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Optical Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Corning

Senior Scientist - Optical Physics

Corning, NY · On-site

$75K - $103K/yr

As a Senior Scientist in Optical Physics, you'll have the freedom and support to explore bold ideas, rapidly build new capabilities, and be part of a team that turns visionary science into real-world ...

Jobs for Humanity

Optical Systems Engineers

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Optical Physics Company Optical Physics Company (OPC) is an equal opportunity company with a strong team participation culture. We are seeking a Systems Engineer / Optical Engineer to join our team ...

Gentex Corp

Optical Physicist

Simpson, PA · On-site

This role provides technical leadership and pathfinding in optical physics and optical materials, linking fundamental physics, materials, coatings, and process conditions to system-level performance ...

Gentex Corp.

Optical Physicist

Simpson, PA · On-site

This role provides technical leadership and pathfinding in optical physics and optical materials, linking fundamental physics, materials, coatings, and process conditions to system-level performance ...

Apple

Optical Science Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$147K - $220K/yr

... or PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Optics, EE, or a related field Theoretical understanding and experimental background in optical physics Understanding of semiconductor laser sources ...

Mercor Inc

Sr. Physicist | Up to $90/hr

New Bremen, OH · Remote

$90/hr

Qualifications PhD in Physics with specialization in Statistical mechanics, condensed matter physics, or atomic, molecular and optical physics. Graduate degree from US/UK/Canada/Western Europe. High ...

Apple

Optical Science Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$147K - $220K/yr

MS or PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Optics, EE, or a related field * Theoretical understanding and experimental background in optical physics * Understanding of semiconductor laser sources ...

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How much do optical physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical physics in the United States is $17.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, optics, and mathematics, typically supported by at least a master's or doctoral degree in physics or a related field. Proficiency with simulation software (such as COMSOL, Zemax, or MATLAB), laboratory instrumentation, and experimental techniques is commonly required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills for designing experiments and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. These skills are essential for advancing research, developing innovative optical systems, and solving complex technical challenges in industry or academia.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in optical physics research and development?

Optical physics professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision in experimental setups, dealing with complex instrumentation, and troubleshooting unexpected results due to subtle environmental factors like temperature or vibration. Collaborating across multidisciplinary teams—such as engineers, material scientists, and software developers—requires clear communication and adaptability. Additionally, staying up-to-date with rapidly advancing technologies and publishing research findings can be demanding but is essential for career growth in this field.

What is optical physics?

Optical physics is a branch of physics that focuses on the study of light, including its generation, transmission, detection, and interaction with matter. It encompasses the behavior and properties of light, such as reflection, refraction, diffraction, and polarization, as well as the development and application of optical instruments like lenses, lasers, and fiber optics. Optical physicists work in a variety of fields, including telecommunications, imaging, medical technology, and quantum computing, to develop new technologies and improve our understanding of light.

What is the difference between Optical Physics vs Optical Engineer?

AspectOptical PhysicsOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, advanced degrees often preferredEngineering degree, specialized training in optics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, academiaManufacturing, product development, industry settings
Industry UsageResearch, academia, scientific institutionsOptical systems design, product development, manufacturing
Common Search/ComparisonUnderstanding fundamental optical phenomenaDesigning and implementing optical systems

Optical Physics focuses on understanding the fundamental principles of light and optics through research and theoretical work, often in academic or research settings. Optical Engineers apply these principles to design, develop, and improve optical devices and systems in industry. While both roles require knowledge of optics, Optical Physics emphasizes scientific research, whereas Optical Engineering centers on practical application and product development.

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What cities are hiring for Optical Physics jobs? Cities with the most Optical Physics job openings:
What states have the most Optical Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Physics jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Physics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Physics jobs are:
Optical Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Physics job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 84% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,574 per year, or $17.6 per hour.
Senior Scientist - Optical Physics

Senior Scientist - Optical Physics

Corning

Corning, NY • On-site

$75K - $103K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 124 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 515 rated manufacturers

Job description

Requisition Number: 74908

The company built on breakthroughs. 
Join us.                   

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible. 

How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations- not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company,and the world, forward. 

At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more. 

Come break through with us. 

Corning's businesses are ever-evolving to best serve our customers, industries, and consumers. Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical communications, display, automotive, and solar markets. We are changing the world with: 

  • Trusted products that accelerate drug discovery, development, and delivery to save lives
  • Damage-resistant cover glass to enhance the devices that keep us connected
  • Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light
  • Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences 
  • Auto glass and ceramics to drive cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation 
  • Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy solutions
Role Purpose

Join Corning's Science and Technology Division as a Senior Scientist in Optical Physics and help shape the future of materials science and advanced technology. In this role, you'll drive innovation across diverse markets-ranging from optical communications and advanced displays to life sciences and energy-by integrating expertise in optics, applied physics, modeling, and materials.

You'll collaborate with world-class scientists and engineers to deliver breakthrough solutions and accelerate the development of next-generation products and processes. Projects include cutting-edge applications in photonics, next-gen optical fibers, waveguides for AR and integrated optics, quantum technologies, metasurfaces, laser-processing, laser-material interactions, human perception, advanced optical surface treatments for displays, and the development of unique measurements for metrology. Your work will directly impact Corning's most ambitious initiatives and help define new research and business directions.

At Corning, we are relentless innovators. Our legacy of 175 years is built on pioneering discoveries in glass, ceramics, and optical physics-transforming industries and improving lives around the world. Today, we continue to lead through sustained investment in research and development, a unique blend of material and process innovation, and deep partnerships with customers to solve their toughest challenges.

We thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where agility, creativity, and cross-disciplinary collaboration are essential. As a Senior Scientist in Optical Physics, you'll have the freedom and support to explore bold ideas, rapidly build new capabilities, and be part of a team that turns visionary science into real-world impact.

If you are passionate about solving complex problems, eager to work at the intersection of multiple disciplines, and motivated to make a difference, Corning offers you the opportunity to grow, contribute, and shape the future of technology.

Key Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and leverage optical modeling and optical experimental techniques to develop and support next-generation technologies for telecommunications, data centers, solar, and displays.
  • Work with technical leaders to define technical requirements, performance metrics, and validation protocols for optical solutions
  • Troubleshoot complex optical challenges, applying root-cause analysis and innovative solutions
  • Document technical work, and contribute to intellectual property
  • Stay current with emerging technologies, tools, and industry best practices
Experiences/Education - Required
  •  Ph.D. in Applied Physics, Optical Engineering, or a related discipline; or M.S. in related field with 3+ years of relevant industrial experience
  • Hands-on experience and working knowledge of optical systems, imaging hardware, and measurement instruments
  • Strong data analysis, technical writing, and presentation skills; proficiency with inter-office tools such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
  • Curiosity, patience, and desire to learn new technologies that push beyond your current skills
  • Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in high-performance, multi-disciplinary teams
  • Effective communication skills for technical and business audiences
Experiences/Education - Desired
  • Experience in optical materials design or materials used in photonic and optical applications
  • Experience in designing and analyzing optical systems using various modeling tools
  • Familiarity with connectivity technologies, optoelectronics, waveguides, display, or scattering optics
  • Skill in prototyping with various fabrication technologies
  • Background in product commercialization and technology transfer
  • Patent, publication, or industry benchmarking experience
  • Demonstrated ability to lead a focused project with a small team

This position supports immigration sponsorship.

The range for this position is $102,650.00 - $141,145.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. 

A job that shapes a life. 

Corning offers you the total package. 

Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.

  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.  
  • Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions. 

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.

Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.

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