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Photonics Engineering Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Jobtailor

Photonics Engineer

Adelphi, MD · On-site

$100 - $160/hr

Apply novel trends in photonics RF such as wideband receivers and transmitters, oscillators, low‑noise amplifiers, high‑power amplifiers, filters, and photonics computation to EW applications ...

Thorlabs

Photonics Engineer I

Jessup, MD · On-site

$80K/yr

Support sustaining engineering on existing products. Interface with customers to provide technical ... precision photonics measurements and instrumentation Experience building optical assemblies ...

Excelitas Technologies

R&D Manager

Gaithersburg, MD

... photonics and industrial applications. In this role, you will combine deep expertise in plasma physics and microwave engineering with hands-on laboratory work, simulation, and the leadership of a ...

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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 10, 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.

Are photonics engineers in demand?

Photonics engineers are in 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 opportunities for specialization in areas like optical design and manufacturing, with employment prospects expected to remain strong as technology advances. Skills in optics, laser technology, and related tools enhance job prospects in this field.

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.

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, often supplemented by benefits and bonuses.

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 do photonics engineers do?

Photonics engineers design, develop, and test optical systems and devices that use light, such as lasers, fiber optics, and imaging systems. They work with principles of optics, electronics, and materials science, often using simulation tools and requiring knowledge of manufacturing processes. Their work supports telecommunications, medical equipment, and defense technologies.

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 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 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,282 per year, or $50.6 per hour.

Photonics Engineer

Jobtailor

Adelphi, MD • On-site

$100 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities
  • Research adversary warfare systems technology trends and techniques
  • Participate in defining requirements for EW compact payloads
  • Apply knowledge of adversary technologies and notional blue‑force concepts of operations to define requirements for EW compact payloads
  • Derive RF requirements for mixed analog, digital and photonics design and translate into photonics specifications
  • Apply novel trends in photonics RF such as wideband receivers and transmitters, oscillators, low‑noise amplifiers, high‑power amplifiers, filters, and photonics computation to EW applications including receive, process, and transmit
  • Work with multi‑mode (mixed analog/digital/photonics) integrated circuit designers to develop requirements and specifications for fabricated and heterogeneously integrated electronics such as photonics integrated circuits
  • Work with ARL photonics experts and utilize lab equipment to develop physical bench‑level and lab demonstrations of photonics EW applications
  • Work with ARL manufacturing experts to integrate photonics RF into heterogeneous structures consisting of conformal antennas, photonics, analog and digital electronics, bio‑inspired computing and emerging energy storage layers
Requirements
  • Recent graduate of PhD program from an R1 university with specialization in Photonics RF to include receivers, transmitters, mixers, filters, oscillators, and photonics computation
  • Strong communication (both written and verbal) skills
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment
  • US Citizen with ability to obtain a Secret Clearance
  • Completion of Post‑Doc
  • Experience with EW applications
  • Working knowledge of MATLAB or Python
  • Interest in advancing and prioritizing national security technologies
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