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Photonic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cisco

Photonic Packaging Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$134K - $195K/yr

As a Photonic Packaging Engineer in our Optics group, you will play a key role in developing/supporting the next generation packaging platform for Cisco's Silicon Photonics Integrated Circuits and ...

Cisco

Photonic Packaging Engineer

Carlsbad, CA

$136K - $198K/yr

As a Photonic Packaging Engineer in Cisco's elite Optics group, you won't just build components-you will engineer the very foundation of Silicon Photonics, crafting advanced packaging platforms and ...

PsiQuantum

Photonic Circuits Designer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

We are looking for a circuit design engineer to join the team. This is an individual contributor ... PIC designs particularly relevant to this role are complex photonic switch networks.

PsiQuantum

Photonic Circuits Designer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$24 - $29.50/hr

We are looking for a circuit design engineer to join the team. This is an individual contributor ... PIC designs particularly relevant to this role are complex photonic switch networks.

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Photonic Engineer information

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$12

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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 are popular job titles related to Photonic Engineer jobs in California?

For Photonic Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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:

Photonic Engineer jobs near you
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.

Staff Photonic Integrated Circuit Design Engineer

Nokia

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$139K - $258K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Nokia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 101 rated telecommunications companies

Job description


In an increasingly connected world, the pandemic has highlighted just how essential telecom networks are to keeping society running. The Network Infrastructure group is at the heart of a revolution to connectivity, pushing the boundaries to deliver more and faster network capacity to people worldwide through our ambition, innovation, and technical expertise
Join Optical Networks division, where innovation meets scale in the AI-driven data center era. With the recent acquisition of Infinera, we've united two industry leaders to create an optical networking powerhouse-combining cutting-edge technology with proven leadership to redefine the future of connectivity.
NION2026
Responsibilities
  • Strong background with semiconductor optical devices such as lasers, detectors, modulators and other integrated waveguide devices.

  • A strong understanding of optical components fabrication, epitaxy and component level testing.

  • Familiar with photonic integrated circuit layout methodology and EAD tools

  • Experience with RF design, simulation, and use of optical and electrical modeling tools such as HFSS, ADS to design electro-optical devices

  • Experience in creating designed experiments to map device performance

  • Fundamental understanding of optical communication systems, DWDM transmission systems, photonic integrated components, electronic (integrated) circuits, and signal analysis and processing.

  • Ability to work with a large body of data and the necessary statistical analysis tools, and the ability to present the data and ideas to a diverse audience.

  • Ability to work in an integrated team environment.

  • Job will require frequent interaction with fab, test and reliability engineering, packaging and system engineering groups, as well as with product engineering personnel.

Qualifications
Ph.D in Electrical Engineering, Photonics or a related discipline with emphasis in optical communications and high speed optical components. Desired are candidates with significant industrial experience in the optical components industry.

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