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Photonics Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

QCi

PIC Test Engineer- Tempe

Tempe, AZ · On-site

D. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Photonics, or a related field. * At least 3 years of hands-on experience testing photonic integrated circuits involving fiber optics and/or free-space ...

QCi

PIC Test Engineer- Tempe

Arizona, LA · On-site +1

D. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Photonics, or a related field. * At least 3 years of hands-on experience testing photonic integrated circuits involving fiber optics and/or free-space ...

QCi

Equipment Technician

Arizona, LA · On-site

Senior Engineer, Chips About Us Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) (Nasdaq: QUBT) is an innovative, integrated photonics company that provides accessible and affordable quantum machines to the world today.

QCi

Equipment Technician

Tempe, AZ · On-site

Senior Engineer, Chips About Us Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) (Nasdaq: QUBT) is an innovative, integrated photonics company that provides accessible and affordable quantum machines to the world today.

Solestial, Inc.

Laser Process Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

As our Laser Process Engineer, you'll support the development, optimization, and scaling of laser ... Hands-on experience with lasers, optics, photonics, or laser-based materials processing through ...

Airbus Ventures

Laser Process Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

As our Laser Process Engineer, you'll support the development, optimization, and scaling of laser ... Hands-on experience with lasers, optics, photonics, or laser-based materials processing through ...

Solestial, Inc.

Laser Process Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

As our Laser Process Engineer , you'll support the development, optimization, and scaling of laser ... Hands-on experience with lasers, optics, photonics, or laser-based materials processing through ...

QCi

Senior Industrial Engineer-Automation

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$41 - $56/hr

QUBT) is an innovative, integrated photonics company that provides accessible and affordable ... Apply industrial engineering methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and simulation modeling to ...

QCi

Senior Industrial Engineer-Automation

Arizona, LA · On-site

$41 - $56/hr

QUBT) is an innovative, integrated photonics company that provides accessible and affordable ... Apply industrial engineering methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and simulation modeling to ...

Arizona State University

Process Engineer Senior

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

DOE The Advanced Electronics and Photonics Core Facility seeks a qualified candidate for a principal process engineering position. The candidate will mainly be focused on a key component of a fanout ...

TSMC

Photomask Process/Equipment Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Photonics, optics or image process related degree * Python programming capability to develop and boost project study * Shift Expectations: Scheduled weekdays /night shifts and weekend on-duty ...

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Photonics Engineer information

See Arizona salary details

$41K

$99.1K

$161.7K

How much do photonics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for photonics engineer in Arizona is $99,140.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,800.00 and $123,500.00 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.
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Photonics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photonics Engineer job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,140 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

PIC Test Engineer- Tempe

QCi

Tempe, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position Description
This is a fully onsite opportunity based in Tempe, Arizona. The PIC Test Engineer will support the characterization and evaluation of photonic integrated circuits in a fabrication environment and will work closely with design and manufacturing teams to analyze device performance, improve test methods, and help strengthen foundry capabilities. This role is well suited for someone who brings hands-on experience testing photonic devices and enjoys working at the intersection of engineering development, measurement, and manufacturing.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform optical and electrical characterization of fabricated photonic integrated circuits and evaluate results against expected performance targets.
  • Analyze test data to identify opportunities for design, process, or test improvements.
  • Develop, refine, and support automated test procedures where appropriate to improve repeatability and throughput.
  • Work with optical and electrical characterization tools such as laser swept systems, optical spectrum analyzers, vector network analyzers, lightwave component analyzers, interferometry, and related equipment.
  • Collaborate with fabrication and design teams to review device behavior, assess fabrication robustness, and support iteration planning for future runs.
  • Contribute to yield understanding, defect analysis, and overall test methodology improvement.
  • Support efforts related to automated measurement, remote instrument control, and data-driven test workflows.

Required Skills and Experience
  • Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Photonics, or a related field.
  • At least 3 years of hands-on experience testing photonic integrated circuits involving fiber optics and/or free-space optics.
  • At least 1 year of experience with high-speed electro-optic modulator characterization using tools such as VNA or LCA.
  • Programming ability in Python, MATLAB, or similar tools for data analysis and automation.
  • Strong knowledge of waveguide theory, coupling mechanisms, and electrical and photonic device physics.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively across technical teams.

Qualifications
  • Experience with quantum or nonlinear photonic systems or similar applications.
  • Experience testing packaged hybrid photonic/electronic devices.
  • Experience with yield estimation, defect analysis, or failure analysis.
  • Experience with automated test systems or lab equipment remote control.
  • Exposure to 5S, Six Sigma, or similar process-improvement methodologies.

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