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Temporary Fiber Laser Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vector Atomic

Laser Scientist

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$163K - $214K/yr

Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers, and operations professionals works together ... Develop custom laser systems from fiber-based oscillators to integrated chip-scale architectures.

nLIGHT

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA

$103K - $135K/yr

We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial ... Summary The Directed Energy Laser Development group has an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to ...

Vector Atomic

Laser Scientist

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$163K - $214K/yr

Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers, and operations professionals works together ... Develop custom laser systems from fiber-based oscillators to integrated chip-scale architectures.

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Knowledge of laser theory and industry best practices associated with fiber laser systems including ... engineering specialties with a minimum of 3 years direct hands-on designing, building, and ...

IPG Photonics

Laser Scientist

Marlborough, MA · On-site

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 ...

nLIGHT

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA

$103K - $135K/yr

We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial ... Summary The Directed Energy Laser Development group has an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to ...

nLIGHT

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$103K - $135K/yr

We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial ... Summary The Directed Energy Laser Development group has an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to ...

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Temporary Fiber Laser Engineer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$112.1K

$188K

How much do temporary fiber laser engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary fiber 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 does a Temporary Fiber Laser Engineer do?

A Temporary Fiber Laser Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining fiber laser systems for a specified project or duration. Their duties often include setting up laser equipment, troubleshooting performance issues, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize laser applications in manufacturing, research, or telecommunications. As a temporary position, this role typically focuses on short-term projects or covering for permanent staff. Strong technical knowledge of photonics and experience with fiber lasers are essential for success in this role.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Fiber Laser Engineer, you need a solid background in optics, photonics, and laser technology, often supported by a degree in physics, electrical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with laser alignment tools, optical simulation software (like Zemax or Lumerical), and safety certifications for working with high-powered lasers are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers excel in troubleshooting and collaborative projects. These skills ensure safe, precise, and innovative development or maintenance of fiber laser systems in dynamic, project-based environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Temporary Fiber Laser Engineers, and how can they be addressed during a contract assignment?

Temporary Fiber Laser Engineers often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to new equipment, integrating into established teams, and delivering results within tight project timelines. To overcome these, it's helpful to proactively communicate with colleagues, familiarize yourself with company-specific protocols, and actively seek feedback early on. Building rapport with permanent staff and demonstrating flexibility can also help ensure a smooth transition and successful project outcomes during your contract period.

What is the difference between Temporary Fiber Laser Engineer vs Temporary CNC Machinist?

AspectTemporary Fiber Laser EngineerTemporary CNC Machinist
Required CredentialsTechnical degree or certification in laser technology or engineeringTechnical diploma or certification in machining or manufacturing
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities with laser cutting equipmentMachine shops or manufacturing plants with CNC machines
Industry UsageHigh-tech manufacturing, aerospace, automotiveGeneral manufacturing, metalworking, prototyping
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both roles involve manufacturing and precision work, but a Temporary Fiber Laser Engineer focuses on laser technology and system optimization, while a Temporary CNC Machinist operates and maintains CNC machines. The engineer typically requires specialized technical knowledge of laser systems, whereas the machinist emphasizes hands-on machining skills. Both are essential in manufacturing environments but serve different technical functions.

More about Temporary Fiber Laser Engineer jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Fiber Laser Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Fiber Laser Engineer jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Temporary Fiber Laser Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Fiber Laser Engineer jobs are:
Temporary Fiber Laser Engineer jobs near you
Laser Scientist

Laser Scientist

Vector Atomic

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

$163K - $214K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers, and operations professionals works together to solve complex challenges and turn bold ideas into real-world solutions. We value collaboration, curiosity, and diverse perspectives, and we give every team member the opportunity to make an immediate impact while growing their skills. If you're excited to work on breakthrough technology in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, we'd love to hear from you.
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 systems, evolving them from initial concept through system-level integration. Your work will primarily focus on architecting the transition of high-precision frequency combs and ultra-low-noise systems from traditional discrete components to advanced Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) platforms. By combining hands-on benchtop metrology with sophisticated chip-level simulation, you will drive the innovation of laser architectures for next-generation quantum timing, atomic clocks, and inertial sensors.
Requirements
What You'll Do
  • System Architecture: Develop custom laser systems from fiber-based oscillators to integrated chip-scale architectures.
  • PIC Design & Simulation: Design and simulate PIC layouts optimized for high-Q micro-resonators and dispersion-engineered nonlinear optics using materials like SiN, TFLN, and Tantala.
  • Translation & Integration: Architect the migration of frequency combs and low-noise systems from discrete fiber/free-space components to PIC platforms.
  • Assembly & Characterization: Build and characterize conventional systems, including fiber spooling, MOPA configurations, and discrete nonlinear conversion stages.
  • Precision Metrology: Perform rigorous characterization of frequency noise, phase noise, and Allan deviation at both the benchtop and chip levels.
  • Frequency Stabilization: Develop testing protocols for stabilization architectures, including PDH locking and f-2f self-referencing.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with hardware teams to integrate laser systems into atomic clocks and quantum timing sensors.
What We're Looking For
  • 3+ years of professional experience working with ultra-stable cavities, frequency combs, or atomic clocks.
  • PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on atomic/optical physics, frequency metrology, or integrated photonics.
  • To comply with the US export control laws, Vector Atomic employees must be U.S. citizens (born or naturalized), lawful U.S. permanent residents (i.e. green card holders), and certain categories of refugees, and asylees.
  • Metrology Expertise: Hands-on experience measuring RIN, frequency noise, and phase noise using Phase Noise Analyzers and high-speed RF equipment.
  • Nonlinear Optics: Experience with supercontinuum generation or SHG in bulk crystals, nonlinear fibers, or integrated waveguides.
  • Fiber & Bulk Optics: Proficiency in fiber fusion splicing (PM/specialty), fiber spooling, and high-tolerance free-space assembly.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Integrated Photonics Design: Proficiency in simulation suites such as Lumerical (FDTD/MODE) or COMSOL for designing waveguides and resonators.
  • Frequency Comb Mastery: Deep understanding of mode-locked lasers and fceo- detection and stabilization.
  • Advanced Materials: Practical experience with chip-level probing and coupling (edge/grating) specifically for SiN, Thin-Film Lithium Niobate, or Tantala.
  • Control Systems: Strong understanding of PID control loops, high-bandwidth feedback, and low-noise frequency/power controllers.
  • Scientific Computing: Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for automating optical characterization and processing high-bandwidth noise data.
  • Optical Packaging: Experience with high-efficiency laser-to-chip integration and coupling techniques.

Benefits
At Vector Atomic we value teamwork, open and honest discourse, and work-life balance. We offer competitive compensation and benefits including:
  • Platinum-level family health coverage (medical, dental, vision)
  • Health and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Employer 401(k) contributions
  • 20 days of paid time off / 11 paid holidays
  • Paid parental leave
  • Fully stocked kitchen

Pay Range
The approximate base salary range for this position is $163,000 to $214,000 per year. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity and benefits. Please note that it is less common for candidates to be hired at the top of this range, as final compensation is determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Vector Atomic is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law.
Vector Atomic does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third-party recruiting agencies in response to job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers or HR team.

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