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Photonics Engineering Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Qunett

Quantum Photonics Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

Quantum Photonics Engineer About Qunett Qunett is developing the foundational hardware layer for ... PhD in Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or related field (or MS with equivalent experience)

Qunett

Quantum Photonics Engineer

Boston, MA

Quantum Photonics Engineer About Qunett Qunett is developing the foundational hardware layer for ... PhD in Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or related field (or MS with equivalent experience)

Qunett

Quantum Photonics Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

Quantum Photonics Engineer About Qunett Qunett is developing the foundational hardware layer for ... PhD in Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or related field (or MS with equivalent experience)

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Photonics Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$128K - $208K/yr

Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field, or 4+ years of experience ... photonics testing, or photonic systems control. * Proven technical impact, evidenced by ...

Ayo Semiconductor

Photonics Design Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

PhD in optics, electrical engineering, physics or related field with a focus on integrated photonics * Experience designing, simulating, and testing integrated photonic devices * Experience using ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Photonics Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$128K - $208K/yr

Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field, or 4+ years of experience ... photonics testing, or photonic systems control. * Proven technical impact, evidenced by ...

Ayo Semiconductor

Photonics Design Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

PhD in optics, electrical engineering, physics or related field with a focus on integrated photonics * Experience designing, simulating, and testing integrated photonic devices * Experience using ...

Teradyne

Hardware Engineer

Reading, MA · On-site

$175K - $280K/yr

As a member of the Silicon Photonics Engineering Staff, you will be a key player in the definition, implementation, and validation of complex automated test equipment that interfaces optical ports of ...

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Photonics Engineering information

See Boston, MA salary details

$38K

$101K

$187.9K

How much do photonics engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for photonics engineering in Boston, MA is $100,988.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,200.00 and $123,800.00 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 Boston, MA?

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

What job categories do people searching Photonics Engineering jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Photonics Engineering jobs in Boston, MA are:

Photonics Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photonics Engineering job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,988 per year, or $48.6 per hour.

Quantum Photonics Engineer

Qunett

Boston, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design, assemble, and characterize low-noise, phase-coherent quantum frequency conversion modules for qubit exchange between telecom and visible wavelengths.

  • Work with optical setups including free-space and fiber coupling, beam shaping, polarization management, and interferometers to support photonics development.

  • Contribute to building entangled photon sources and quantum frequency conversion systems, focusing on nonlinear optics and quantum frequency conversion.

Job description

Quantum Photonics Engineer

About Qunett

Qunett is developing the foundational hardware layer for quantum networking. Our mission is to build scalable, field-deployable quantum networks through solid-state quantum memory and networking technologies designed to operate beyond the laboratory and integrate directly with real-world infrastructure. At Qunett, physicists and engineers work hands-on with diamond-based quantum devices, photonics, cryogenic systems, and control electronics to translate fundamental quantum capabilities into practical networked hardware. This is a ground-floor opportunity to help shape how quantum systems communicate, scale, and drive the next generation of secure communication, distributed sensing, and quantum computing. As an early-stage company actively building out its quantum memory and photonics teams, Qunett seeks physicists and engineers who bring technical range, adaptability, and readiness to contribute across disciplines as the technology and team evolve.

Work Location

This is a full-time, onsite position based in Boston, MA.

About the role

Qunett is seeking a Photonics Engineer to contribute to the photonics team building entangled photon sources and quantum frequency conversion systems. This role is highly hands-on, focused on designing, assembling, and characterizing low-noise, phase-coherent, quantum frequency conversion modules for qubit exchange between telecom and visible wavelengths. Efficient methods of bandwidth exchange between broadband photons from SPDC and  narrowband light appropriate for color-center qubits will be essential. Free-space implementation and/or integrated photonics approaches are envisioned. This role will focus on nonlinear optics and quantum frequency conversion within the broader photonics efforts at Qunett.

Required qualifications

  • PhD in Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or related field (or MS with equivalent experience)
  • Hands-on experience with nonlinear optics and/or quantum optics in laboratory settings
  • Extensive experience working with spectroscopic-grade laser systems (alignment, safety, modulation, stabilization fundamentals)
  • Experience building and troubleshooting optical setups: free-space and fiber coupling, ABCD matrix analysis and implementation, beam shaping, polarization management, interferometers, and low-noise detection
  • Exposure to single-photon sources and/or single-photon detectors (e.g., SNSPDs/APDs), timing electronics, and basic coincidence measurements
  • Experience using optical design / engineering tools (e.g., Zemax/OpticStudio or equivalent) to design, tolerance, and iterate optical layouts
  • Familiarity with modern software/AI-assisted tools for coding, optimization, and experiment control (e.g., Python-based analysis and automation)

Preferred qualifications

  • Experience with SPDC-based entangled photon sources (Sagnac or interferometric geometries), biphoton characterization, and/or HOM-type interference measurements
  • Experience with wavelength-division multiplexing concepts (filters, DWDM components), insertion-loss management, and polarization gates
  • Experience with laser spectroscopy in solid-state, atomic, or ion systems
  • Exposure to micro/nanofabrication or photonic device integration
  • Familiarity with quantum networking requirements (entanglement distribution, link budgets, interface constraints)

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Equity participation through stock options for all new hires
  • Flexible time off: unlimited PTO, sick leave, and 11 paid holidays
  • Employee support benefits including EAP, caregiver support, healthcare advocacy, and more