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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
A Bit About Us We are Arcadia Science, an evolutionary biology company founded and led by ... Optical instrumentation is central to how we study living systems. Our current work spans ...
A Bit About Us We are Arcadia Science, an evolutionary biology company founded and led by ... Optical instrumentation is central to how we study living systems. Our current work spans ...
Senior Optical Engineer
Livermore, CA · On-site
$151K - $195K/yr
S. national security and scientific discovery. You will be part of a multidisciplinary team of ... Operate and analyze data from optical metrology equipment including interferometers ...
Senior Optical Engineer
Livermore, CA · On-site
$151K - $195K/yr
S. national security and scientific discovery. You will be part of a multidisciplinary team of ... Operate and analyze data from optical metrology equipment including interferometers ...
Senior Optical Engineer
Livermore, CA · On-site
$151K - $195K/yr
S. national security and scientific discovery. You will be part of a multidisciplinary team of ... Operate and analyze data from optical metrology equipment including interferometers ...
Senior Optical Engineer
Livermore, CA · On-site
$151K - $195K/yr
S. national security and scientific discovery. You will be part of a multidisciplinary team of ... Operate and analyze data from optical metrology equipment including interferometers ...
Adaptive Optics Engineer
$120K - $180K/yr
S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. * Experience: 5+ years of optical science/engineering experience directly related to adaptive optics systems. * Experience working with ...
Quick apply
Adaptive Optics Engineer
$120K - $180K/yr
S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. * Experience: 5+ years of optical science/engineering experience directly related to adaptive optics systems. * Experience working with ...
Adaptive Optics Engineer
Denver, CO · On-site
$120K - $180K/yr
S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. * Experience: 5+ years of optical science/engineering experience directly related to adaptive optics systems. * Experience working with ...
Adaptive Optics Engineer
Denver, CO · On-site
$120K - $180K/yr
S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. * Experience: 5+ years of optical science/engineering experience directly related to adaptive optics systems. * Experience working with ...
Adaptive Optics Engineer
Denver, CO · On-site
$120K - $180K/yr
S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. * Experience: 5+ years of optical science/engineering experience directly related to adaptive optics systems. * Experience working with ...
Adaptive Optics Engineer
Denver, CO · On-site
$120K - $180K/yr
S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. * Experience: 5+ years of optical science/engineering experience directly related to adaptive optics systems. * Experience working with ...
Senior Optics Scientist
$75K - $103K/yr
Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical ... Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ...
Senior Optics Scientist
$75K - $103K/yr
Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical ... Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ...
Senior Optics Scientist
$77K - $106K/yr
Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical ... Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ...
Senior Optics Scientist
$77K - $106K/yr
Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical ... Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ...
Optical Engineer
Boulder, CO · On-site
$120K - $145K/yr
Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the ...
Optical Engineer
Boulder, CO · On-site
$120K - $145K/yr
Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the ...
Senior Optics Scientist
Corning, NY · On-site
$75K - $103K/yr
Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical ... Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ...
Senior Optics Scientist
Corning, NY · On-site
$75K - $103K/yr
Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical ... Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ...
Optical Engineer
Boulder, CO · On-site
$120K - $145K/yr
Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the ...
Quick apply
Optical Engineer
Boulder, CO · On-site
$120K - $145K/yr
Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the ...
Optical Engineer
Boulder, CO · On-site
$120K - $145K/yr
Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the ...
Optical Engineer
Boulder, CO · On-site
$120K - $145K/yr
Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the ...
Senior Scientist
Pasadena, CA · On-site
$134K - $165K/yr
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world ... Given how important core optics and optical coatings are for LIGO today and LIGO tomorrow this is ...
Senior Scientist
Pasadena, CA · On-site
$134K - $165K/yr
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world ... Given how important core optics and optical coatings are for LIGO today and LIGO tomorrow this is ...
Optical Engineer
Boulder, CO · On-site
$120K - $145K/yr
Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the ...
Optical Engineer
Boulder, CO · On-site
$120K - $145K/yr
Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the ...
Optical Physicist
Boulder, CO · On-site
$160K - $185K/yr
Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. We are seeking an Optical Physicist to develop the next generation ...
Optical Physicist
Boulder, CO · On-site
$160K - $185K/yr
Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. We are seeking an Optical Physicist to develop the next generation ...
Optical Physicist
Boulder, CO · On-site
$160K - $185K/yr
Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. We are seeking an Optical Physicist to develop the next generation ...
Optical Physicist
Boulder, CO · On-site
$160K - $185K/yr
Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. We are seeking an Optical Physicist to develop the next generation ...
Optical Engineer
Emeryville, CA · On-site
$115K - $175K/yr
Success in this position requires strong systems thinking and comfort operating both as a scientist ... Support the Lead Optical Engineer's optical simulation and modeling efforts, contributing ...
Optical Engineer
Emeryville, CA · On-site
$115K - $175K/yr
Success in this position requires strong systems thinking and comfort operating both as a scientist ... Support the Lead Optical Engineer's optical simulation and modeling efforts, contributing ...
Optical Engineer
Emeryville, CA · On-site
$149K - $193K/yr
Success in this position requires strong systems thinking and comfort operating both as a scientist ... Support the Lead Optical Engineer's optical simulation and modeling efforts, contributing ...
Optical Engineer
Emeryville, CA · On-site
$149K - $193K/yr
Success in this position requires strong systems thinking and comfort operating both as a scientist ... Support the Lead Optical Engineer's optical simulation and modeling efforts, contributing ...
Optical Scientist information
See salary details
$14.78 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$11.78 - $15.82
34% of jobs
The median wage is $17.28 / hr.
$15.82 - $19.86
45% of jobs
$19.86 - $23.91
12% of jobs
$23.91 - $27.95
4% of jobs
$27.95 - $31.99
1% of jobs
$31.99 - $36.04
1% of jobs
$36.04 - $40.08
1% of jobs
$40.08 - $44.12
1% of jobs
$44.12 - $48.16
0% of jobs
$48.16 - $52.21
0% of jobs
$52.21 - $56.25
1% of jobs
$11
$21
$56
How much do optical scientist jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical scientist in the United States is $21.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What does an optical scientist do?
An Optical Scientist researches and develops technologies related to the behavior and manipulation of light. They work in fields like telecommunications, healthcare, defense, and manufacturing, applying principles of optics, physics, and engineering to solve complex problems. Their work often involves designing optical systems, developing new imaging techniques, or enhancing laser technologies. Optical Scientists may also collaborate with engineers and researchers to create cutting-edge optical devices for practical applications.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical scientist?
To thrive as an Optical Scientist, you need a strong background in physics, optics, or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree such as a Master's or Ph.D. Expertise with laser systems, optical simulation software (like Zemax or Code V), and laboratory instrumentation is commonly required in this role. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and collaborative skills help Optical Scientists excel in multidisciplinary research and development teams. These abilities are vital for advancing innovative optical technologies, solving complex problems, and driving successful project outcomes.
More about Optical Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Scientist jobs?
Cities with the most Optical Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Scientist jobs?
The most popular types of Optical Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Optical Scientist jobs?
States with the most job openings for Optical Scientist jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Scientist jobs?
For Optical Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Staff Scientist, Optical Modeling
Corning, NY • On-site
Corning
Full-time
Re-posted 5 days ago
Corning rating
8.3
Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
Requisition Number: 75425
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:
Corning Incorporated is hiring a Staff Scientist, Optical Modeling to join our research team at Sullivan Park in Corning, NY. This is an onsite role, Monday-Friday, with relocation support available and minimal travel (less than 10%, domestic and international).
In this role, you'll advance the fundamental understanding of optical phenomena and the interaction of light with various materials through modeling and simulation, in support of Corning products and manufacturing processes. Working within Corning's research organization at Sullivan Park, you'll apply your knowledge of optical physics, mathematical methods, and numerical computations - including ray tracing and wave optics - to influence the design of optical components, modules, and systems across Corning's businesses, including high-growth areas like optical communications and display technologies. As a subject matter expert and thought leader, you'll have the opportunity to propose and lead research initiatives, collaborate with multidisciplinary and cross-functional teams, and drive technological advancement and new scientific discovery. Backgrounds in photonics, fiber optics, integrated photonics, computational optics, and applied optical physics align strongly with the demands of this position.
Key Responsibilities
Minimum Qualifications and Skills
Preferred Qualifications and Skills
This position supports immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $119,542.00 - $164,370.00 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.
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.
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
Corning Incorporated is hiring a Staff Scientist, Optical Modeling to join our research team at Sullivan Park in Corning, NY. This is an onsite role, Monday-Friday, with relocation support available and minimal travel (less than 10%, domestic and international).
In this role, you'll advance the fundamental understanding of optical phenomena and the interaction of light with various materials through modeling and simulation, in support of Corning products and manufacturing processes. Working within Corning's research organization at Sullivan Park, you'll apply your knowledge of optical physics, mathematical methods, and numerical computations - including ray tracing and wave optics - to influence the design of optical components, modules, and systems across Corning's businesses, including high-growth areas like optical communications and display technologies. As a subject matter expert and thought leader, you'll have the opportunity to propose and lead research initiatives, collaborate with multidisciplinary and cross-functional teams, and drive technological advancement and new scientific discovery. Backgrounds in photonics, fiber optics, integrated photonics, computational optics, and applied optical physics align strongly with the demands of this position.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as a technical subject matter expert, proposing and leading research initiatives that advance Corning's optical technologies
- Develop and implement optical models to study light behavior in glass, thin films, waveguides, optical fiber components, and connectivity solutions
- Analyze optical physics problems through simulation to identify solutions, define operating conditions, and optimize designs
- Partner with experimental teams to validate modeling results against measured data and propose measurement techniques needed to accurately model systems of interest
- Build software tools and modeling capabilities that support both current business needs and future technology direction
- Contribute to multidisciplinary projects and translate modeling results into practical recommendations
- Document results in technical reports and patent applications
Minimum Qualifications and Skills
- PhD in optical sciences, physics, or a closely related discipline
- Broad knowledge of optics, including experience simulating optical systems using both ray tracing and wave-propagation methods
- Experience modeling optical fiber components, optical waveguides, connectivity solutions, and light scattering
- Working knowledge of numerical techniques such as finite element, frequency-domain and time-domain methods
- Experience with scientific computing and code development
- Hands-on experience with industry-standard optical simulation tools such as Lumerical, Zemax, COMSOL, RSoft, or LightTools
- Strong communicator who works well independently and across diverse teams, with a proactive, solution-oriented approach and a commitment to advancing the state-of-the-art
Preferred Qualifications and Skills
- 3+ years of experience in optical physics modeling and simulation
- Industrial experience designing optical components, modules, or systems
- Experience modeling optical fiber transmission links
- Working knowledge of computational physics and mathematical algorithms
- Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, and/or C/C++
- Familiarity with Linux, software engineering practices, version control, and test suites
- Experience using AI-enabled tools to write code or generate software for optical physics modeling
This position supports immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $119,542.00 - $164,370.00 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.
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.