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Optical Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AOSense

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 ...

Pae

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Odon, IN

$80K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Optical, Photonics, Physics, Electrical, or similar) with 3-6 years of experience or Master's Degree with 0-3 years of experience. * Must be able to obtain and ...

Xcimer Energy

Laser Scientist

Denver, CO · On-site

Master's degree in physics, optics, electrical engineering, chemistry, or related field * Experience: 6+ years of experience in the fields of optical physics and lasers * Expertise in laser physics ...

Amentum

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Optical, Photonics, Physics, Electrical, or similar) with 3-6 years of experience or Master's Degree with 0-3 years of experience. * Must be able to obtain and ...

Amentum

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Optical, Photonics, Physics, Electrical, or similar) with 3-6 years of experience or Master's Degree with 0-3 years of experience. * Must be able to obtain and ...

Amentum

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Optical, Photonics, Physics, Electrical, or similar) with 3-6 years of experience or Master's Degree with 0-3 years of experience. * Must be able to obtain and ...

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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.

More about Optical Physics jobs
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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.
Optical Physicist

Optical Physicist

AOSense

Fremont, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

COMPANY OVERVIEW: AOSense, Inc. is the leading developer and manufacturer of innovative quantum technologies employing atom optics. Our products use frequency-stabilized lasers and atoms in a vacuum cell to measure accelerations, rotations, magnetic fields, and time with unparalleled accuracy and stability. Our staff includes physicists and engineers with expertise covering a wide array of disciplines. Our teams are dynamic and fast paced since our hardware is cutting edge. POSITION SUMMARY: AOSense is seeking optical physicists with varied skillsets in optical metrology, laser characterization, and optical design. 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 transition to compact and integrated photonic systems for future generations of sensors. RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Develop compact laser systems for atom-based sensors and frequency standards
  • Design, build, and characterize optical frequency combs and high-finesse cavities
  • Validate the long-term stability of photonic systems in dynamic environments
  • Characterize laser performance (linewidth, beam quality, lifetime, etc.)
  • Characterize optics, optical materials, and components
  • Model laser beam propagation with optical design software
  • Transition photonics devices to manufacturing
  • Contribute to research proposals for further development and applications
Requirements
  • Demonstrated expertise with lasers, optics, optomechanics, electro-optics, and acousto-optics
  • Hands-on experience with optical test equipment
  • Single-mode optical fiber systems
  • Ability to operate and troubleshoot electronic control systems for photonics devices
  • Applicants should thrive in a dynamic environment
  • U.S. Government contracts require applicants to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents
DESIRED EXPERIENCE:
  • Optical frequency metrology (e.g., optical frequency combs and high-finesse cavities)
  • Ultrafast lasers and amplifiers
  • Laser frequency stabilization
  • Narrow-linewidth diode lasers
  • Integrated photonics design and fabrication
  • Micro-optic and diode chip assembly and packaging
  • Engineering software packages (e.g., Zemax, FRED, SolidWorks, or COMSOL)
EDUCATION: Master's, Ph.D. (preferred), or equivalent professional experience Benefits
  • Salary depends on qualifications and experience
  • Medical and dental
  • Retirement
  • Stock plan
AOSense is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran or disability status, or any other federal, state or local protected class. AOSense is committed to providing equal employment opportunity to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you are disabled and require special assistance or a reasonable accommodation while seeking employment with AOSense, then please contact us via email at careers@aosense.com or call (408) 735-9500 x210
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About AOSENSE

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Sunnyvale, CA, US

Year founded

2004

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