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Photonics Engineering 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 ...

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering Technology, Photonics, or a related field. Equivalent combination of relevant work experience and technical ...

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 ...

Sr. Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. • 7+ years of experience in optical ... At Ocean We Measure What Matters, and our Mission is to design precise photonics systems to solve ...

Sr. Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. • 7+ years of experience in optical ... At Ocean We Measure What Matters, and our Mission is to design precise photonics systems to solve ...

Sr. Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. • 7+ years of experience in optical ... At Ocean We Measure What Matters, and our Mission is to design precise photonics systems to solve ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Photonics Engineering information

What is photonics engineering?

Photonics engineering is a branch of engineering focused on the study and application of light (photons). It involves designing and developing systems and devices that use light, such as lasers, fiber optics, and imaging systems. Photonics engineers work in various industries, including telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, and defense, to create technologies for communication, sensing, and information processing. The field combines principles from physics, electrical engineering, and materials science to solve complex problems involving light.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a photonics engineer?

To thrive as a Photonics Engineer, you need a solid background in optics, physics, and electrical engineering, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Experience with simulation software (such as Zemax or COMSOL), proficiency in optical design, and familiarity with laboratory equipment are highly valuable, along with relevant certifications. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills help individuals excel in complex, collaborative environments. These competencies ensure the successful design, development, and integration of photonic systems in industries like telecommunications, healthcare, and manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by photonics engineers when integrating new technologies into existing systems?

Photonics Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating cutting-edge optical components into established systems, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy hardware and maintaining signal integrity. Addressing issues like minimizing optical losses, managing thermal effects, and aligning precise optical pathways requires careful planning and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams. Additionally, staying current with rapid advancements in materials and fabrication techniques is essential to ensure the best solutions are implemented. These challenges foster a dynamic work environment that encourages continuous learning and innovation.

What is the difference between Photonics Engineering vs Optical Engineering?

AspectPhotonics EngineeringOptical Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Photonics, Optical, or Electrical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Optical, Electrical, or Physics Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, telecommunications, defenseResearch labs, manufacturing, imaging, laser systems
Industry UsageDeveloping photonic devices, lasers, fiber opticsDesigning optical systems, lenses, imaging devices

Photonics Engineering focuses on the development of photonic devices and systems, including lasers and fiber optics, often requiring specialized knowledge in light manipulation. Optical Engineering emphasizes designing and improving optical systems like lenses and imaging devices. While overlapping, Photonics Engineering is more hardware and device-oriented, whereas Optical Engineering centers on system design and application.

Are photonics engineers in demand?

Photonics engineers are in high demand due to advancements in optical communication, laser technology, and imaging systems. They often work in industries such as telecommunications, defense, and healthcare, with strong growth prospects driven by technological innovation and increasing reliance on optical systems.

How much do photonics engineers 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 in optical systems or laser technology can earn higher salaries. Certifications and advanced degrees can also influence earning potential.

What do photonics engineers do?

Photonics engineers design, develop, and test optical systems and devices that use light, such as lasers, fiber optics, and sensors. They work with principles of optics and electromagnetism, often utilizing tools like CAD software and laboratory equipment, and may require knowledge of semiconductor fabrication and optical communication technologies.

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

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

What cities in Florida are hiring for Photonics Engineering jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Photonics Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Photonics Engineering job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Principal Engineer Test

Northrop Grumman

Apopka, FL • On-site

$89K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 370 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 546 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time Description 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.


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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