ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Photonics Engineering Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPhotonics Engineering JobsPhotonics Engineering Jobs in Washington

Photonics Engineering information

See Washington salary details

$39.6K

$105.3K

$195.9K

How much do photonics engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for photonics engineering in Washington is $105,282.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $129,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are popular job titles related to Photonics Engineering jobs in Washington?

For Photonics Engineering jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Photonics Engineering jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Photonics Engineering job openings:

Photonics Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photonics Engineering job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,282 per year, or $50.6 per hour.

Lead Photonics & Nanotechnology Engineer

Devyantram

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$150 - $170/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Lead Photonics & Nanotechnology Engineer

Devyantram is building a unified platform of bionic robots, from nanoscale to humanoid, powered by a bionic brain system that fuses biotechnology, nanotechnology, and AI to tackle global challenges in climate, medicine, and defense.

Role Summary

You will lead the design and development of Devyantram's nano/microscale intelligence hardware, spanning micro and nano-robotic systems and the photonic and MEMS/NEMS subsystems that support the CEREBRION bionic brain platform. You are responsible for architecting intelligence-substrate hardware at the micro and nano scale, not just building individual components.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design and simulate photonic circuits, waveguides, resonators, and interferometers.
  • Develop optical interconnects and signal-routing subsystems.
  • Work on optical memory and optical compute elements.
  • Target high-bandwidth sensing, low-latency communication, and energy-efficient computation.
  • Own photonics fabrication, testing, and characterization.
  • Design MEMS/NEMS devices for sensing and signal transduction, actuation, and interfacing.
  • Lead nano and microfabrication workflows from cleanroom through foundry.
  • Define packaging, integration, and scaling strategy.
Micro/Nano-Robotic Systems
  • Architect distributed micro and nano-robotic platforms and their coordination strategies.
  • Enable cooperative, hierarchical, and adaptive behaviors across distributed units.
Compute Hardware
  • Contribute to unconventional, brain-inspired compute hardware spanning photonic and electromechanical approaches.
  • Translate cognitive and AI requirements into physical micro and nano implementations.
  • Co-design with the bioengineering, mechatronics, and controls teams.
IP & Technical Leadership
  • Generate foundational IP across photonics, MEMS/NEMS, and micro/nano-robotics.
  • Lead invention disclosures and support patent strategy with counsel.
  • Define the long‑term nanoscale‑intelligence hardware roadmap.
  • Mentor junior researchers and engineers.
Required Qualifications
  • MS or PhD in Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
  • 8+ years of demonstrated expertise in photonics engineering and micro/nanoengineering.
  • Strong MEMS/NEMS and nanofabrication experience.
  • Proven ability to bridge theory, fabrication, and system-level integration.
Strongly Preferred
  • Optical or holographic computing.
  • Unconventional or non‑von‑Neumann computing.
  • Nanorobotics or microrobotics.
  • Brain‑machine interfaces or neural probes.
  • Advanced research lab or deep‑tech startup experience.
A Successful Candidate Will Be Measured By
  • Functionality and performance of the nanoscale compute hardware.
  • Successful design and fabrication of photonics and MEMS/NEMS systems.
  • Functional autonomy and scalability of micro and nano‑robotic platforms.
  • Reliability of hardware integration across subsystems.
  • Strength, novelty, and defensibility of generated core IP.

The pay offered for this position may vary based on several individual factors, including job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package may also include additional components/benefits depending on the specific role. This information will be shared if an employment offer is extended.

The pay range for this role is: 150,000 - 170,000 USD per year (Ashburn, VA)

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply