Ray Jones is a native of southwestern Montana and a 1986 graduate of Montana State University, where he earned a B.S. in Physics (and designed his first laser). He continued his studies at Montana State University working with Rufus Cone and John Carlesten, completing an M.S. in Physics with a focus on laser spectroscopy of solid- state laser materials.

He began his career as a Physics Instructor at the Montana School of Mineral Science and Technology in Butte, Montana, before joining the Big Sky Laser Group in 1990. At Big Sky Laser (now Quantel/Lumibird), Ray contributed to the development of numerous commercial and military solid-state laser systems. Over time, his roles expanded from laser and opto-mechanical engineer to project manager and ultimately engineering manager.

In 2011, Ray joined FLIR Systems (formerly Scientific Materials) as Chief Optical and Laser Engineer and Engineering Manager. At FLIR (now Teledyne FLIR), he played a key role in the development of military solid-state laser systems, as well as in establishing the production processes and facilities required to manufacture them. Ray retired from Teledyne FLIR at the end of 2025 and is now the principal owner of Headwaters Photonics, a consulting firm specializing in opto-mechanical engineering and laser design, with a strong emphasis on design for manufacturability.

In his spare time, Ray enjoys fly fishing, hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and woodworking. He and his wife, Marie, have twin daughters who attend the University of Montana in Missoula.