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Photonics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aeva, Inc.

Photonics Module Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$164K - $222K/yr

As a Photonics Module Engineer you will be partnering with cross functional teams to deliver photonics based modules and FMCW lidar systems to the market. You will engage with the internal teams to ...

Amat

Photonics Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$138K - $190K/yr

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting ...

Aeva, Inc.

Photonics Module Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$164K - $222K/yr

As a Photonics Module Engineer you will be partnering with cross functional teams to deliver photonics based modules and FMCW lidar systems to the market. You will engage with the internal teams to ...

Aeva, Inc.

Photonics Module Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$164K - $222K/yr

As a Photonics Module Engineer you will be partnering with cross functional teams to deliver photonics based modules and FMCW lidar systems to the market. You will engage with the internal teams to ...

Thorlabs

Photonics Engineer II

Lafayette, CO

$110K/yr

The Photonics Engineer II is responsible for driving innovation in applications and systems development for photonics products, with a focus on high-performance optical cavities and locking ...

PsiQuantum

Senior High-Speed Photonics Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

The Senior Active Photonics Engineer will collaborate closely with teams across PsiQuantum-including electronics, manufacturing, test, packaging, and system validation-to achieve these goals. A ...

Ayo Semiconductor

Photonics Design Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

We are seeking a photonics design engineer to serve as a core team member who will be among the first employees of the company. The engineer will expand Ayo's component library in Ayo's custom InP ...

Thorlabs

Photonics Engineer II

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$110K/yr

The Photonics Engineer II is responsible for driving innovation in applications and systems development for photonics products, with a focus on high-performance optical cavities and locking ...

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Photonics Engineer information

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$44K

$106.4K

$173.5K

How much do photonics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for photonics engineer in the United States is $106,386.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $132,500.00 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and certain electrical or systems engineering roles can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a track record of significant project management or innovation.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or advanced certifications.

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.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Photonics engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in optical systems, and working in high-demand industries such as defense, telecommunications, or aerospace. Senior roles often require specialized knowledge, certifications, and a strong background in optics, laser technology, and related tools.

What does a photonic engineer do?

A photonic engineer designs, develops, and tests devices and systems that use light, such as lasers, optical fibers, and sensors. They work with optics, photonics components, and related technologies, often utilizing tools like CAD software and laboratory equipment, and may require knowledge of physics and electrical engineering. Their work supports telecommunications, medical devices, and imaging systems.
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Photonics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photonics Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,386 per year, or $51.1 per hour.
Photonics Engineer

Photonics Engineer

II-VI Aerospace & Defense

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description


Primary Duties & Responsibilities
  • Device Design & Simulation
    • Design and model backside-emitting VCSEL structures optimized for 1060 nm emission.
    • Develop and simulate photonic crystal cavity structures to enhance light-graphene interaction.
    • Optimize device parameters for >100 GHz 3 dB bandwidth, <3 V modulation bias, and >3 dB extinction ratio.
  • Graphene Integration
    • Collaborate with Graphenea on graphene deposition and doping strategies.
    • Evaluate doping approaches (boron and molecular adsorbate) for Fermi level tuning and resistance control.
    • Define gate oxide materials and thicknesses to minimize RC time constants in device performance.
  • Fabrication Coordination
    • Work with Coherent's Sherman facility to coordinate deposition, patterning, and etching processes.
    • Oversee e-beam lithography (EBL) and reactive ion etching (RIE) for photonic crystal patterning.
    • Integrate ITO contacts and graphene layers for electrical backgating.
  • Testing & Characterization
    • Perform electrical efficiency and high-speed modulation testing of graphene-based VCSELs.
    • Conduct optical reflection and modulation experiments using spectrometers, beamsplitters, and photodiodes.
    • Collaborate with Coherent teams in Fremont and Stanford University for advanced characterization.
  • Collaboration & Documentation
    • Work cross-functionally with materials scientists, process engineers, and external partners.
    • Maintain detailed experiment logs, test reports, and contribute to patent filings and publications.

Education & Experience
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Materials Science, or related field.
  • 3+ years of experience in VCSEL, photonics, or optoelectronic device R&D.
  • Hands-on experience with nanofabrication (EBL, RIE, PVD/ALD/CVD).
  • Proficiency with optical and electrical modeling tools (Lumerical, COMSOL, or equivalent).
  • Experience with high-speed (GHz+) optoelectronic testing.
  • Experience working with 2D materials (e.g., graphene) in optoelectronic applications.

Skills
  • Knowledge of graphene doping and gate-tunable devices.
  • Experience in cross-site collaboration and vendor management (international).
  • Familiarity with backside-emitting VCSEL architectures and photonic crystal design.
  • Strong interpersonal, teaming, and problem-solving skills.
  • Work effectively with other members of Coherent Corp. xxxxx.

Working Conditions
  • Onsite or hybrid work
  • Regular collaboration with engineers and scientist in a fast-paced R&D setting, with both independent and team-based tasks

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to perform fine manual tasks under a microscope and handle delicate semiconductor components with precision.
  • Capability to stand or sit for extended periods while working in a lab or cleanroom environment.

Safety Requirements
All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.
Quality and Environmental Responsibilities
Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.
Culture Commitment
Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:
Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust
Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome
Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone
Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.
About Us
Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.

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