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Intel Photonics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our dedication to advanced development ensures that Intel Silicon Photonics continues to drive future bandwidth growth in data center networks and AI infrastructure, with higher density, better power ...

Sr. Engineer, Photonics Test Job Location: On-site in San Jose Ayar Labs is shattering AI data ... Backed by industry giants like NVIDIA, AMD, Mediatek and Intel and manufactured in partnership with ...

Sr. Engineer, Photonics Test

San Jose, CA · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Sr. Engineer, Photonics Test Job Location: On-site in San Jose Ayar Labs is shattering AI data ... Backed by industry giants like NVIDIA, AMD, Mediatek and Intel and manufactured in partnership with ...

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Intel Photonics information

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$51K

$98.6K

$146.5K

How much do intel photonics jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for intel photonics in the United States is $98,618.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $123,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Intel Photonics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Intel Photonics Engineer, you need a strong background in optical engineering, physics, or electrical engineering, often supported by an advanced degree. Familiarity with photonic design software, cleanroom fabrication tools, and simulation platforms like Lumerical or COMSOL is typically required. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help you innovate and work effectively within multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for developing cutting-edge photonics technologies that drive advancements in data communications and semiconductor industries.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Intel Photonics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Intel Photonics often encounter challenges such as keeping pace with rapidly evolving optical technologies, integrating photonics with traditional electronics, and ensuring high reliability in manufacturing processes. Addressing these challenges requires continuous learning, close collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams, and a strong focus on quality control. Regularly participating in technical trainings and industry conferences can help professionals stay current and contribute effectively to innovative projects.

What are Intel Photonics?

Intel Photonics refers to Intel's technology and products that use light (photons) instead of electricity (electrons) for transmitting data. These solutions, often in the form of optical transceivers and silicon photonics, enable faster and more energy-efficient data communication over longer distances than traditional copper connections. Intel Photonics are widely used in data centers, high-performance computing, and cloud infrastructure to meet the growing demand for high-bandwidth data transfer. The technology helps reduce latency, increase throughput, and lower power consumption in modern computing environments.

What is the difference between Intel Photonics vs Optical Communications Engineer?

AspectIntel PhotonicsOptical Communications Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; knowledge of photonics and optical systemsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related fields; experience with optical networks
Work EnvironmentResearch and development labs, manufacturing facilities, corporate officesTelecommunications companies, network service providers, R&D labs
Industry UsageSemiconductor and photonics industry, focusing on integrated photonics solutionsTelecommunications, data centers, fiber optic network deployment

Intel Photonics professionals focus on developing integrated photonic components and systems within the semiconductor industry, often working in R&D and manufacturing environments. Optical Communications Engineers design, implement, and maintain optical fiber networks in telecommunications and data centers. While both roles require knowledge of optics and photonics, Intel Photonics emphasizes integrated photonics technology development, whereas Optical Communications Engineers focus on network deployment and maintenance.

More about Intel Photonics jobs
What cities are hiring for Intel Photonics jobs? Cities with the most Intel Photonics job openings:
What states have the most Intel Photonics jobs? States with the most job openings for Intel Photonics jobs include:
Infographic showing various Intel Photonics job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,618 per year, or $47.4 per hour.
Sr. Principal Engineer, Photonics Solutions

Sr. Principal Engineer, Photonics Solutions

Intel

Santa Clara, CA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Intel rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 142 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Job Details:Job Description: Intel Integrated Photonics Solutions (IPS) stands at the forefront of silicon photonics integration and commercialization. Since announcing the world's first hybrid silicon laser nearly a decade ago, our team continues to lead the industry with cutting-edge technology and efficient, scalable high-volume manufacturing.Our mission is to enable the next generation of data centers and AI infrastructure through transformative silicon photonics solutions. From 400G to 3.2T+ and beyond, we're driving unprecedented bandwidth growth while achieving smaller form factors through advanced packaging and system integration. As data demands scale exponentially and AI workloads reshape computing architecture, Intel Silicon Photonics provides the foundational technology enabling this transformation.We seek an exceptional Senior Principal Engineer to lead the overarching photonics product architecture for silicon photonics AI connectivity solutions, with particular focus on Optical Computer Interconnect (OCI) and Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) die-stack solutions. As our Senior Principal Engineer, you will drive delivery of photonics solutions meeting the strategic technical vision for next-generation AI infrastructure connectivity, working with cross-functional teams to deliver breakthrough photonic products that enable massive AI compute scaling. This role offers the unique opportunity to design AI connectivity solutions by defining system-level product architectures that enable unprecedented AI compute density and performance, drive strategic technology roadmaps by engaging in Intel's Silicon Photonics strategy for AI infrastructure, lead technical excellence across domains by orchestrating seamless integration between photonic components, electronic interfaces, thermal management, packaging and AI system requirements, and pioneer next-generation solutions by spearheading development of novel architectures including 112Gbaud+ connectivity, advanced multi-wavelength systems, and innovative packaging approaches for AI workloads.Qualifications:Minimum Qualifications:PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optical Engineering, or similar discipline with 8+ years of experience in a related field and 8+ years of relevant industry experience8+ years of experience in silicon photonics system architecture and integration from concept to high volume manufacturingExtensive (10+ years) experience in designing and architecting photonic systems for high-performance computing or AI applicationsProven track record of leading complex, multi-disciplinary technical programs involving photonic systemsDeep expertise in optical interconnect architectureStrong background in AI/ML infrastructure requirements and compute interconnect scaling challengesExperience with system-level modeling and/or performance optimization for high-bandwidth optical linksDemonstrated technical leadership experience directing the work of senior engineering teamsCross-functional collaboration skills: working with AI hardware, process, test, packaging, and applications teamsExecutive communication abilities: presenting strategic technical vision to senior leadership and external partnersStrategic problem-solving mindset: demonstrated ability to architect solutions for complex system-level challengesPreferred QualificationsTechnical leadership experience: leading large, multi-site engineering organizationsDeep experience with AI training and inference infrastructure requirements (GPU clusters, distributed computing)Knowledge of advanced packaging technologies for high-density optical interconnectsExperience with industry standards development (OIF, IEEE, OCP) for optical interconnectsFamiliarity with foundry/fab ecosystems and supply chain management for photonic solutionsPublications in peer-reviewed journals on optical interconnects or AI infrastructureCustomer-facing experience with hyperscale data center operators and AI companiesExposure to: advanced modulation formats, wavelength division multiplexing (WDM), optical switching architectures, thermal management for high-density opticsExperience with co-design methodologies linking photonic hardware with AI software stacksKnowledge of emerging technologies: linear-drive modulators, advanced detector arrays, optical switching matricesJob Type:Experienced HireShift:Shift 1 (United States of America)Primary Location: US, California, Santa ClaraAdditional Locations:Business group:At the Data Center Group (DCG), we're committed to delivering exceptional products and delighting our customers. We offer both broad-market Xeon-based solutions and custom x86-based products, ensuring tailored innovation for diverse needs across general-purpose compute, web services, HPC, and AI-accelerated systems. Our charter encompasses defining business strategy and roadmaps, product management, developing ecosystems and business opportunities, delivering strong financial performance, and reinvigorating x86 leadership. Join us as we transform the data center segment through workload driven leadership products and close collaboration with our partners.Posting Statement:All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance.Position of TrustThis role is a Position of Trust. Should you accept this position, you must consent to and pass an extended Background Investigation, which includes (subject to country law), extended education, SEC sanctions, and additional criminal and civil checks. For internals, this investigation may or may not be completed prior to starting the position. For additional questions, please contact your Recruiter.Benefits

We offer a total compensation package that ranks among the best in the industry. It consists of competitive pay, stock bonuses, and benefit programs which include health, retirement, and vacation. Find out more about the benefits of working at Intel.

Annual Salary Range for jobs which could be performed in the US: $256,050.00-361,480.00 USDThe range displayed on this job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target compensation for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific compensation range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Work Model for this Role

This role will require an on-site presence. * Job posting details (such as work model, location or time type) are subject to change.

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Intel is committed to Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) compliance and ethical hiring practices. We do not charge any fees during our hiring process. Candidates should never be required to pay recruitment fees, medical examination fees, or any other charges as a condition of employment. If you are asked to pay any fees during our hiring process, please report this immediately to your recruiter.

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About Intel

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Intel strives to make every facet of semiconductor manufacturing state-of-the-art -- from semiconductor process development and manufacturing, through yield improvement to packaging, final test and optimization, and world class Supply Chain and facilities support. Employees in the Technology and Manufacturing Group are part of a worldwide network of design, development, manufacturing, and assembly/test facilities, all focused on utilizing the power of Moore's Law to bring smart, connected devices to every person on Earth

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1968