systems for space applications, whereas Satellite Systems Engineers work on designing, building, and maintaining satellite systems. The roles share similar educational backgrounds and work environments but differ in their specific technical focus and application areas.

Infographic showing various Space Laser Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,096 per year, or $53.9 per hour.
Space Lasers Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Space Lasers Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

SpaceX

Redmond, WA

$115K - $145K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 59 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
SPACE LASERS ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK)
The Starlink Space Lasers team develops, produces, and deploys the most cutting-edge satellite free-space optical communication systems in the world. We are looking for engineers to contribute to the development of laser communications terminals and imaging products for the groundbreaking constellation of Starlink satellites. All SpaceX optical systems (laser communication terminal and other optical products) require a blend of theoretical expertise, practical implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex problems in real-time, resource-constrained systems.
As a SpaceX optical engineer, you will be responsible for free-space optical system design, validation, and operation. You will shape the future of laser communication systems and directly contribute to mission-critical applications such as next-generation star tracking system for precise navigation in space environments. You will build reliable, efficient systems by leading
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Apply optics and photonics knowledge to optical system development, including design, analysis, and validation
  • Represent the optical system in program-level, cross-disciplinary trades and issue resolution
  • Define requirements for high-performant optical systems in challenging environmental conditions
  • Lead optical architecture definition through internal trade studies, concept of operations definition, and risk reduction testing
  • Participate in verification testing, including environmental qualification, performance characterization, reliability testing, and fault injection testing
  • Define and lead field testing of optical experiments and laser communication systems
  • Review test data and lead anomaly investigation and resolution
  • Maintain link budgets, design specifications, and system capabilities data
  • Interface with manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure final designs can be manufactured in accordance with overall project goals
  • Collaborate with software and automation teams to develop tools and protocols for automated optical testing
  • Represent laser communications systems for reliability and risk discussions with internal reliability teams, management, customers, and vendors

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in physics, computer science, electrical engineering, or other engineering/STEM discipline
  • 2+ years of hands-on laboratory or work experience in optics, photonics, laser technology, or precision mechanical design or testing (university lab, student project, or internship experience qualifies)
  • 1+ years of experience in a computer programming language (e.g. C++, MATLAB, and/or Python)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering discipline
  • Proficiency with optical analysis tools such as Zemax
  • Hands-on experience in optical design or system design, integration, and test of laser communication systems
  • Knowledge of and experience in lasers, photodiodes, fiber optics, optics testing/troubleshooting techniques, and signal integrity principles
  • Knowledge of and experience in free-space optical principles, optical component testing/troubleshooting techniques, precision metrology techniques, manufacturing and integration processes
  • Experience leading development of commercial communications products
  • Experience with hardware development for high-reliability applications
  • Experience with pointing, acquisition, and tracking
  • Knowledge of and experience in atmospheric optical effects
  • Ability to assess risk and make design and development decisions without all available data
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphere
  • Competence with optical test equipment (power meters, interferometer, laser sources)
  • Experience with infrared system alignment and characterization
  • Competence with Python scripting and a Linux operating system environment
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Working extended hours and weekends as needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Space Lasers Engineer/Level I: $105,000.00 - $120,000.00/per year
Space Lasers Engineer/Level II: $115,000.00 - $145,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
    Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to

What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply