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Optics Photonics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IPG Photonics

Optical Technician

Marlborough, MA · On-site

... photonics, medical device, aerospace, or high-tech manufacturing environments * Strong experience working with fiber optics, laser systems, optical assemblies, or precision electro-optical equipment

QCi

Applications Engineer- Photonics

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

Applications Engineer, Photonics About Us Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) (Nasdaq: QUBT) is an ... Identify and pursue high-value applications and programs in lasers, photonic devices, and optical ...

Ciena

Optical System Architect

New Providence, NJ

$117K - $188K/yr

Master's degree (+) in Optics/Photonics, Physics, or Electrical Engineering with industry experience in simulation, measurement, or system architecture * Knowledge of high-speed photonics and optical ...

Ciena

Optical System Architect

New Providence, NJ · On-site

$117K - $188K/yr

Master's degree (+) in Optics/Photonics, Physics, or Electrical Engineering with industry experience in simulation, measurement, or system architecture * Knowledge of high-speed photonics and optical ...

QCi

Perform optical and electrical modeling using tools such as Lumerical, COMSOL, FDTD, and Matlab ... D. in Optics, Photonics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. * 10+ years of industrial ...

Lightmatter

Staff Photonics Design Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$200K - $225K/yr

Publish novel photonics results, and participate in premier optics/photonics conferences. Required Qualifications: * PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or related discipline with 3 ...

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Optics Photonics information

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$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optics photonics jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for optics photonics in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Does NASA hire optical engineers?

Yes, NASA hires optical engineers to work on projects involving space optics, laser systems, and imaging technologies. These roles often require expertise in optics, photonics, and related engineering skills, and may involve working in specialized laboratories or on spacecraft development.

What are the career opportunities in photonics?

Optics photonics offers career opportunities in research and development, manufacturing, and systems design across industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, defense, and consumer electronics. Roles include optical engineer, photonics technician, research scientist, and systems integrator, often requiring knowledge of laser systems, fiber optics, and relevant certifications. These careers typically involve working in labs, cleanrooms, or technical environments with a focus on innovation and precision.

Is photonics a good career?

Optics photonics is a growing field that involves the study and application of light and laser technologies, with careers available in research, manufacturing, and telecommunications. It often requires strong skills in physics, engineering, and technical problem-solving, and may involve working with specialized tools and equipment. The demand for photonics professionals is expected to increase as industries adopt advanced optical technologies.

What is the difference between Optics Photonics vs Optical Engineer?

AspectOptics PhotonicsOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optics, photonics, physicsBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, R&D departmentsDesign, testing, and development in labs or industrial settings
Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, defense, healthcareOptical systems design, laser development, imaging systems

Optics Photonics professionals focus on the study and application of light, including lasers, fiber optics, and photonic devices, often involving research and development. Optical Engineers design and develop optical systems and components for practical applications. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, Optics Photonics emphasizes fundamental research, whereas Optical Engineers focus on system design and implementation.

Is photonics the future of AI?

Optics Photonics professionals are increasingly involved in developing photonic components and systems that can enhance AI processing speeds and energy efficiency. Photonic technologies, such as integrated photonic circuits and optical interconnects, are expected to play a significant role in advancing high-speed data transmission and computation for AI applications.
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Optics Photonics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optics Photonics job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Optical Technician

Optical Technician

IPG Photonics

Marlborough, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

IPG Photonics rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

106th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

About IPG Photonics Medical
At IPG Photonics Medical, we're redefining how photonics enables healthcare innovation. Our advanced fiber laser technologies power some of the most cutting-edge surgical tools and therapeutic systems in the world. Precision, safety, and reliability aren't just goals-they're non-negotiables.
We're growing and looking for an experienced Optical Assembly Technician who's ready to build technology that matters. If you're passionate about optics, precision assembly, fiber laser systems, and medical device manufacturing, you'll fit right in.
What You'll Be Doing
  • Perform precision optical and electromechanical assembly of Class I & II medical laser systems, including fiber optic assemblies, optical sub-systems, laser delivery components, and mechanical assemblies
  • Execute optical alignment, inspection, and integration activities for laser-based medical devices
  • Assemble and test fiber optic components, connectors, optical adapters, and laser modules with high accuracy and attention to detail
  • Follow detailed assembly procedures, schematics, engineering drawings, and optical work instructions
  • Perform functional testing and troubleshooting using multimeters, power meters, oscilloscopes, fiber inspection scopes, and custom optical test equipment
  • Collaborate closely with Engineering and Quality teams to troubleshoot optical performance issues, implement corrective actions, and support product improvements
  • Maintain compliance with GMP, ISO 13485, and FDA manufacturing standards
  • Accurately document assembly steps, optical test results, and material traceability within ERP and DHR systems
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on assembly efficiency, quality, and process repeatability
  • Work within cleanroom and controlled-environment manufacturing areas when required

  • 3-5 years of hands-on experience in optical, photonics, medical device, aerospace, or high-tech manufacturing environments
  • Strong experience working with fiber optics, laser systems, optical assemblies, or precision electro-optical equipment
  • Familiarity with optical alignment techniques and handling sensitive optical components
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, optical schematics, BOMs, and assembly documentation
  • Experience using optical inspection tools, fiber scopes, multimeters, power supplies, and precision assembly fixtures
  • Skilled in micro-assembly techniques, soldering, cable routing, and precision mechanical assembly
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving capabilities within regulated manufacturing environments
  • Excellent documentation, organization, and communication skills
  • Self-motivated team player capable of working independently with minimal supervision

Bonus Points For
  • Experience with fiber laser systems or surgical laser devices
  • IPC-A-610 / IPC-A-620 certification
  • Experience working in ISO Class 7 cleanroom environments
  • Familiarity with optical power measurements, fiber termination, or laser safety practices
  • Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or Navision

What You'll Love
  • Working with some of the most advanced photonics and laser technologies in the world
  • A collaborative team environment with opportunities for growth into quality, engineering, or leadership roles
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits including health, dental, PTO, and 401(k)
  • Being part of a company developing devices that directly improve patient outcomes

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