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Optics Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Optikos, LLC.

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in optics and a willingness to learn anything and everything about optics. Creativity, curiosity, adaptability, and openness to feedback are essential.

Optikos

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in optics and a willingness to learn anything and everything about optics. Creativity, curiosity, adaptability, and openness to feedback are essential.

Optikos Corporation

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in optics and a willingness to learn anything and everything about optics. Creativity, curiosity, adaptability, and openness to feedback are essential.

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA

$130K - $170K/yr

The ideal candidate will combine a solid fundamental understanding of optics with strong laboratory skills and a desire to grow as an engineer within an enterprise engineering environment. Key Job ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

The ideal candidate will combine a solid fundamental understanding of optics with strong laboratory skills and a desire to grow as an engineer within an enterprise engineering environment. Key Job ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOptics JobsOptics Jobs in Boston, MA

Optics information

See Boston, MA salary details

$90.2K

$156K

$183K

How much do optics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for optics in Boston, MA is $156,011.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $140,100.00 and $181,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is optics?

Optics jobs involve working with the science and technology of light, including its generation, manipulation, transmission, and detection. Professionals in this field may work as optical engineers, technicians, or researchers, designing lenses, lasers, fiber optics, and imaging systems for applications in industries like telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, and defense. These roles often require a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering, and they can be found in both research and practical, hands-on settings.

What is a job in optics?

A job in optics involves designing, testing, and manufacturing optical devices such as lenses, microscopes, and lasers. Professionals in this field often work in research, development, or manufacturing environments and may require knowledge of physics, engineering, and specialized tools like optical testing equipment.

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

To thrive as an Optics Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and optical engineering, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laser systems, and photonics instrumentation is commonly required, along with relevant certifications. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating on complex projects and conveying technical information. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing innovative optical systems, ensuring precision, and meeting project requirements in industries like telecommunications, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Is optics a good career?

Optics is a specialized field within physics and engineering that involves designing and developing optical systems, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. It offers opportunities in research, manufacturing, and technology development, often requiring strong technical skills and knowledge of physics and mathematics. The career can be stable and well-paying for those with relevant education and experience.

What jobs use optics?

Jobs that use optics include optical engineers, laser technicians, and photonics scientists, who design, develop, and test optical systems and devices. These roles often require knowledge of optics principles, precision measurement tools, and sometimes security clearances or specialized certifications. Industries include telecommunications, aerospace, medical devices, and defense.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in optics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in optics often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies, ensuring precision in measurements and alignments, and troubleshooting complex optical systems. To address these issues, it's important to stay current through continued education, collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, and develop strong problem-solving skills. Many optics roles also emphasize hands-on experience and the ability to adapt to new tools or software, so proactive learning and effective communication are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Optics vs Optical Technician?

AspectOpticsOptical Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in physics, optics, or related fieldOften requires a certificate or associate degree in optical technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, academiaOptical labs, manufacturing facilities, retail optical stores
Industry UsageResearch, development, manufacturing of optical devicesAssembly, testing, and fitting of optical instruments and eyewear

Optics generally refers to the scientific study and development of light and optical systems, often requiring advanced education. Optical Technicians focus on assembling, testing, and maintaining optical devices, typically with technical certifications. While both roles work within the optical industry, Optics is more research-oriented, whereas Optical Technicians are more hands-on in manufacturing and service environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optics jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Optics jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Optics jobs in Boston, MA? For Optics jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optics jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Optics jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Optics jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Optics job openings:
Optics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optics job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $156,011 per year, or $75 per hour.

Scientist: Senior Quantum Optics, Atomic Physics Scientist

Nanobiosym

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Please fully fill out our online application and upload your cover letter and resume or your application will not be considered.
Description of Company:
Nanobiosym stands at the forefront of transforming personalized medicine, breakthrough technologies, and global healthcare delivery. Founded by a distinguished MIT- and Harvard-trained Physician and Physicist, Nanobiosym develops pioneering platform technologies that leverage cutting-edge advances in physics, biomedicine, and nanotechnology.
As the first-ever recipient of the XPRIZE for healthcare and the winner of multiple prestigious peer-reviewed research awards, Nanobiosym is expanding its world-class team as it transitions into a global commercial enterprise.
Senior Quantum Optics, Atomic Physics Scientist
We are seeking an exceptional Senior Optical Physicist with deep expertise in experimental and applied optics. Ideal candidates will possess a PhD (or equivalent experience) in Experimental Physics, Optical Physics, Atomic Physics (Advanced Instrumentation, Signal to noise optimization), Electrical Engineering, or a related field, with 5+ years of hands-on research experience.
Key Technical Qualifications
  • Extensive, hands-on optical bench expertise, including the design, construction, alignment, and maintenance of complex optical setups involving advanced laser sources.
  • Strong foundation in optical physics, with proven ability to model, analyze, troubleshoot, and refine sophisticated optical systems.
  • Experience in quantum optics and atomic physics, such as laser-matter interactions, single-molecule imaging, precision measurement techniques, advanced detection systems, or atomic-scale instrumentation (preferred).
  • Demonstrated experience in laser trapping and laser cooling for cold atoms or related precision laser-based manipulation applications (preferred).
  • Optical tweezers design and operation is required.
  • Mastery of high-precision optical alignment across multiple degrees of freedom.
  • Advanced programming proficiency in LabVIEW and MATLAB.
  • Strong competence in data acquisition, signal processing, and statistical analysis.
  • Experience working with acousto-optic modulators/deflectors and other high-precision photonics components.
  • Expertise in signal-to-noise optimization, including vibration isolation methodologies and noise-reduction strategies.
  • Additional experience with mechanical CAD, machine shop tools, and opto-mechanical design is a strong plus.

Professional Attributes
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple parallel projects within a fast-paced startup environment.
  • Demonstrates a proactive, solution-driven mindset with a strong "can-do" attitude.
  • Excellent communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills.
  • Thrives in an interdisciplinary environment working alongside physicists, engineers, biologists, entrepreneurs, and senior executives

Apply