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Optical Spectroscopy Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

IPG Photonics

Laser Scientist

Marlborough, MA

Working knowledge of laser physics, condensed matter physics and optical spectroscopy * Deep expertise in nonlinear optics, frequency conversion, including operation in DUV/VUV regimes * Experience ...

IPG Photonics

Laser Scientist

Marlborough, MA · On-site

Working knowledge of laser physics, condensed matter physics and optical spectroscopy * Deep expertise in nonlinear optics, frequency conversion, including operation in DUV/VUV regimes * Experience ...

L3HHCM20

Lead, Optical Engineering

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Lead, Optical Engineering Job Code: 40446 Job Location: Wilmington, Massachusetts Job Schedule: 9 ... electromagnetic spectrum. Most of these systems function in a space environment. Mission ...

L3HHCM20

Scientist, Optical Engineer - MA

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$161K - $300K/yr

Job Title: Scientist, Optical Engineer (Space Optical Systems) Job Code: 40372 Job Location ... electromagnetic spectrum. Most of these systems function in a space environment. Mission ...

IonQ

Senior Photonic Test Development Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

Requirements: * 3+ years of professional experience in optical spectroscopy, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. * Master or Ph.D. in engineering, physics, or a related field ...

IPG Photonics

Technician II

Oxford, MA · On-site

$39K - $49K/yr

Knowledge of multimeters, oscilloscopes, optical spectrum analyzers and laser beam profiling equipment preferred * Ability to work in required cleanroom dress, i.e., gloves, bonnets, frocks, shoe ...

IPG Photonics

Technician II

Oxford, MA

$39K - $49K/yr

Knowledge of multimeters, oscilloscopes, optical spectrum analyzers and laser beam profiling equipment preferred * Ability to work in required cleanroom dress, i.e., gloves, bonnets, frocks, shoe ...

IPG Photonics

Technician II

Oxford, MA · On-site

$39K - $49K/yr

Knowledge of multimeters, oscilloscopes, optical spectrum analyzers and laser beam profiling equipment preferred * Ability to work in required cleanroom dress, i.e., gloves, bonnets, frocks, shoe ...

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All JobsOptical Spectroscopy JobsOptical Spectroscopy Jobs in Massachusetts

Optical Spectroscopy information

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$13

$19

$24

How much do optical spectroscopy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical spectroscopy in Massachusetts is $19.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $20.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical spectroscopist?

To excel as an Optical Spectroscopist, you need a strong background in physics, chemistry, and mathematics, typically with a relevant degree such as physics or materials science. Familiarity with spectroscopic instruments, data analysis software, and laboratory safety procedures is essential, often supported by experience with tools like MATLAB or LabVIEW. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication are valuable soft skills for interpreting results and collaborating with research teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate data collection, meaningful analysis, and effective contribution to scientific or industrial advancements.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in optical spectroscopy, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in optical spectroscopy often encounter challenges such as instrument calibration, interference from ambient light, and sample preparation consistency. Managing these issues typically involves regular maintenance and calibration of equipment, working in controlled environments, and adhering to standardized protocols for sample handling. Collaboration with team members, including chemists and engineers, is common for troubleshooting and optimizing experimental setups. Staying updated with advancements in spectroscopy techniques and software also helps in overcoming technical hurdles and improving data accuracy.

What is the difference between Optical Spectroscopy vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical Spectroscopy

Credential RequirementsTypically requires a degree in physics, chemistry, or related field; certifications in spectroscopy are common.
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, research facilities, or industrial labs.
Industry UsageUsed in scientific research, material analysis, and quality control.

Optical Spectroscopy involves analyzing light spectra to study materials, requiring advanced technical knowledge and specialized equipment. In contrast, an Optical Technician primarily assists in setting up optical devices, performing maintenance, and supporting optical systems. While both roles work with optical equipment, Optical Spectroscopy is research-focused with a deeper understanding of spectral analysis, whereas Optical Technicians focus on operational support and equipment handling.

What is optical spectroscopy?

Optical spectroscopy is a technique used to study the interaction between light (typically in the ultraviolet, visible, or infrared range) and matter. By analyzing how materials absorb, emit, or scatter light, scientists can determine the composition, structure, and properties of substances. This method is widely used in fields like chemistry, physics, biology, and material science for both qualitative and quantitative analysis.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Spectroscopy jobs in Massachusetts? The most popular types of Optical Spectroscopy jobs in Massachusetts are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Spectroscopy jobs in Massachusetts? For Optical Spectroscopy jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Spectroscopy jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Spectroscopy jobs in Massachusetts are:
Optical Spectroscopy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Spectroscopy job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,943 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

OPTICAL ENGINEER III - FIBER LASER

Lumibird USA

West Springfield, MA

$125K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

OPTICAL ENGINEER III - FIBER LASER

Drawing on 50 years of experience, Lumibird designs, manufactures, and distributes laser solutions for scientific, industrial, and medical use from its various sites in the USA and abroad (France, Italy, Slovenia, Sweden, Australia, etc.). Distinguished by its expertise, numerous patents, steady growth, and a workforce spanning roles from production operators to research scientists, the Lumibird Group currently employs over 1,000 people worldwide. Firmly committed to sustainable development, the Lumibird Group contributes to the ecological and social transition by implementing an ambitious CSR policy.

To support our expanding operations, we are currently seeking candidates for our West Springfield, Massachusetts site.

JOB SUMMARY:
Optical Engineer III supports the development, testing, troubleshooting, and productization of high-power CW/QCW fiber laser systems for medical and industrial applications.
This role focuses on practical fiber laser development, including optical fiber handling, fiber preparation, splicing, laser assembly, optical testing, beam characterization, performance analysis, and product-level troubleshooting. The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience with optical fiber and laser systems, solid knowledge of fiber laser physics, and the ability to use optical and electrical test equipment to evaluate laser performance.
This position requires regular work with laser hardware, optical fibers, high-power optical components, and test equipment. The engineer must be able to work independently, analyze technical issues in a structured manner, document results clearly, and help maintain an organized, safe, and efficient laser lab.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Support the development, assembly, testing, and optimization of high-power CW/QCW fiber laser systems and optical subassemblies.
  • Perform optical fiber preparation, including stripping, cleaning, cleaving, splicing, routing, inspection, fiber protection, and use of related fiber handling equipment and tools.
  • Work with fiber laser components such as active fibers, passive fibers, FBGs, pump combiners, fiber-coupled diodes, delivery fibers, and high-power fiber assemblies.
  • Use optical and electrical test equipment such as power meters, optical spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, beam profilers, thermal sensors, current/voltage monitors, and similar instruments.
  • Characterize laser performance, including output power, spectrum, efficiency, pulse behavior, power stability, thermal behavior, beam size, divergence, pointing behavior, and beam quality.
  • Perform near-field and far-field beam profile measurements and analyze beam behavior under different operating conditions.
  • Troubleshoot optical, fiber, thermal, electrical, and system-level issues using a structured analytical approach, including test planning, data analysis, and root-cause identification.
  • Support testing related to back-reflection sensitivity, optical feedback, thermal effects, mode behavior, long-term stability, reliability, and high-power laser failure modes.
  • Support failure analysis, corrective actions, design improvements, process improvements, production transfer, and product repeatability.
  • Prepare and maintain engineering documentation, including test reports, work instructions, test procedures, acceptance criteria, design evaluations, and failure analysis reports.
  • Help maintain an organized, safe, and efficient laser lab, including proper storage of optical components, fibers, tools, fixtures, samples, and test equipment.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or a related technical field.
  • If recent graduate, then Masters or PhD or equivalent working experience preferred.
  • Minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience with fiber optics, fiber lasers, laser systems, optical testing, or related photonics laboratory work.
  • Experience with high-power CW/QCW fiber lasers, thulium-doped fiber lasers, or other rare-earth-doped fiber laser systems is preferred.
REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:
  • Strong hands-on experience with optical fiber handling, including stripping, cleaning, cleaving, splicing, routing, inspection, fiber protection, and use of related fiber handling equipment and tools.
  • Working knowledge of fiber laser physics, including laser cavity behavior, gain, pump absorption, thermal effects, optical feedback, back-reflection sensitivity, and power stability.
  • Experience using optical and electrical test equipment such as power meters, OSAs, oscilloscopes, beam profilers, thermal sensors, current/voltage monitors, or similar instruments.
  • Ability to characterize laser performance, including output power, spectrum, efficiency, pulse behavior, stability, beam size, pointing behavior, divergence, and beam quality.
  • Strong analytical troubleshooting skills for optical, fiber, thermal, and laser system-level issues.
  • Ability to work independently while maintaining good lab safety, documentation, and organization.
  • Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, applicable CAD tools, etc).
PREFERRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:
  • Experience with large-mode-area fibers, pump/signal combiners, FBGs, end caps, free-space optics, or high-power fiber delivery systems.
  • Familiarity with high-power laser failure modes, including fiber damage, thermal instability, mode behavior, back reflection, and component contamination.
  • Experience supporting product development, design improvements, production transfer, reliability testing, or failure analysis.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be capable of working in front of a computer screen for long periods of time.
  • Standing and working at optical tables in laser labs for extended periods of time.
  • Good close-up vision for inspecting optics and other laser components.
  • Ability to use fingers and hands to manipulate small objects.

Lumibird Photonics USA Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We consider applicants for all positions on the basis of qualifications and without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender, marital status, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation and any other legally protected status.

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