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Trainee Laser Optics Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Solestial, Inc.

Laser Process Engineer

Tempe, AZ

As our Laser Process Engineer , you'll support the development, optimization, and scaling of laser ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Optical Engineering, Physics ...

Applied Energetics, Inc

Senior Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

Experience designing laser cavities and laser systems, and nonlinear optics.Experience working in ... Comfortable working in a fast-paced engineering environment with evolving requirements.Strong ...

Applied Energetics, Inc

Senior Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ

$110K - $143K/yr

Experience designing laser cavities and laser systems, and nonlinear optics. * Experience working ... Comfortable working in a fast-paced engineering environment with evolving requirements. * Strong ...

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Trainee Laser Optics Engineer information

What does a trainee laser optics engineer do?

A Trainee Laser Optics Engineer assists in the design, testing, and maintenance of optical systems that use lasers for various applications, such as communications, manufacturing, or medical devices. They support senior engineers in assembling and aligning optical components, conducting experiments, and troubleshooting issues related to laser performance. Trainees also learn about safety protocols, calibration procedures, and data analysis, gaining hands-on experience with sophisticated equipment. This role is ideal for individuals with a strong background in physics or engineering who are interested in specializing in optics and photonics.

What types of projects and technologies will I typically work with as a trainee laser optics engineer?

As a Trainee Laser Optics Engineer, you will often be involved in hands-on assembly, alignment, and testing of optical components such as lenses, mirrors, and laser systems. You'll gain experience using precision equipment in cleanroom or laboratory environments, collaborating closely with senior engineers, scientists, and production teams. Your daily tasks may include assisting in the setup and calibration of laser systems, documenting test results, and troubleshooting optical setups. This role offers excellent opportunities to learn about cutting-edge photonics technologies and contributes to a collaborative team atmosphere that supports your professional development.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Laser Optics Engineer, you need a solid background in physics or engineering, particularly in optics and photonics, typically backed by a relevant degree. Familiarity with optical design software, laboratory instrumentation, and laser safety certifications is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure precise experimentation, safe operation, and successful collaboration on complex optical systems.

What is the difference between Trainee Laser Optics Engineer vs Laser Optics Technician?

AspectTrainee Laser Optics EngineerLaser Optics Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in optical engineering or physicsVocational training or associate degree in optics or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D departments, and engineering teamsManufacturing floors, maintenance, and assembly areas
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, high-tech companies, and aerospace firmsLaser manufacturing, medical device companies, and industrial facilities

The main difference is that Trainee Laser Optics Engineers focus on designing and developing laser optical systems, often in a learning or entry-level capacity, while Laser Optics Technicians handle the assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting of existing laser systems. Both roles require knowledge of optics, but the engineer role emphasizes design and innovation, whereas the technician role emphasizes hands-on technical skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laser Optics Engineer jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Laser Optics Engineer jobs in Arizona are:

Trainee Laser Optics Engineer jobs near you

Laser Process Engineer

Solestial, Inc.

Tempe, AZ

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Solestial is pioneering the future of space-based solar power by developing advanced solar technologies optimized for the harsh conditions of space. Our innovative, low-cost, and scalable solar arrays are engineered for next-generation satellites, spacecraft, and orbital infrastructure. We are driven by a mission to power the space economy and unlock limitless opportunities in orbit and beyond.

The Role:

As our Laser Process Engineer, you'll support the development, optimization, and scaling of laser-based manufacturing processes used to build next-generation solar cells and modules. Working closely with our Principal Laser Engineer, you'll help develop and deploy laser processing technologies while supporting day-to-day process troubleshooting and continuous improvement efforts across development and production environments.

This is a hands-on role focused on laser process development, equipment troubleshooting, and manufacturing execution. You'll work across laser dicing, polymer ablation, masking, and related manufacturing processes while partnering closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Tooling, and Automation teams. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working directly with hardware, solving technical challenges, and helping transition innovative technologies from development into production.

Your Mission
  • Support development of laser processing techniques for solar cell and module fabrication
  • Assist in design, build, and setup of laser tooling and related mechanical systems (fixtures, chucks, alignment setups, etc.)
  • Run experiments, collect data, and help refine process settings.
  • Develop and improve laser equipment automation scripts used for both R&D and manufacturing
  • Work in CAD to support tooling and integration design efforts
  • Assist with installation, debugging, and commissioning of laser and related equipment
  • Partner with automation and mechanical engineers to integrate laser systems into larger tools
  • Help transition processes from R&D/pilot into production environments
  • Create manufacturing documentation (SOPs, work instructions, and Process FMEAs) and support operator training
  • Contribute to general lab and pilot line activities, including running builds and supporting production lots as needed
What You Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Optical Engineering, Physics, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field
  • 1-4 years of engineering experience (internships, co-ops, research, or industry experience included) in a hands-on technical environment
  • Hands-on experience with lasers, optics, photonics, or laser-based materials processing through academic research, internships, or industry experience
  • Comfortable working with hardware-building, debugging, troubleshooting, and improving physical systems
  • Experience collecting and analyzing data to solve technical problems and improve process performance
  • Ability to write basic logic scripts to automate equipment sequences (motion control, laser controls, I/O handling, vision systems, and calibration)
  • Basic 2D and 3D CAD experience (AutoCad and SolidWorks or similar)
  • Familiarity with laboratory, pilot-line, or manufacturing environments
  • Strong problem-solving mindset and ability to work effectively across engineering and operations teams
What Gives You an Edge
  • Experience with laser dicing, ablation, cutting, marking, welding, or other laser-based manufacturing processes
  • Experience troubleshooting manufacturing equipment and process issues
  • Exposure to automation systems, controls, sensors, motion systems, or machine integration
  • Experience in semiconductor, solar, electronics, or other advanced manufacturing environments
Our Benefits
  • Competitive compensation - we want you to grow with us
  • Generous, high-quality medical, dental, and vision coverage on day one of employment
  • 15 vacation days, 5 sick days, and 10 paid holidays annually - with an extended holiday break at year's end
  • 401K with employer match up to 4% of salary
  • Employer-paid short-term and long-term disability and employer-sponsored life insurance
  • Your work will literally go to space!
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