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Optics Photonics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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How much do optics photonics jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 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.

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.

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What cities are hiring for Optics Photonics jobs? Cities with the most Optics Photonics job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optics Photonics jobs? The most popular types of Optics Photonics jobs are:
What states have the most Optics Photonics jobs? States with the most job openings for Optics Photonics jobs include:
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Optics Photonics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optics Photonics job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Optical System Architect

Optical System Architect

Ciena Corporation

New Providence, NJ • On-site

$117K - $188K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We're a technology company that leads with our humanity-driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.
Join Ciena's xPO System Architecture and Simulation team driving next-generation optical interconnect innovation for AI-scale systems. This role shapes the architecture of emerging Near-Packaged Optics (NPO) and Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) solutions, ensuring industry-leading performance across integrated photonics, packaging, and system-level design.
How you will make an impact:
  • Define architectures for current and future xPO interconnect products
  • Evaluate high-level system requirements and translate them into subcomponent specifications for engineering teams
  • Lead system-level modeling and simulation efforts to enable end-to-end performance validation
  • Correlate simulated and measured performance data to refine internal models
  • Advance internally developed Python-based link simulation tools
  • Collaborate across photonic integrated circuits (PICs), electrical integrated circuit (EICs), packaging, and other engineering groups to optimize system design
  • Present system insights and results to internal and external stakeholders

The must haves:
  • 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 system design with emphasis on integrated photonics
  • Understanding of signal integrity principles and intensity modulation/direct detection (IMDD) transceiver design
  • Proficiency in Python programming
  • Ability to synthesize complex technical findings into clear communication

Nice to haves:
  • PhD in Optics/Photonics, Physics, or Electrical Engineering
  • Familiarity with IEEE and Optical Internetworking Forum (OIF) standards
  • Experience with signal integrity and power integrity analysis
  • Knowledge of digital signal processing and numerical analysis
  • Background in silicon photonics
  • Experience with high-speed test and measurement tools such as vector network analyzers (VNAs), bit-error-rate testers (BERTs), and oscilloscopes

Pay Range:
The annual pay range for this position is $117,800 - $188,200
Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.
Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.
At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.
Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.

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