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Optical Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IonQ

Senior Optical Research Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site +1

$114K - $150K/yr

As an Senior Optical Research Engineer, you'll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world's best quantum computers to solve the world's most ...

IonQ

Senior Optical Research Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

As an Senior Optical Research Engineer, you'll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world's best quantum computers to solve the world's most ...

Quantinuum

Optical R&D Manager - 818

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$180K - $225K/yr

We are seeking an Optical R&D Manager in our Broomfield, CO Location. All applicants for placement ... Personnel Manager for a team of engineers and scientists whose charter is to conceptualize and ...

Caltech

Research Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

As a Research Engineer in the LIGO Laboratory, you will have the opportunity to apply your skills ... Support the development, characterization and deployment of LIGO core optics components, such as ...

3M

Research Engineer

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$98K - $120K/yr

Research Engineer Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and ... Being a part of a research team for 3M's optical connector portfolio * Guiding small teams of ...

3M

Research Engineer

Maplewood, MN

$98K - $120K/yr

Research Engineer Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and ... Being a part of a research team for 3M's optical connector portfolio * Guiding small teams of ...

Ford Motor Company

Research Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

Contribute by using optical, spectroscopic, and electrochemical methods to interrogate materials ... Master's degree in materials science, engineering, physics, or related fields * 3 years of ...

Ford Motor Company

Research Engineer

Dearborn, MI

$115K - $165K/yr

Contribute by using optical, spectroscopic, and electrochemical methods to interrogate materials ... Master's degree in materials science, engineering, physics, or related fields * 3 years of ...

SSAB

Research Engineer

Montpelier, IA · On-site

Perform inclusion analyses using optical microscope and SEM/EDS to help develop optimal practices ... Required: * MSc. in Metallurgical Engineering or related discipline * At least two years of ...

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All JobsOptical Research Engineer Jobs

Optical Research Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical research engineer in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Optical Research Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, optics, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis tools is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating in multidisciplinary teams and conveying complex concepts. These skills and qualities are critical for developing innovative optical systems, ensuring precision in research, and successfully advancing projects.

What are some typical challenges Optical Research Engineers face when transitioning from research to product development?

Optical Research Engineers often find that moving from theoretical research to practical product development brings new challenges, such as balancing innovative design with manufacturability and cost constraints. They must work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical engineers and manufacturing specialists, to ensure optical systems meet both performance and production requirements. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as priorities can shift rapidly during the development cycle. Gaining experience with industry-standard simulation tools and prototyping methods can help facilitate a smoother transition.

What does an Optical Research Engineer do?

An Optical Research Engineer specializes in the study, design, and development of optical systems and technologies, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging equipment. They conduct experiments, analyze optical phenomena, and contribute to advancements in fields like telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics. Their work often involves using computer simulations, drafting technical reports, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to improve or invent new optical products.

What is the difference between Optical Research Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectOptical Research EngineerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering; often requires research experienceBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering; focus on design and implementation
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academic institutionsManufacturing, product development, engineering teams
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, universitiesOptical device manufacturers, telecom, aerospace
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Optical Research Engineers focus on developing new optical technologies and conducting experiments, often in research settings. Optical Engineers typically work on designing, testing, and implementing optical systems in commercial or industrial environments. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, their work environments and objectives differ, with research engineers emphasizing innovation and development, and optical engineers focusing on practical application and product deployment.

More about Optical Research Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Research Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Optical Research Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Research Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Optical Research Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Optical Research Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Research Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Research Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Research Engineer jobs are:
Optical Research Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Research Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Senior Optical Research Engineer

IonQ

Bothell, WA • On-site, Remote

$114K - $150K/yr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Location: This role is based at our Bothell, WA office, with the option to work a few days a week remotely.
Travel: Up to 25%, domestic
Job ID: 1608

The Role: 

We are looking for a Senior Optical Research Engineer to join our Quantum Networking Group. As an Senior Optical Research Engineer, you'll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world's best quantum computers to solve the world's most complex problems. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, performing, and analyzing quantum networking experiments to help inform the development of new and novel quantum networking applications. The ideal candidate is well versed in both the theory and experimental aspects of quantum networking, and is comfortable leading projects from first principles to experimental validation.

Responsibilities:

  • Design, simulate and test new and novel quantum networking applications.
  • Implement automated quantum tomography protocols to characterize the fidelity of networked quantum states.
  • Collaborate with the systems engineering team to translate quantum networking protocols and interconnects from the R&D stage to product.
  • Execute rigorous experimental validation of quantum networking protocols, including quantum communication, transduction and linking of different qubit modalities.
  • Derive system level requirements from experimental results, communicate and work with product and engineering teams to realize performance in real world systems.
  • Develop quantum networking metrologies, including overall network performance as well as individual optical components.

Requirements:

  •  5+ years of professional experience in Optical Engineering, Photonics, or Applied Physics with a focus on precision optical systems.
  • Master's degree in Optical Sciences, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
  • Proficiency in data analysis (e.g., Python) and instrument control (e.g., LabView, Simulink).
  • Hands-on experience with ultra-stable interferometry, fiber optics, and precision alignment of free-space optical systems.
  • Willingness to lead and own complex quantum networking projects from start to finish, starting with initial concept design up to handing off to engineering/product teams.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex electro-optical systems in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong theoretical background in quantum optics and quantum information.

Preferred Qualifications:

  •  Ph.D. in Physics or Optical Engineering with a thesis focused on Quantum Optics or Quantum Information Science.
  • Proficiency in optical design software (e.g., Zemax, Code V, or Lumerical).
  • Experience with quantum transduction or frequency conversion.
  • Familiarity with FPGA-based time-tagging and coincidence counting electronics.
  • Knowledge of laser frequency stabilization techniques and non-linear optics (e.g., SPDC, frequency conversion).
  • PIC experience

The approximate base salary range for this position is $114,750 - $150,237. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity, and a range of benefit options found on our career site.

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