1

Optics Internship Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

The ideal candidate has a solid foundation in physics and optics fundamentals, genuine time logged at an optical bench--from research, lab coursework, internships, or personal builds--and the ...

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

The ideal candidate has a solid foundation in physics and optics fundamentals, genuine time logged at an optical bench--from research, lab coursework, internships, or personal builds--and the ...

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

The ideal candidate has a solid foundation in physics and optics fundamentals, genuine time logged at an optical bench--from research, lab coursework, internships, or personal builds--and the ...

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

... internships all count. * Demonstrated bench experience aligning free-space optics (lasers, lenses, mirrors, beamsplitters) and/or working with fiber optics. * Experience with laboratory equipment ...

Optical Systems Engineer

Reading, MA · On-site

$111K - $178K/yr

Foundational experience with optical systems, photonics, or optoelectronic devices through coursework, research, or internships * Hands-on laboratory experience with optical alignment, measurement ...

Foundational experience with optical systems, photonics, or optoelectronic devices through coursework, research, or internships * Handson laboratory experience with optical alignment, measurement ...

... paid internship and gain confidence for a productive transition into a full-time career upon ... Junior or higher enrolled in Materials Science, Metallurgical, Mining, Chemical, Civil, Optical ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Optics Internship information

See Boston, MA salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do optics internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for optics internship in Boston, MA is $16.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optics internship?

An optics internship is a temporary position designed for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in the field of optics, which involves the study and application of light and its properties. Interns typically work in research labs, manufacturing settings, or engineering teams, assisting with projects related to lasers, lenses, fiber optics, and optical instruments. These internships help participants develop practical skills, expand their professional network, and explore potential career paths in optics or photonics.

What types of projects and hands-on experiences can I expect during an optics internship?

During an Optics Internship, you can expect to work on a variety of projects such as designing and testing optical systems, assembling laboratory experiments, and analyzing optical data. Interns often collaborate closely with engineers and scientists, gaining exposure to industry-standard equipment and software. You may also assist in troubleshooting experimental setups or participate in research on topics like laser optics, fiber optics, or imaging systems. These experiences provide valuable practical skills and insights into the field, preparing you for future roles in optics or photonics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optics intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optics Intern, you need a foundation in physics or engineering, with coursework or experience in optics and photonics. Familiarity with optical design software (like Zemax or LightTools), laboratory equipment, and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help interns excel in collaborative research and technical reporting. These competencies ensure interns can contribute meaningfully to projects, adapt to technical challenges, and communicate findings clearly within the team.
Infographic showing various Optics Internship job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, 62% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,126 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Optics-Physics Sensor Engineering Co-op (Spring 2027)

Draper Labs

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$20 - $45/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Overview:

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary:

Optics-Physics Sensor Engineering Co-ops and Interns at Draper will primarily support the research and development of precision inertial guidance and imaging instruments for existing customers. It is expected that co-ops will contribute to projects that include electro-optical design, optical and thermal model development, materials testing, electrical system design, hardware assembly, test, and debug. Specific task areas include but are not limited to: Optical and photonic component test and evaluation including design and fabrication of custom optical evaluation setups, optical and electronic modeling, optical system assembly including micro
Students are expected to work with programs such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, SolidWorks, COMSOL, ANSYS, Mentor Graphics, Python, and GitLab.
DURATION: This position will run for 6 months, from January through June of 2027.
QUALIFICATIONS
Physics, materials science, or electrical engineering student with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, and hands-on experience required. Additional desirable experience: Optical design, thermal control, electro-optic component test and evaluation, circuit theory, machine shop interaction, technical assembly, Excel, LabVIEW, MATLAB, ACAD, Mentor Graphics, Python, and GitLab.
* Due to the nature of the work at Draper, US Citizenship status is required. Draper is unable to sponsor or hire individuals holding H1B or Student Visas. Dual-citizens are unable to be accepted for this position.

Job Description:

Additional Job Description:

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

The US base salary range for this full-time position is

$20.00 - $45.00

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.