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Optical Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Focused Energy Inc

Optical Engineer, Digital Twin

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

Master's or PhD in optics, computational physics, applied mathematics, or a related field * Strong experience in optical and multiphysics simulation of complex physical systems * Ability to couple ...

OmniVision Technologies

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$120K - $200K/yr

Graduate degree and above in the area of optics, physics, EE or related Annual base salary for this role in California, US is expected to be between $120,600 - $200,200. Actual pay will be determined ...

OMNIVISION

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

Graduate degree and above in the area of optics, physics, EE or related Annual base salary for this role in California, US is expected to be between $120,600 - $200,200. Actual pay will be determined ...

OMNIVISION

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

Graduate degree and above in the area of optics, physics, EE or related Annual base salary for this role in California, US is expected to be between $120,600 - $200,200. Actual pay will be determined ...

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

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 ...

OMNIVISION

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$120K - $200K/yr

Graduate degree and above in the area of optics, physics, EE or related Annual base salary for this role in California, US is expected to be between $120,600 - $200,200. Actual pay will be determined ...

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How much do optical physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 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 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 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.

How much does an optical physicist make?

Optical physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $130,000 depending on experience, education, and location. They often work in research, development, or academia, utilizing skills in optics, laser technology, and experimental physics.

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 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.

What's the highest paying physics job?

In physics, roles such as research physicist, optical physicist, or applied physicist in industries like aerospace, defense, or technology tend to have the highest salaries. Senior positions, especially those requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills in optics, quantum mechanics, or laser technology, often offer the highest compensation, sometimes exceeding six figures annually.

What jobs can you get with a photonics degree?

A photonics degree can lead to jobs such as optical engineer, laser technician, photonics researcher, or systems engineer, often requiring knowledge of optics, lasers, and photonic devices. These roles are common in industries like telecommunications, defense, healthcare, and manufacturing, and may require proficiency with optical testing tools and relevant certifications. Employment typically involves working in labs, research facilities, or manufacturing environments with standard work hours.

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.
More about Optical Physics jobs
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,574 per year, or $17.6 per hour.
Optical Engineer (Early Career) - 069QE

Optical Engineer (Early Career) - 069QE

Quartus Engineering

San Diego, CA • Hybrid

$78K - $127K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

 About Quartus

Quartus Engineering Incorporated (www.quartus.com) is a leading provider of engineering services and integrated hardware solutions for a wide range of clients and industries. We employ advanced computer-aided engineering tools in the areas of optics, structural, thermal, and coupled analyses. We couple our engineering analysis capabilities with design, prototype, integration and test capabilities to create solutions for our clients that are of extraordinary value.

About the Aerospace Sector

Quartus is a key contributor to aerospace advancements, specializing in engineering simulation and custom hardware. We’ve played a vital role in a diverse range of optical systems, launch vehicle and spacecraft projects involving design, analysis, testing, and hardware assembly and integration. Our aerospace sector expertise also includes aircraft structural design, analysis, and testing, including support for FAA certifications. Quartus excels in commercial and defense aircraft applications, as well as custom optical systems like laser communications terminals and lidar payloads with both aerial and space applications. 

What will you do?

As an Optical Engineer in our San Diego office, you will design, develop, analyze, and build optical systems on a project-by-project basis by applying principles in optics, photonics, mechanics, and materials science.

Essential Job Functions:

·       Design components and systems for both short-term and long-term solutions for customer applications.

·       Provide tolerance analysis and recommendations for tolerances required for system performance.

·       Analyze problems and design custom solutions

·       Provide reports in PowerPoint or word describing in detail the problem, design space, solutions, and limitations of a design.

·       Build test stations for evaluating system performances in a hands-on cleanroom environment.

·       Maintain professional and technical knowledge by consistently educating oneself in areas of science necessary for completing the projects and tasks at hand.

·       Educate other team members and engineers in optical science and other fundamental physics principles to build the technical capability of the company as a whole.

Location

Position is based in San Diego with a hybrid schedule.*

*The hybrid work arrangement is subject to change based on business needs including but not limited to training, performance, or other operational requirements. Any physical location change may impact future employment.

What are we looking for?

·       BS or MS in Optics, Physics, or similar Engineering field and 0-3 years of experience

·       Experience using optical CAD software (e.g. Zemax, FRED) and MATLAB

·       Experience with alignment and optical components for system integration, metrology, testing, etc.

·       Strong understanding on fundamental optical physics (imaging optics, non-imaging optics, fourier optics, diffractive optics, etc.)

·       Strong presentation skills and ability to articulate a fundamental understanding of an optical system to non-optical engineers.

·       US Person (US Citizen or US Permanent Resident)

Compensation and Benefits

Optical Engineer I pay range: $78,279 - $127,907*

*This range represents base pay. In addition, you may be eligible for additional benefits and compensation.

Referral eligibility: Tier 1

Quartus is an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to employing a diverse workforce, including, but not limited to, minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. Quartus provides comprehensive benefits including competitive salary, discretionary performance-based bonus, employee stock ownership plan, medical, dental, vision, and 401k plan with company match.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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