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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 Systems Engineer

North Reading, MA · On-site

$111K - $178K/yr

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

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optics Internship information

See Boston, MA salary details

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How much do optics internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 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 17% Internship, 66% Full Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,126 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Internship - Research & Development

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Boston, MA

Internship

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Summary

The individual in this internship role will contribute to the advancement of neutral-atom based quantum computing technologies. You will be involved in the design, implementation, and characterization of neutral-atom quantum computing systems, and collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team of physicists, engineers, and computer scientists to push the boundaries of quantum computing using neutral-atom platforms.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in the design and build state-of-the-art neutral atom quantum computers as directed by your mentor(s).
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to verify and validate modules and subsystems for neutral atom quantum computers.
  • Investigate sources of noise and decoherence and contribute to proposed mitigation strategies.
  • Assist in experimental setups related to neutral atom quantum computing, which may include working with optical components, lasers, and atom trapping systems.
  • Analyze experimental data using the Python scientific stack to provide insights and feedback for continuous improvement in our quantum computing applications.

Qualifications

  • Pursuing a degree in physics, computer science, mathematics, or a related field.
  • Strong physics background and experience in optics.
  • Programming skills in Python, including the Python scientific stack (PyTorch, NumPy, SciPy, Pandas) are plus but not required.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.

On-site internship. There is no relocation offered for this role.

QuEra is committed to cultivating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We highly value diversity in our current and future employees and do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.