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Optical Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Atom Computing

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

We are seeking an Optical Physicist to develop the next generation of optical devices required to scale our quantum computers. In this role, you will conceptualize, model, and prototype optical ...

Atom Computing

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO

$160K - $185K/yr

We are seeking an Optical Physicist to develop the next generation of optical devices required to scale our quantum computers. In this role, you will conceptualize, model, and prototype optical ...

Atom Computing

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

We are seeking an Optical Physicist to develop the next generation of optical devices required to scale our quantum computers. In this role, you will conceptualize, model, and prototype optical ...

Gentex Corp.

Optical Physicist

Simpson, PA · On-site

The Optical Physicist is a subject matter expert responsible for the design, modeling, characterization, and development of optical systems and eyewear products for commercial and military ...

Gentex Corp

Optical Physicist

Simpson, PA

The Optical Physicist is a subject matter expert responsible for the design, modeling, characterization, and development of optical systems and eyewear products for commercial and military ...

AOSense, Inc.

Optical Physicist

Fremont, CA · On-site

As an Optical Physicist at AOSense you will design, prototype, build, and test laser systems for fieldable atom optic devices for inertial navigation, geophysics, and timekeeping. You will guide the ...

AOSense, Inc.

Optical Physicist

Fremont, CA · On-site

As an Optical Physicist at AOSense you will design, prototype, build, and test laser systems for fieldable atom optic devices for inertial navigation, geophysics, and timekeeping. You will guide the ...

AOSense, Inc.

Optical Physicist

Fremont, CA · On-site

As an Optical Physicist at AOSense you will design, prototype, build, and test laser systems for fieldable atom optic devices for inertial navigation, geophysics, and timekeeping. You will guide the ...

Judge Group, Inc.

AMO Quantum Physicist

Louisville, CO · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Develop, test, and validate models of atomic and optical physics to support system design and engineering decisions. * Translate system-level requirements into detailed specifications and solutions ...

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Optical Physicist information

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do optical physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical physicist in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical physicist do?

An Optical Physicist studies the behavior and properties of light, including how it interacts with different materials. They apply principles of optics to develop technologies like lasers, fiber optics, and imaging systems. Their work is used in industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. They may conduct experiments, develop mathematical models, and collaborate with engineers to create optical devices.

What are some typical projects or responsibilities I might have as an optical physicist?

As an Optical Physicist, your daily work might include designing and testing optical systems, conducting experiments to analyze light behavior, developing simulations, and troubleshooting system performance. You could work on projects involving telecommunications, laser technologies, imaging devices, or even cutting-edge research in quantum optics. Collaboration is common, as you’ll often partner with engineers, other scientists, or product development teams to bring new optical technologies to life. This role offers a dynamic mix of hands-on lab work and theoretical analysis, providing opportunities to grow your skills and contribute to innovative solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the optical physicist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Physicist, you need deep knowledge of optics, photonics, and physics principles, typically supported by an advanced degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software such as Zemax or COMSOL, experience using laboratory equipment like spectrometers and lasers, and sometimes industry certifications are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for this position. These competencies are crucial for designing and analyzing complex optical systems, collaborating on multidisciplinary projects, and advancing innovation in the field.

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Optical Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Physicist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO • On-site

Atom Computing
IT Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Atom Computingexternal

$160K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.
 
We are seeking an Optical Physicist to develop the next generation of optical devices required to scale our quantum computers. In this role, you will conceptualize, model, and prototype optical devices with fundamentally new modes of operation. Working with a talented team of engineers, you will rigorously qualify these devices and integrate them into state-of-the-art quantum computers.
 
This position is tailored for PhD-level physicists or optical scientists focused on optoelectronics, optical cavities and modulators, and laser physics. Prior experience in neutral atom trapping or cold atom physics is not required.
Responsibilities
  • Perform theoretical modeling (both analytical and numerical), prototyping, and experimental validation to translate novel optical concepts into deployable hardware for scaling quantum processors.
  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of experimental physicists, quantum theorists, optical engineers, and hardware and software engineers to integrate new technologies into our quantum computers.
  • Analyze experimental findings and communicate insights to guide hardware design.
  • Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.
Required Qualifications
  • Education: Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Optical Sciences, or a closely related discipline with a strong focus on experimental optics
  • Deep theoretical and experimental mastery of advanced optical physics (e.g., optical cavities, frequency combs, optical modulators, or nonlinear optics)
  • Proven experience designing, building, and characterizing complex experimental optical setups from first principles
  • Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with a diverse team of scientists and engineers
Preferred Qualifications
  • Postdoctoral or industry experience in electro-optics, precision optics, or laser physics
  • Proficiency with Python and Git for experimental automation, control, and data analysis
  • Experience working in a fast-paced hardware development or start-up environment

Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents. Additionally, we offer unlimited paid time off, 401(k) company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance. We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices every day!

The base salary range for this position is between $160,000 - $185,000 commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and incentive stock options for equity in the company.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.