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Photonic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nokia

Photonic Test Engineer

Murray Hill, NJ

As a Photonic Test Engineer, you will develop automated manufacturing test solutions and provide technical support to our manufacturing partners. You will be a part of an international test ...

PsiQuantum

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 ...

Cisco

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 ...

PsiQuantum

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 ...

Cisco

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 ...

PsiQuantum

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 ...

IonQ

Senior Photonic Test Development Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Photonic Test Development Engineer to join our Quantum Interconnect Division. As a Senior Photonic Test Development Engineer, you'll be part of a cross-functional team ...

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Photonic Engineer information

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$55

$80

How much do photonic engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for photonic engineer in the United States is $55.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.14 and $74.52 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.
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Photonic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photonic Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,463 per year, or $56 per hour.

Photonic Test Engineer

Nokia

Murray Hill, NJ

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 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

We are looking for a highly motivated professional with a solid understanding of Manufacturing Test Engineering. As a Photonic Test Engineer, you will develop automated manufacturing test solutions and provide technical support to our manufacturing partners. You will be a part of an international test development team, embedded in a worldwide Optical Research and Development organization. 

Advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.

Nokia is a global leader in connectivity for the AI era. With expertise across fixed, mobile and transport networks, powered by the innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, we're advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world. 

Learn more about life at Nokia.


Our recruitment process

We act inclusively and respect the uniqueness of people. Our employment decisions are made regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. We are committed to a culture of inclusion built upon our core value of respect.

If you're interested in this role but don't meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich our teams, and you may be just the right candidate for this or another opportunity.

The length of the recruitment process may vary depending on the specific role's requirements. We strive to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for all candidates. Discover more about the recruitment process at Nokia. 

Some of our benefits in US:
  • Corporate Retirement Savings Plan
  • Health and dental benefits
  • Short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • Life insurance, and AD&D - Company paid 2x base pay
  • Optional or Supplemental life and AD&D insurance (Employee/Spouse/Child)
  • Paid time off for holidays and Vacation
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Plan
  • Adoption assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program/Work Life Resource Program

The above benefits exclude students.


Disclaimer for US/Canada

Nokia Maintains broad annual base salary ranges for its roles in order to account for variations in knowledge, skills, experience and market conditions, and with consideration to internal peer equity. Check the salary ranges in the job info section for this role.

All North America job posts will post for a minimum of 7 calendar days and up to 180 days or until candidate/s identified.

You have:

  • BS or MS degree in a relevant field (Electrical, Electronics, Optics, RF) or equivalent work experience.
  • Hands-on experience with Optical test and measurement instruments: OSA (optical spectrum analyzers), TLS (tunable laser sources), EDFAs, wavelength meters, power meters.
  • 3+ years experience in Functional Test SW development for photonic, optical, electronics and electrical components/modules. Python preferred.

It would be nice if you also had:

  • Hands-on experience with RF test and measurement instruments: Power Meters, Spectrum Analysers, Signal Generators, VNA.
  • Debug and failure root cause analysis skills. Data Analysis: measurement data review to extract parameters and performance metrics. 
  • Willingness to periodically travel (domestic and international, less than 15%). Understanding of Coherent optical transmission desirable.
  • Development of fully automated production-level test solutions for optical components, modules and assemblies used in high speed optical network equipment
  • Develop FT (Functional Test) SW to test functionality and quality of PIC (Photonic Integrated Circuit)
  • Monitor production data, diagnose process variations, troubleshoot test stations, perform GRR
  • Provide technical support to manufacturing partners. Assist with product failure analysis and troubleshooting
  • Review and contribute to technical documentation (schematics, test specifications, test set layout, product testability)
  • Support the adaptation of the test station from the R&D phase into high-volume manufacturing test platforms
  • Interface with product development teams (software, hardware, firmware, Optical) and worldwide EMS partners

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