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Home Based Optical Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JPL

Optical Engineer IV

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$140.50K - $181.90K/yr

... radiometers, scientific radars, mass spectrometers and other in situ instruments, ground and space-based RF and optical systems, and innovative sensors. We create novel material systems and ...

K2 Space

Optical Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$110K - $280K/yr

There are any number of space-based optical payloads that can generate value here on Earth (ex. forest fire detection, climate and atmospheric monitoring, etc.) and further planetary science in our ...

MicroVision

Staff Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$120.40K - $155.90K/yr

Our engineering excellence, based in Washington State, Washington D.C., Hamburg, Germany and ... Science degree in Optics, Physics or related field. * Strong proficiency with Zemax (OpticStudio ...

K2 Space

Optical Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$139K - $179.90K/yr

There are any number of space-based optical payloads that can generate value here on Earth (ex. forest fire detection, climate and atmospheric monitoring, etc.) and further planetary science in our ...

Apple

Optical Science Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$147.40K - $220.90K/yr

... science. ","responsibilities":"As an Optical Science Engineer, you will have the following ... based on your analysis Preferred Qualifications MS or PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Optics, EE ...

K2 Space

Optical Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$139K - $179.90K/yr

There are any number of space-based optical payloads that can generate value here on Earth (ex. forest fire detection, climate and atmospheric monitoring, etc.) and further planetary science in our ...

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Home Based Optical Scientist information

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$33K

$85.5K

$140.5K

How much do home based optical scientist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for home based optical scientist in the United States is $85,539.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Optical Scientist jobs are:
Home Based Optical Scientist jobs near you
Optical Scientist - Quantum Systems

Optical Scientist - Quantum Systems

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Boston, MA • On-site

$130.40K - $211.90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Summary
In this role, you will contribute to the advancement of neutral-atom-based quantum computing technologies by architecting, prototyping and integrating optical subsystems into QuEra's next-generation quantum computers. These subsystems rely on diffractive optics, holography, optical tiling strategies, aberration correction, and camera-in-loop feedback to deliver stable, uniform, and precisely controlled optical fields across large qubit arrays. As part of an R&D team, you will collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary group of physicists, engineers, and computer scientists to push the boundaries of quantum computing using neutral-atom platforms by helping shape long-term optical system design decisions.
Responsibilities
  • Design and prototype scalable optical architectures for trapping, addressing, and readout of next-generation neutral atom qubit arrays.
  • Model optical systems including diffraction, aberrations, polarization effects, and alignment sensitivities.
  • Establish integration strategies of new optical modules to optimize performance of neutral atom quantum computers.
  • Implement diagnostic and calibration strategies linking optical design to experimental outcomes, enabling rapid commissioning and long-term stability.
  • Partner with hardware engineering team to translate architectural concepts into deployable hardware and alignment procedures.
  • Evaluate emerging beam-shaping and multiplexing technologies for next-generation scalability.
  • Stay current with the latest advancements in optical engineering, beam shaping, and optical computing relevant to neutral atom quantum computing.

Qualifications
  • Ph.D. or equivalent experience in Optics, Physics, or a related field with a strong background in optical system design and implementation.
  • Hands-on laboratory experience with free-space optical alignment, diagnostics, and characterization techniques.
  • Proven experience architecting and integrating complex systems with both hardware and software components.
  • Demonstrated experience modeling optical propagation, aberrations, and system tolerances using analytical or numerical tools, e.g., Zemax.
  • Strong programming skills in Python, C++, MATLAB, or similar environments for modeling, analysis, and calibration workflows.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to take technical ownership of complex subsystems.
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate across physics, engineering, and software teams.
  • Track record of publications or significant technical contributions in relevant areas.

Preferred Qualifications
  • CAD design skills.
  • Proficiency with git, GitHub, and modern collaborative development workflows.
  • Experience with neutral atom, ion, or other quantum computing platforms.
  • Familiarity with beam shaping technologies such as spatial light modulators, acousto-optic deflectors, diffractive optics.
  • Background in stability engineering, including mitigation of thermal, mechanical, and pointing drifts.

The approximate base salary range for this position is $130,400 - $211,900.
We consistently monitor external market data and update base salary ranges accordingly. We determine base compensation decisions on several factors, including as geographic placement, role-specific knowledge, skills, and/or experience. In addition to our base salary offerings, we also provide equity grants for all new hires.
QuEra is committed to cultivating a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We highly value diversity in our current and future employees and do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.
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