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Photonics Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Principal Engineer Test

Apopka, FL · On-site

$89K - $134K/yr

OR a PhD in Optics/Photonics or a related STEM field with at least 1 year of relevant work ... Experience with engineering development tools such as CAD, Optical Design, with exposure to laser ...

New

Associate, Optical Engineer

Palm Bay, FL · On-site

$110K - $142K/yr

Class work in mathematics, programming, physics, photonics systems/hardware L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and ...

Experience with deeply technical or engineering-driven businesses such as photonics, semiconductors, aerospace, quantum, or advanced manufacturing. * Experience owning ambiguous, cross-functional ...

Experience with deeply technical or engineering-driven businesses such as photonics, semiconductors, aerospace, quantum, or advanced manufacturing. * Experience owning ambiguous, cross-functional ...

Experience with deeply technical or engineering-driven businesses such as photonics, semiconductors, aerospace, quantum, or advanced manufacturing. * Experience owning ambiguous, cross-functional ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$71K - $150K/yr

This is part of our Optical and Photonics Systems Division, we specialize in the design ... Interfacing with design engineers to ensure hardware producibility and develop build strategies.

New

This is part of our Optical and Photonics Systems Division, we specialize in the design ... Interfacing with design engineers to ensure hardware producibility and develop build strategies.

New

This is part of our Optical and Photonics Systems Division, we specialize in the design ... Interfacing with design engineers to ensure hardware producibility and develop build strategies.

New

Showing results 21-40

Photonics Engineer information

See Florida salary details

$32.9K

$79.5K

$129.7K

How much do photonics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for photonics engineer in Florida is $79,501.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,800.00 and $99,000.00 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 Florida?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Florida are hiring for Photonics Engineer jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Photonics Engineer job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Photonics Engineer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,501 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

$89K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. We have a wide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies. Our differentiated battle management and cyber solutions deliver timely, mission-enabling information and provide superior situational awareness and understanding to protect the U.S. and its global allies.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is looking for you to join our team as a Principal Test Engineer based in Apopka, Florida.
We offer great learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented people to help us grow our services and become even better at what we do.
What you will get to do:
  • Design, develop and implement testing methods and optical / mechanical equipment.
  • Plan and arrange the labor, schedules, and equipment required for testing and evaluating standard and special devices.
  • Provide test area with parameters for sample testing and specifies tests to be performed.
  • Compile data and define changes required in testing equipment, testing procedures, manufacturing processes, or new testing requirements.
  • Responsible for testing all customer samples and for special tests that cannot be performed in the test area.
  • Review, interpret, and analyze formal and informal requirements.

The ideal candidate will:
  • Possess a complete understanding and wide application of technical principles, theories, and concepts in Optics/Photonics. General knowledge of other related disciplines.
  • Provide technical solutions to a wide range of complex difficult problems. Solutions are imaginative, thorough, practicable, and consistent with organization objectives.
  • Work under only general direction. Independently determines and develops approach to solutions. Work is reviewed upon completion for adequacy in meeting objectives.

Basic Qualifications for Test Engineer:
  • A bachelor's degree in Optics/Photonics or a related STEM field with a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience; OR a master's degree in Optics/Photonics or a related STEM field with 3 or more years of relevant work experience; OR a PhD in Optics/Photonics or a related STEM field with at least 1 year of relevant work experience.
  • Experience with COTS (common off the shelf) equipment used in laser manufacturing laboratories e.g., laser diodes, energy/pulse width detection, optical devices, and mounts, etc.
  • Experience with optical design software such as Zemax, CodeV, etc.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
  • U.S. Citizenship required.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with engineering development tools such as CAD, Optical Design, with exposure to laser measurement/analysis techniques.
  • Lab experience with VIS, SWIR, MWIR, LWIR camera imaging parameters such as MRC and MRTD.
  • A current DoD Secret Clearance

What We Can Offer You:
Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment that encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.
Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off, and Additional Benefits, including Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!
#MPR
Primary Level Salary Range: $89,400.00 - $134,200.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939