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Optical Physicist Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Physics 2 Tutor

Tempe, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

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Physics 2 Tutor

Glendale, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

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Physics 2 Tutor

Phoenix, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

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Physics 2 Tutor

Scottsdale, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

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Physics 2 Tutor

Chandler, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

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Physics 2 Tutor

Gilbert, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

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Physics 2 Tutor

Mesa, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

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Physics 2 Tutor

Tucson, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

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High School Physics Tutor

Phoenix, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of mechanics including kinematics and dynamics, energy, waves and sound, light and optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Physics Tutor

Mesa, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of mechanics including kinematics and dynamics, energy, waves and sound, light and optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ...

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All JobsOptical Physicist JobsOptical Physicist Jobs in Arizona

Optical Physicist information

See Arizona salary details

$36.8K

$88.3K

$211.1K

How much do optical physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical physicist in Arizona is $88,347.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $104,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is photonics a good career?

Optical Physicists working in photonics research and development often find the field to be promising due to its applications in telecommunications, medical devices, and laser technology. The career typically requires strong knowledge of optics, electronics, and materials science, with opportunities in academia, industry, and government labs. Job growth is driven by advancements in optical communication, imaging, and sensing technologies.

Does NASA hire optical engineers?

Yes, NASA hires optical engineers and physicists to work on projects involving optical systems, sensors, and instrumentation for space exploration and research. These roles often require expertise in optics, laser systems, and related technologies, along with relevant degrees and security clearances. Optical physicists may be involved in designing, testing, and maintaining advanced optical equipment used in space missions.

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 does an optical physicist do?

An optical physicist researches and develops technologies related to light and optics, such as lasers, lenses, and optical systems. They often work in laboratories or research facilities, using tools like spectrometers and optical fibers, and may require advanced degrees in physics or engineering.

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 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.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior optical physicists, specialized researchers, or executives in optics-related industries can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require expertise in optics, physics, or engineering, along with strong project management and technical skills.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Physicist jobs in Arizona? For Optical Physicist jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Physicist jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Physicist jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Optical Physicist jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Optical Physicist job openings:
Optical Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Physicist job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,347 per year, or $42.5 per hour.
Principal Optical Engineer - 3

Principal Optical Engineer - 3

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Chandler, AZ • On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 357 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 535 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Space Systems is looking for a Principal Optical Engineer to support the Electro-Optics Group within the Launch Vehicles business unit in Chandler, Arizona.
You will work as part of a multi-disciplinary seeker engineering team responsible for optical design, analysis, integration, and test of development and flight hardware. The role is centered on optical engineering for imaging and sensing systems (visible through LWIR), with an emphasis on how opto-mechanical design and environments drive optical performance.
Responsibilities
  • Contribute to the design and analysis of optical systems for imaging and sensing applications (e.g., refractive/reflective optics, relay optics, athermalized systems, objective lenses).
  • Perform optical performance analyses (e.g., wavefront error, MTF, line-of-sight (LOS) stability, boresight, sensitivity, and tolerancing) across expected environmental and operational conditions.
  • Develop and maintain optical error budgets, including contributions from alignment, manufacturing tolerances, thermal and structural effects, and line-of-sight stability.
  • Perform Structurally Induced Line of Sight (SILOS) analysis in collaboration with structural and thermal analysts to ensure optical performance is maintained through the full mission profile.
  • Define optical requirements and allocate tolerances at the system, subsystem, and component levels; flow requirements to optomechanical design and manufacturing.
  • Collaborate closely with opto-mechanical, systems, electrical, and manufacturing engineers to ensure that optical designs are realizable, producible, and testable.
  • Guide and review the development of optomechanical designs (mounts, cells, structures) that support optical alignment, stability, and environmental robustness.
  • Develop and review parametric 3D CAD models, detailed drawings, and associated documentation that fully capture opto-mechanical requirements and constraints.
  • Support and sometimes lead laboratory and environmental test activities, including optical alignment, calibration, performance verification, and correlation of analysis to test (vibration, thermal, shock, etc.).
  • Participate in design reviews (internal and customer), presenting optical design concepts, analyses, error budgets, and test results to stakeholders.
  • Assist with troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and design updates for prototype and production hardware when optical performance issues are identified.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline from an accredited university and 5 years of relevant experience; or a Master's degree and 3 years of experience; or a PhD and 1 year of experience.
  • Active U.S. Government - Secret security clearance at time of application.
  • Demonstrated experience with optical systems used in imaging, sensing, or seeker applications (may include internships, projects, or early-career roles).
  • Experience with optical performance analysis and an understanding of how structural and thermal environments affect imaging quality and line of sight (e.g., STOP/SILOS concepts).
  • Proficiency with optical modeling tools (e.g., ZEMAX, Code V, FRED, or equivalent) for design, analysis, and tolerancing.
  • Experience with 3D CAD tools (e.g., CREO, NX, SolidWorks) to interface effectively with opto-mechanical designs; ANSYS Mechanical experience preferred.
  • Experience with optical imaging systems in one or more spectral bands (e.g., visible, NIR, SWIR, MWIR, LWIR).
  • Demonstrated problem-solving skills for complex optical/optomechanical challenges in a project environment.
  • Strong technical communication skills, including the ability to generate clear documentation and present optical design/analysis results to technical and non-technical audiences.

Preferred Qualifications
  • MS or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, or Mechanical Engineering with a focus on optical systems.
  • Previous experience with DoD missile defense or seeker programs, including familiarity with performance verification frameworks, environmental qualification, and flight test correlation.
  • Hands-on experience with STOP and SILOS modeling workflows and integration of structural/thermal results with optical design tools.
  • Experience with missile systems, seeker systems, or other high-reliability, environmentally challenging electro-optical applications.
  • Previous experience or knowledge of DoD missile defense programs and associated standards.
  • Deep experience with EO systems, including optical design, analysis and tolerancing, stray-light control, error budgets, radiometric budgets, opto-mechanical design, and focal plane technologies.
  • Proficiency with optical design tools such as ZEMAX, Code V, FRED, and mechanical/optomechanical CAD tools such as NX and SolidWorks.
  • Experience planning and executing optical and environmental test campaigns and correlating measured optical performance to predictive analyses.

Primary Level Salary Range: $108,200.00 - $162,400.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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