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Optical Spectroscopy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mesh Optical Technologies

Optical Test Engineer

Gardena, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Hands-on experience with optical test equipment (e.g., power meters, interferometers, spectrum analyzers) * 1+ years of programming experience (e.g., C++, LabVIEW, and/or Python) * Willingness to ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Virginia, IL · On-site

$78 - $176/hr

Experience with pulsed lasers, fiber optics, free-space optics, nonlinear optics, spectroscopy, imaging and radiometric tools, or integrated photonics* Experience analyzing the effectiveness of HEL ...

New

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$78 - $176/hr

Experience with pulsed lasers, fiber optics, free‑space optics, nonlinear optics, spectroscopy, imaging and radiometric tools, or integrated photonics * Experience analyzing the effectiveness of ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

Experience with pulsed lasers, fiber optics, free-space optics, nonlinear optics, spectroscopy, imaging and radiometric tools, or integrated photonics * Experience analyzing the effectiveness of HEL ...

Lumilens

Optical Test Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

Hands-on experience with optical test instruments (e.g., optical spectrum analyzers, power meters, polarization controllers, bit-error-rate testers) * Familiarity with communication interfaces and ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

$78 - $176/hr

Experience with pulsed lasers, fiber optics, free-space optics, nonlinear optics, spectroscopy, imaging and radiometric tools, or integrated photonics* Experience analyzing the effectiveness of HEL ...

New

Lumilens

Optical Test Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

Hands-on experience with optical test instruments (e.g., optical spectrum analyzers, power meters, polarization controllers, bit-error-rate testers) * Familiarity with communication interfaces and ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

Experience with pulsed lasers, fiber optics, free-space optics, nonlinear optics, spectroscopy, imaging and radiometric tools, or integrated photonics * Experience analyzing the effectiveness of HEL ...

Lumilens

Optical Test Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Hands-on experience with optical test instruments (e.g., optical spectrum analyzers, power meters, polarization controllers, bit-error-rate testers) * Familiarity with communication interfaces and ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

Experience with pulsed lasers, fiber optics, free-space optics, nonlinear optics, spectroscopy, imaging and radiometric tools, or integrated photonics * Experience analyzing the effectiveness of HEL ...

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Optical Spectroscopy information

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How much do optical spectroscopy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical spectroscopy 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 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 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.

More about Optical Spectroscopy jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Spectroscopy jobs?

The most popular types of Optical Spectroscopy jobs are:

What states have the most Optical Spectroscopy jobs?

States with the most job openings for Optical Spectroscopy jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Optical Spectroscopy jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Spectroscopy jobs are:

Optical Spectroscopy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Spectroscopy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,574 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Optical / Photonics Validation Engineering, Senior Director

Astera Labs

San Jose, CA

$151K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Optical Photonics Validation Leader

Overview

We are looking for an Optical Validation Engineering, Senior Director to drive the characterization, validation, and qualification of near-packaged optics (NPO) and co-packaged optics (CPO) systems. In this role, you will define and implement the validation approach that ensures the optical, electrical, and thermal performance of advanced photonic interconnects used in next-generation data center and networking platforms.

You will work at the intersection of silicon photonics, packaging, electrical design, and systems engineering to ensure robust product performance from prototype to production.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead a team that owns the optical validation strategy and roadmap for optical connectivity products.

  • Develop and execute comprehensive validation and test plans covering optical coupling, insertion loss, signal integrity, thermal stability, and reliability metrics.

  • Define optical test methodologies for complex integrated systems involving photonic, electrical, and mechanical interfaces.

  • Collaborate with design, packaging, and system architecture teams to translate product specifications into measurable validation criteria.

  • Establish automated test frameworks for high-throughput optical and electrical validation (instrument control, data analysis, and reporting).

  • Analyze measurement data to identify performance trends, failure modes, and root causes.

  • Lead design-of-experiments (DOE) initiatives to optimize system performance and yield.

  • Interface with manufacturing, reliability, and quality teams to ensure seamless transition to volume production and long-term reliability.

  • Mentor junior engineers and promote best practices in optical validation and measurement science.

Qualifications

  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or equivalent field.

  • 8+ years of experience in optical module testing, photonic component validation, or high-speed interconnect qualification.

  • Deep understanding of optical measurements (IL, RL, BER, eye diagrams, mode coupling), optical alignment, and signal characterization.

  • Hands-on experience with optical instrumentation (optical spectrum analyzers, BERTs, network analyzers, power meters, interferometers).

  • Strong background in data analysis, automation scripting (Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB), and statistical validation methods.

  • Familiarity with packaging-related optical performance dependencies (thermo-mechanical stress, optical coupling efficiency, etc.).

  • Excellent collaboration and communication skills, with a proven ability to align across multidisciplinary hardware teams.

Preferred Experience

  • Experience with co-packaged optics, silicon photonics assemblies, and near-packaged optical interfaces.

  • Knowledge of industry standards and compliance testing (IEEE 802.3, OIF, or custom CPO protocols).

  • Understanding of reliability qualification (HTOL, TC, mechanical shock/vibration for optical components).

  • Familiarity with system-level validation for networking and hyperscale data center environments.

Apply