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Photonic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

High-speed Photonic Experimentalist

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$126K - $155K/yr

MS or PhD in electrical engineering, applied physics, optical engineering, photonics, or a related technical discipline. Industry experience is a plus. * Deep understanding of integrated photonic ...

Photonic Test Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$128K - $162K/yr

Meet the Team As a Photonic Test Engineer, you will play a critical role in developing/supporting the next generation component and packaging platform for Cisco's Silicon Photonics Integrated ...

High-speed Photonic Experimentalist

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$126K - $155K/yr

MS or PhD in electrical engineering, applied physics, optical engineering, photonics, or a related technical discipline. Industry experience is a plus. * Deep understanding of integrated photonic ...

Photonic Test Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$128K - $162K/yr

Meet the Team As a Photonic Test Engineer, you will play a critical role in developing/supporting the next generation component and packaging platform for Cisco's Silicon Photonics Integrated ...

High-speed Photonic Experimentalist

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$126K - $155K/yr

MS or PhD in electrical engineering, applied physics, optical engineering, photonics, or a related technical discipline. Industry experience is a plus. * Deep understanding of integrated photonic ...

Showing results 21-40

Photonic Engineer information

See California salary details

$12

$55

$79

How much do photonic engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for photonic engineer in California is $55.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.62 and $73.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a photonic engineer?

Photonic engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test systems and devices that use light (photons) for a variety of applications. This can include fiber optic communication, lasers, imaging systems, and optical sensors used in industries like telecommunications, healthcare, and manufacturing. They apply principles of physics, optics, and engineering to innovate and improve technologies that manipulate light. Photonic engineers often work in research and development, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to create cutting-edge optical solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a photonic engineer?

To thrive as a Photonic Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and engineering—typically with a degree in electrical engineering, physics, or a related field. Proficiency with optical simulation software (such as Lumerical or COMSOL), CAD tools, and experience with photonic device fabrication methods are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills set candidates apart. These skills ensure the design, analysis, and implementation of innovative photonic systems that meet both technical specifications and collaborative project goals.

What are typical collaboration opportunities for a photonic engineer within multidisciplinary teams?

Photonic Engineers often work closely with electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, software developers, and research scientists to develop and integrate photonic devices into larger systems. Collaboration can range from early-stage prototyping with design teams to troubleshooting and testing with manufacturing specialists. This multidisciplinary environment not only enhances problem-solving abilities but also provides valuable insight into adjacent fields, fostering professional growth and innovation. Being proactive in cross-functional communication is key to ensuring that photonic solutions meet project requirements and deadlines.

What is the difference between Photonic Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectPhotonic EngineerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, telecommunications, defenseTelecommunications, imaging systems, laser systems, manufacturing
Industry UsageDesign and develop photonic devices, integrated photonics, laser systemsDesign optical components, systems, and instrumentation
Common Search/ComparisonPhotonic Engineer vs Optical EngineerOptical Engineer vs Photonic Engineer

Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and work in overlapping industries. Photonic Engineers focus more on the development of photonic devices and integrated photonics, while Optical Engineers typically work on optical systems and components. The choice depends on specific project focus and industry applications.

Are photonic engineers in demand?

Photonic engineers are in demand due to the growing use of optical communication, laser systems, and photonic integrated circuits in industries such as telecommunications, defense, and healthcare. The field requires expertise in optics, photonics, and related tools, and job opportunities are expected to grow as technology advances. Strong skills in design, fabrication, and testing are valuable for employment in this area.

How much does a photonic engineer make?

The average salary for a photonic engineer typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in optical systems or laser technology can earn higher salaries, especially in research or industry-leading companies.

What job categories do people searching Photonic Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Photonic Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Photonic Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Photonic Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Photonic Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,938 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Sr. Photonic Design Engineer

Advanced Micro Devices

San Jose, CA • On-site

$180 - $260/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Advanced Micro Devices rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 161 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

ADVANCE YOUR CAREER. ADVANCE THE WORLD.

At AMD, we believetechnology has the power to solve the world’s most important challenges. From advancing healthcare and scientific discovery to powering AI and the technologies people rely on every day, innovation at AMDis shapingthefuture.

Whetheryou’redesigning next-gen processors, enabling AI breakthroughs, orbringing leading edge products to market, every role at AMD contributes to something bigger— technologythat moves the world forward.Join us and, together, we’ll advance your career.

THE ROLE:

We are seeking a seasoned technical contributor that drives end-to-end delivery of PIC solutions, directly contributing to and coordinating implementation and optimization across multiple teams for optical IO deployed in next generation AI and HPC applications. The position will involve interfacing with hardware engineering teams and AMD partners to plan, develop and optimize PIC solutions. This is an exciting opportunity to work on the cutting edge of next generation GPU Computing.

THE PERSON:

You have had significant success driving photonic PDK, device, & circuit design. You are meticulous about both DFx and software while driving schedule and managing cost. You are a subject matter expert and strong technical contributor with PIC theory, design, layout, simulation, packaging, debug, test, manufacturing, reliability, qualification and support. You excel as part of a team where communication and team skills are highly valued.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Development of OE systems in advanced Si photonics process technologies for DWDM and CWDM applications in next generation AI and HPC applications.
  • Innovation, product definition and specification of PIC architectures, TX chains, RX chains, components and test methodologies to meet demanding next generation Optical IO applications.
  • Work with systems teams to devise, maintain, simulate and optimize Optical IO link budgets reflecting key product requirements, PIC architectures, channel properties, active device component and passive component limits as well as foundry process technology capabilities.
  • Collaborate on design-for-test best practices to ensure that photonic devices will be ready for high-volume manufacturing.
  • Participate in design reviews as a subject matter expert in silicon photonic component design.
  • Work cross functionally with EIC, packaging, foundry technology, test development, and product teams to architect appropriate design and test automation solutions.
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
  • Experience developing PICs that have reached HVM, from concept to field failure analysis.
  • Subject matter expertise in silicon photonics foundry technology, device design, and circuit layout.
  • Proficient in software architecture and development for photonic design automation, test automation, and data analysis. Python and Cadence development experience is preferred.
  • Experience in photonic wafer-, die-, and package-level testing and related test instrumentation.
  • Excellent communication, management, and presentation skills.
  • Adept at collaboration among top-thinkers and senior architects with strong interpersonal skills to work across teams in different geographies
ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS:
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in related discipline preferred
LOCATION: San Jose, CA This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Benefits offered are described: AMD benefits at a glance.

AMD does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. AMD and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity, inclusive employers and will consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third-party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants’ needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.

AMD may use Artificial Intelligence to help screen, assess or select applicants for this position. AMD’s “Responsible AI Policy” is available here.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

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