Jobs and Careers

Optical Engineer

United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 24 Mar 2026

💰 $110,000/yr($85,000/yr – $110,000/yr)

About the role

Who We Are

At nLIGHT, we are constantly on the cutting-edge of laser technology in a massively growing market. We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial, microfabrication, and aerospace & defense applications, to name a few. Our lasers are changing not only the way things are made, but also changing the things that can be made. Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).Summary We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer with experience supporting complex opto-mechanical or electro-optical systems. This role focuses on high-power fiber laser systems from development through production. The ideal candidate is highly motivated and will contribute to the design, development, testing, and delivery of our laser products.Key Responsibilities:

Contribute to a cross-functional team pursuing the development of novel fiber laser and component designs
Apply theoretical and experimental understanding of lasers, fiber optics, and opto-mechanical design to the development of high-power fiber lasers and components
Design, develop, and test fiber laser systems and critical components, including fiber amplifiers
Consistently and effectively report out on design and testing to core and cross-functional teams

Skills & Qualifications:

BS or MS in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field. MS is preferred.
Hands on experience with development of fiber and/or solid-state lasers and amplifiers, optics, and/or opto-mechanical systems
Strong laboratory skills including optical testing and characterization of high-power lasers or complex optical sub-assemblies
Solid analytical and problem-solving skills, including problem identification, data analysis, action planning, and execution
Strong theoretical and experimental understanding of lasers and their associated optics
Fiber laser system design and modeling, including practical considerations (manufacturability, serviceability, and reliability) is desired
Good communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Skills:

Hands on experience with high-power lasers for defense or aerospace applications.
Familiarity with SolidWorks, ERP systems, and data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, SQL).
Working knowledge of reliability engineering, laser safety standards, and test automation.

nLIGHT is proud to offer comprehensive COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:Starting pay depends on qualifications:

Optical Engineer I: $85,000 - $95,000
Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $110,000

Other Compensation and Benefits

Target Cash Bonus of 5% of earned wages
Eligible for Restricted Stock Unit grants
4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
10 paid Holidays
Eligible for health benefits on the 1st day of the month after your start date
Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits, including prescription and orthodontia with employee-paid premiums as low as $40.00 per pay period
Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
Company paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, and Life & AD&D Insurance
Employee Assistance Program
Aflac Supplemental Insurance
Paid Bereavement Leave and Jury Duty
Tuition Assistance Program
Pet Insurance

nLIGHT is subject to US Export Control regulations. To qualify for this position, you must be a US Person (that is, a US citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual granted asylum or refugee status). Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: