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Photonics Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Engineering Technician IV

Middletown, RI

$40K - $80K/yr

Applications may include electronic circuits, photonics and logic systems. * Works from schematics ... Prepares engineering documentation, reports, drawings (sketches/flow charts/diagrams/schematics ...

SAIC

Engineering Technician IV

Middletown, RI

Applications may include electronic circuits, photonics and logic systems. * Works from schematics ... Prepares engineering documentation, reports, drawings (sketches/flow charts/diagrams/schematics ...

Arcfield

Radar Systems Engineer

Middletown, RI · On-site

... and Photonics Masts, EW AN/BLQ-10 and Early Warning Receiver. You will provide Engineering expertise as part of an integrated technical team made up of Rite-Solutions and NUWC engineers. Principal ...

Arcfield

Electrical Engineer II

Middletown, RI · On-site

Responsibilities As an Electrical Engineer II, you will be tasked with assignments requiring ... Testing support, and in-service support of Imaging Systems (Periscopes and Photonics Masts) on US ...

GDIT

Submarine Imaging / RF Technician

Newport, RI

$38.82 - $52.52/hr

Yes ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN V GDIT is looking for highly motivated technicians able to perform Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Repair of Submarine Periscopes and Photonics based imaging systems. Scope ...

Arcfield

Submarine Material Parts Expediter

Middletown, RI · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

... Photonics Masts) on US Navy Submarines. * Expedite material procurement, track parts delivery, and ... Work closely with systems, mechanical, and electrical engineers to validate alternate parts and ...

All JobsPhotonics Engineer JobsPhotonics Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island

Photonics Engineer information

See Rhode Island salary details

$43.1K

$104.2K

$169.9K

How much do photonics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for photonics engineer in Rhode Island is $104,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,400.00 and $129,800.00 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.
More about Photonics Engineer jobs

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

The most popular types of Photonics Engineer jobs in Rhode Island are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photonics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photonics Engineer job openings in Rhode Island 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 $104,185 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Electrical Engineer III (Photonics & Imaging)

Arcfield

Middletown, RI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities
This position involves assisting in the testing, troubleshooting, and repair of Navy Photonics Mast systems. In this role, you will directly contribute to the sustainment of US Navy Submarines and their imaging needs. You will participate in meetings with program leads and technical experts to provide recommendations for fleet mast usage and dispersal. Additionally, you will lead groups of technicians to best allocate effort, provide technical resolution to complex testing challenges, and design custom test equipment to improve the testing and repair process. As a senior engineer on this program, you will have the opportunity to become a key decision-maker in this enterprise.
These duties will require working on-site at NUWCDIVNPT in Newport, RI.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Lead and coordinate teams of technicians to optimize testing schedules, streamline repair workflows, and resolve technical testing challenges.
  • Design and create custom test equipment, electrical schematics, diagrams, and technical requirements for Technical Data Packages (TDP) to improve the testing and repair process.
  • Develop comprehensive test plans, test readiness evaluations, hardware installations, and troubleshooting procedures while effectively communicating the status and progress of repair tasks.
  • Provide direct testing, troubleshooting, repair, and in-service engineering support for Imaging Systems (Periscopes and Photonics Masts) on US Navy vessels.
  • Perform detailed component analysis on a variety of assemblies, sub-assemblies, and RF electronics.
  • Perform advanced diagnostics and isolation of hardware failures involving complex electronics and electrical assemblies in a lab environment.
  • Prototype, debug, and validate hardware designs and test configurations.
  • Perform rigorous technical analysis of hardware systems, subsystems, and military-specification cable designs (including RF, fiber-optic, and copper).
  • Review, analyze, and provide professional feedback on electrical schematics, engineering diagrams, and Technical Data Packages (TDP) developed by other team members or contractors.
  • Perform trade studies comparing military-specification (mil-spec) and Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) materials to identify suitable replacements or upgrades.
  • Modify or develop supporting software/hardware applications using technologies such as C++ (Linux), Java, MATLAB, Python, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, SQL, and Verilog as required.
  • Collaborate closely with mechanical and systems engineers, Navy program managers, Government civilians, OEMs, and sub-contractors to deliver cohesive, fully functional solutions.
  • Conduct and actively participate in cross-discipline design reviews, representing imaging system testing and sustainment interests.
  • Maintain readiness to travel to support off-site installations, certifications, and new platform configurations.

Qualifications
Qualifications:
  • Education & Experience:
    • Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical field with 5-7 years of related experience, OR a Master's Degree with 3-5 years of related experience, OR a PhD with 0-2 years of related experience.
    • Military Experience Substitution: Equivalent, relevant U.S. Navy or military technical electronics experience (e.g., Navy Electronics Technician [ET], Fire Control Technician [FT], or other technical/combat systems ratings with intensive hands-on experience in electronics troubleshooting, testing, and repair) may be substituted for the BS degree requirement on a year-for-year basis (e.g., 10+ years of total relevant technical experience).
  • Technical Skills:
    • Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs (Excel, Word, Visio, PowerPoint, and Outlook).
    • Direct experience with electrical CAD design software such as Altium, OrCAD, and LTSpice.
    • Experience operating and working with lab equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, logic analyzers, and Field Fox Network Analyzers.
    • Strong familiarity with RF test equipment and systems, ideally involving antennas, amplifiers, filters, and signal distribution.
  • Professional Attributes:
    • Exceptional organizational and critical thinking skills, with an unwavering attention to detail.
    • Demonstrated ability to lead technical personnel, allocate efforts, and drive testing tasks to completion.
    • Ability to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing, to all levels of the customer organization.
    • Ability to interpret customer goals, coordinate independently, and work seamlessly within a multi-disciplinary team.
    • Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), meet tight deadlines, and multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
  • Travel & Security:
    • Position may require up to 10% travel.
    • Ability to obtain and maintain an active Secret security clearance.

Additional Skills of Interest (Not Required):
  • Experience with submarine imaging and periscope systems. Special consideration is given to candidates with prior military service on submarines.
  • Experience or working knowledge of US Navy SUBSAFE, Material Control, and Fleet Maintenance programs and policies.
  • Experience with PCB layout, design, and fabrication.
  • Experience with microcontrollers, FPGAs, and embedded systems.
  • General knowledge of mechanical CAD design software such as SolidWorks.

Equal Pay Act
This is the projected compensation range for this position. There are differentiating factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate, including, but not limited to, Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location (For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract Labor categories. In addition, Arcfield invests in its employees beyond just compensation. Arcfield 's benefits offerings include, dependent upon position, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, Short Term and Long-Term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections. Min: $84,362.83 Max: $146,690.59
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and federal government contractor. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment as protected by law.

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