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How much do contract quantum photonics jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract quantum photonics in the United States is $48.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.11 and $50.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract quantum photonics professional?

A Contract Quantum Photonics professional is a specialist who works on a temporary or project-based basis to design, develop, and test photonic systems and devices that leverage quantum mechanical properties. These experts are often hired by research institutions, technology companies, or startups to work on specific projects related to quantum communication, quantum computing, or quantum sensing using photons. Their role typically involves advanced experimental setups, data analysis, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. Contract positions offer flexibility for both employers and professionals, allowing companies to access specialized skills as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract quantum photonics engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Quantum Photonics Engineer, you need a strong background in quantum optics, photonics, and physics, typically supported by an advanced degree in physics, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, photonic simulation software (such as Lumerical or COMSOL), and experience with quantum programming languages or platforms are often required. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills are essential for effectively working on complex, interdisciplinary projects. These skills and qualifications enable the design, testing, and implementation of cutting-edge quantum photonic systems critical for advancements in quantum technologies.

What are the main challenges faced by professionals working in contract quantum photonics roles?

Professionals in Contract Quantum Photonics often face challenges related to the highly specialized and rapidly evolving nature of the field. Staying updated on the latest research and technological advancements is crucial, as projects frequently require integrating cutting-edge photonic components or quantum devices. Additionally, contract-based roles may involve adapting quickly to new teams and varying project scopes, which requires strong communication and collaboration skills with multidisciplinary groups. Managing tight project timelines and ensuring the precision required for quantum experiments are also common aspects of the job.

What is the difference between Contract Quantum Photonics vs Contract Optical Engineer?

AspectContract Quantum PhotonicsContract Optical Engineer
Required CredentialsPhysics or Engineering degree, knowledge of quantum mechanics, photonics certificationsEngineering degree, optics certifications, experience with optical systems
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, high-tech companies, industry R&DManufacturing facilities, R&D labs, tech companies
Employer & Industry UsageQuantum technology firms, research institutionsOptical systems companies, telecommunications, defense

Contract Quantum Photonics professionals focus on quantum-based photonic systems, requiring specialized knowledge in quantum mechanics and photonics. In contrast, Contract Optical Engineers work on designing and testing optical systems for various applications. Both roles often share similar work environments and certifications but differ in technical focus and industry applications.

What cities are hiring for Contract Quantum Photonics jobs?

Cities with the most Contract Quantum Photonics job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Quantum Photonics jobs?

The most popular types of Quantum Photonics jobs are:

What states have the most Contract Quantum Photonics jobs?

States with the most job openings for Contract Quantum Photonics jobs include:

Contract Quantum Photonics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Quantum Photonics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 52% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 44% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 53% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,781 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Photonics Research Engineer III

SRI International

Boulder, CO • On-site

$101K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Overview

SRI's Applied Physics Laboratory, in Boulder, CO, has an opportunity for a Photonics Research Engineer with experience in photonic integrated circuits to execute on a variety of projects ranging from optical phased arrays to microwave photonic systems. SRI specializes in developing and transitioning technology from basic research and development (R&D) to fieldable prototypes for both US government and commercial customers. Our Advanced Technology and Systems Division (ATSD) performs research spanning advanced signal processing, robotics, quantum physics, and ocean modeling. This position is on-site in Boulder, CO.

Responsibilities

A successful candidate will contribute to ongoing and future programs with emphasis in optical communications, signal processing, and sensing, to apply their advanced knowledge and skills in photonic integrated circuits (PICs) to microwave photonics and/or optical phased arrays. They will work with small to medium sized research teams comprised of multidisciplinary, subject matter expert (SME) engineering professionals with expertise ranging from PICs, stabilized lasers, optical communications, and RF signal processing to quantum sensing, applied mathematics and computer science. Their contributions will range from technical to management level tasks.  

  • Technical contributions will primarily include system development and testing, fundamental and engineering calculations, simulation and modeling, and other laboratory R&D tasks.
  • Management-level tasks include helping project managers manage technical aspects of programs, leading tasks, assessing program performance, and communicating with clients and SRI senior management.
Qualifications
  • PhD in electrical engineering, optics, physics or related technical discipline
    • PhD thesis or work experience ideally would substantially include photonic integrated circuits (PIC), development from modeling and simulation to layout and characterization and test
  • U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance due to government contract requirements
  • Experience simulating and testing PICs, analyzing data, and/or PIC component layout
  • Experience in applying PIC systems to application areas such as optical phased arrays, microwave photonics, optical communication, and/or quantum sensing
  • Proficient in scientific programming e.g., Python, MATLAB, and/or other similar scripting languages
  • Familiarity with process design kits (PDKs) from foundries such as AIM Photonics, Applied Nanotools, and Tower Semiconductor
  • Prior experience working on Government-funded R&D programs
  • Demonstrated experience working in a team environment and managing time while working on multiple projects

Desired:

  • Active DoD Secret clearance
  • Familiarity with automated testing and data collection
  • Familiarity with feedback control and stabilization of photonic systems comprised of components such as interferometers, filters, and lasers
  • Demonstrated ability to develop new business with potential customers and familiarity with proposal writing
  • The following experience:
    • Working with and submitting designs to multi-project wafer runs at PIC foundries
    • Simulating photonic devices in FDTD using Tidy3D, Lumerical, or similar tools
    • With scripted-based layout of photonic components and systems using GDSFactory, Nazca, IPKISS, or similar
    • Designing electro-optic PIC devices in silicon and/or thin-film lithium niobate
    • With precision measurement and/or metrology
    • Leading technical presentations and demonstrations
  • Experience with classified research

The salary range is: $101,592-$151,119. Salary ranges will vary and are based on several factors, including geographic location, market competitiveness and equity amongst internal employees in similar roles. Positions may also qualify for SRI's Pay for Outstanding Performance program or the annual Performance Based Compensation program. SRI also has a competitive benefits package, to view details please go to https://www.sri.com/resources/benefits/. SRI will accept applications until the position is filled.

SRI is an independent nonprofit research institute headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., with a rich history of supporting government and industry. We create and deliver world-changing solutions for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future. For more than 75 years, we have collaborated across technical and scientific disciplines to discover and develop groundbreaking products and technologies and bring innovations and ideas to the marketplace.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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