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Photonics Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

IPG Photonics is revolutionizing the laser industry as the pioneering developer and leading producer of fiber lasers and amplifiers. Headquartered in Marlborough, MA, IPG has over 4,800 employees in ...

... Engineering. We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled researcher with a strong background in semiconductor plasmonics, energy harvesting devices, photonics and computational electromagnetics.

Assembly Technician I

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

About Jenoptik With its Strategic Business Unit (SBU) Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing, Jenoptik is a global OEM and machine supplier of solutions powered by photonics. Our engineering ...

About Jenoptik With its Strategic Business Unit (SBU) Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing, Jenoptik is a global OEM and machine supplier of solutions powered by photonics. Our engineering ...

About Jenoptik With its Strategic Business Unit (SBU) Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing, Jenoptik is a global OEM and machine supplier of solutions powered by photonics. Our engineering ...

About Jenoptik With its Strategic Business Unit (SBU) Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing, Jenoptik is a global OEM and machine supplier of solutions powered by photonics. Our engineering ...

About Jenoptik With its Strategic Business Unit (SBU) Semiconductor & Advanced Manufacturing, Jenoptik is a global OEM and machine supplier of solutions powered by photonics. Our engineering ...

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Showing results 1-20

Photonics Engineer information

See Alabama salary details

$39.9K

$96.4K

$157.3K

How much do photonics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for photonics engineer in Alabama is $96,427.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,900.00 and $120,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a photonics engineer?

As a photonics engineer, you work with photo energy and technology to create new products and improve existing goods, such as barcode scanners, lasers, and fiber optics. Research and development are your primary responsibilities, but your other job duties include creating design plans for product innovations, testing and revising prototypes, determining solutions for existing issues, and seeking cost-effective alternatives for current technology. You need strong scientific and mathematical reasoning along with computer skills to perform well as a photonics engineer.

What does a photonics engineer do?

A Photonics Engineer designs, develops, and tests devices and systems that use light (photons), such as lasers, fiber optics, and imaging systems. They work on applications in telecommunications, medical devices, manufacturing, and defense. Their responsibilities may include researching new photonic materials, improving optical communication systems, and creating innovative technologies that use light for sensing or processing information. Photonics engineers often collaborate with other engineers and scientists to bring advanced optical solutions to a wide range of industries.

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

To thrive as a Photonics Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, optics, and mathematics, often supported by a degree in photonics, electrical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or COMSOL), laser systems, and laboratory instrumentation, as well as relevant certifications, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing innovative photonic devices and systems that meet complex technical requirements in industries like telecommunications, healthcare, and manufacturing.

What are some typical collaborative projects a photonics engineer might work on within a multidisciplinary team?

Photonics Engineers often collaborate closely with electrical engineers, software developers, and materials scientists on projects such as designing optical communication systems, developing laser-based medical devices, or optimizing imaging technologies. These projects require integrating photonic components with electronic circuitry and software algorithms, making teamwork and cross-disciplinary communication essential. Regular meetings, prototype testing, and troubleshooting sessions are common, providing opportunities to learn from experts in related fields while ensuring that photonic solutions meet broader system requirements.

What is the difference between Photonics Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectPhotonics EngineerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; certifications in photonics are a plusBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, tech companies focusing on laser, fiber optics, and photonic devicesResearch labs, manufacturing, telecommunications, and defense sectors working with optical systems
Employer & Industry UsageCompanies developing laser systems, fiber optics, photonic sensors, and integrated photonic circuitsOrganizations involved in optical communication, imaging systems, and optical component design

Photonics Engineers and Optical Engineers share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often collaborating on optical systems. However, Photonics Engineers typically focus more on the development and application of photonic devices and systems, while Optical Engineers may concentrate more on optical system design and integration. Both roles are vital in industries like telecommunications, defense, and research.

Are photonics engineers in demand?

Photonics engineers are in high demand due to the growing use of optical communication, laser systems, and photonic devices in industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. The field offers strong job prospects, especially for those with skills in optical design, fiber optics, and relevant certifications, as employment opportunities continue to expand with technological advancements.

How much does a photonics engineer make?

Photonics engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in high-tech industries or research environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Photonics Engineer jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Photonics Engineer jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Photonics Engineer jobs in Alabama?

For Photonics Engineer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Photonics Engineer jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Photonics Engineer jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Photonics Engineer jobs in AL?

For Photonics Engineer jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Photonics Engineer job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,427 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Infrared Sensors Engineer

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site

Aviation & Missile Solutions
Engineering Professional Servicesย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$120 - $150/hr

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Infrared Sensors Engineer

Aviation & Missile Solutions, LLC. (AMS) is seeking a Senior Infrared Sensors engineer. This engineer will focus on the evaluation, development, and integration of advanced technologies related to infrared sensing systems. This includes but is not limited to: optics and related effects, CMOS sensors, microbolometers, advanced imaging sensors and technologies, and associated firmware, software, and related systems aspects. The candidate will research and investigate advanced technology, conduct feasibility studies, perform modeling and simulation tasks to assess possible system performance, and provide technical advice and expertise. Candidate may be called on to lead a broad technical team as the program develops.

Location
  • Position is full-time in the office.
Experience and Skills

Basic Qualifications:

  • The candidate must have experience in the development of physics-based models for infrared band sensors.
  • The candidate must have at least 12 years highly relevant professional experience.
  • Expert level knowledge and experience with infrared sensing technology.
  • Experience with sensor systems integration
  • Experience with sensor data processing algorithms and techniques
  • Have a minimum of 12 years combined Government/DoD experience in performing the essential duties listed above
  • Experience managing technical teams of scientists and engineers.

Preferred Skills/Abilities:

  • 15+ years of industry experience post degree is preferred (12 is required)
  • Applicable degrees in physics, electrical engineering, optical science, or remote sensing, with experience or coursework relevant to infrared sensing is a plus
  • Experience with Matlab
  • Experience in coding for physics based modeling and simulation

Required Education and Experience:

  • Candidate must possess a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optical Science, or Remote Sensing from an ABET- accredited university.
  • A minimum of 12 years experience in an applicable field.

Physical Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.
  • Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization's facilities.

Security Requirements:

  • Citizenship: Candidate must be a US only citizen.
  • Clearance level: possess (and be able to maintain) a Final SECRET Clearance or meet the eligibility to obtain (and maintain) a Final SECRET Clearance.

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