Laser Applications Engineer Responsibilities

The laser applications engineer is the key professional person in the applications engineering team. The laser applications engineer responsibilities comprise defining, planning, and executing various ultrafast laser based projects that are under development and ensuring its effective implementation. He/she is primarily involved in designing and constructing of opto mechanical systems and optics that would support in implementing the project successfully. He/she works closely with other team members and interacts with colleagues from various other departments like sales as well as with the clients. Thus, if you are aspiring to become a professional in this field, here are a few guidelines that will be of great help to you.

Key Responsibilities of a Laser Applications Engineer

The laser applications engineer plays a wide ranging role that requires him/her to be involved in designing, planning and developing laser applications that would contribute in the success and growth of the organization. He/she should be ready to be flexible and committed in order to meet the requirements of the client, and he/she may need to work within tight time schedules. Thus, his/her work is demanding and needs to handle multidisciplinary projects at a time. Listed below are some of the basic responsibilities that need to be carried out by this professional who is involved in development and implementation of laser micro machining processes:

1. To understand what are the exact requirements of the clients and develop techniques and processes for these particular high end applications that would meet with the customers' expectations
2. To be involved in the production of parts, their samples and to participate actively in the collaborative research project that may involve the running of trials and other relevant evaluations
3. To present the results of the work that has been completed that would eventually help in promoting the company to its prospective clients
4. To be involved in every stage of designing, developing as well as manufacturing of the new generation of systems related to micro machining that will be produced by the organization

The laser applications engineer is responsible for defining the part specifications and interacting with the clients to ensure that the requirements have been met satisfactorily. He/she is responsible for setting up of programs and completing all the developmental processes to define the feasibility of the project. He/she may be involved in organizing and planning the research and developmental programs and creating quotes and rough time estimates for these projects.

He/she schedules plans that would train the new members on the effective utilization of the laser system and ensure that the tools are being used in an appropriate manner. He/she is involved in preparing the relevant documentation and ensuring that the weekly as well as monthly reports are maintained and updated regularly. He/she assists in preparing the proposals for soliciting new funding and expands his/her network of contacts to facilitate better discussions and find new resources for generating funds. He/she also needs to attend all the relevant professional meetings.

Essential Skills

The best laser applications engineer should possess strong working knowledge in lasers, laser microprocessing, and all other related areas. He/she should be a proactive problem solver and should be able to take ownership for these problems and come out with effective solutions to ensure that the work proceeds smoothly. He/she should be totally focused on meeting the requirements of the clients and should be able to function and deliver quality work even under stressful work conditions. Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to work in a team environment will be an advantage. Good time management, planning and organization skills are a must.

Educational Background

A degree in laser, optical engineering, physics, chemistry or any other relevant engineering degree like mechanical, electrical, material science, computer science, etc., would be preferred. The individuals proficient in AutoCad, MS Office with knowledge of electrical concepts, hardware, software and basic understanding of programming, would definitely have an edge over the rest of the candidates applying for a similar position.

Work Schedule

Though this professional needs to complete his/her work during the standard routine hours, he/she might need to be flexible at times and extend beyond the normal hours to do the work which needs to be completed on a priority basis.

Salary Details

The average salary that is offered to a laser applications engineer is $58,000 and normally ranges in between $30,000 to $80,000. However, this is only a general idea and may vary depending on the type, size, and location of the organization. The skills, academic background, and relevant work experience are also some of the crucial factors that will determine the final salary package for that individual.

Career Prospects

With the introduction of laser in various fields, there is bound to be an increasing demand for recruiting the laser applications engineering professionals who would assist in broadening the horizons of the organization.

Therefore, to ensure better career growth and a rewarding career ahead, it is essential that the laser applications engineer responsibilities must be carried out effectively and efficiently.