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Photonics Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

black.ai

Silicon Photonics Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$100 - $150/hr

PhD or equivalent in Electrical Engineering or Physics. * Experience: 5 years of relevant work or academic research experience in integrated photonics. * Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: * Strong ...

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 ...

NY CREATES

Manager of Photonics Development

Albany, NY · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Position Summary, Manager of Photonics Development This posting is to hire an experienced ... S. degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent ...

NY CREATES

Manager of Photonics Development

Albany, NY · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Position Summary, Manager of Photonics Development This posting is to hire an experienced ... S. degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent ...

Thorlabs

Photonics Engineer II

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$110 - $125/hr

The Photonics Engineer II is responsible for driving innovation in applications and systems ... Education * BS in an optics or physics‑related engineering field. * MS or PhD in optics or ...

Thorlabs

Photonics Engineer II

Lafayette, LA · On-site

$110 - $125/hr

The Photonics Engineer II is responsible for driving innovation in applications and systems ... Education * BS in an optics or physics‑related engineering field. * MS or PhD in optics or ...

PsiQuantum

Silicon Photonics Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

PhD or equivalent in Electrical Engineering or Physics. * Experience: * 5 years of relevant work or academic research experience in integrated photonics. * Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: * Strong ...

PsiQuantum

Silicon Photonics Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

PhD or equivalent in Electrical Engineering or Physics. * Experience: * 5 years of relevant work or academic research experience in integrated photonics. * Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: * Strong ...

Vytran LLC

Photonics Engineer II

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$110 - $125/hr

The Photonics Engineer II is responsible for driving innovation in applications and systems ... Education * BS in an optics or physics‑related engineering field. * MS or PhD in optics or ...

PsiQuantum

Silicon Photonics Engineer

Palo Alto, CA

PhD or equivalent in Electrical Engineering or Physics. * Experience: * 5 years of relevant work or academic research experience in integrated photonics. * Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: * Strong ...

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Photonics Engineering information

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$35K

$93K

$173K

How much do photonics engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for photonics engineering in the United States is $92,956.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $114,000.00 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.
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What states have the most Photonics Engineering jobs?

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Photonics Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photonics Engineering job openings in the United States 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 $92,956 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Sales Director - Optics and Photonics

MLOPTIC CORP

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Sales Director, Optics & Photonics to drive strategic revenue growth and expand our presence across the Bay Area's highly innovative technology ecosystem. This role will focus on developing key customer relationships, identifying new market opportunities, and positioning our company as a trusted partner for advanced optical components, precision manufacturing solutions, and photonic systems.


The ideal candidate combines deep industry expertise with a consultative sales approach and a proven track record of closing complex, high-value technical opportunities.

Location

San Francisco Bay Area (Hybrid)


Target Markets

This role will actively engage customers across a range of optics and photonics-driven industries, including:

  • Semiconductor manufacturing and equipment suppliers
  • LiDAR and automotive sensing technologies
  • Augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) companies
  • Biomedical imaging and life science instrumentation
  • Precision manufacturing and industrial automation
  • Emerging technologies, including quantum computing and integrated photonics


Key Responsibilities

  • Drive revenue growth through expansion of strategic Tier 1 accounts.
  • Identify and develop new business opportunities within optics and photonics markets.
  • Build and maintain a robust sales pipeline, utilizing data-driven forecasting and reporting.
  • Lead technical solution-selling efforts in collaboration with engineering and applications teams.
  • Align customer requirements with product development and R&D initiatives.
  • Negotiate pricing, proposals, contracts, and long-term supply agreements.
  • Monitor competitive activity, industry developments, and emerging technologies.
  • Develop trusted relationships with executive and technical decision-makers.
  • Mentor and support regional sales representatives and application engineers.


Required Qualifications

  • 10+ years of successful sales experience in optics, photonics, semiconductor equipment, precision manufacturing, or related technical industries.
  • Strong understanding of optical components, photonic systems, and related technologies.
  • Demonstrated success closing multi-million-dollar technical sales opportunities.
  • Experience selling into Bay Area technology and manufacturing markets.
  • Ability to understand and discuss optical designs, engineering drawings, and system-level requirements.
  • Excellent executive-level communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Established network within the Bay Area optics, photonics, or semiconductor industries.
  • Experience working with OEM and ODM manufacturing environments.
  • Bachelor's or advanced degree in Physics, Optics, Photonics, Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Familiarity with leading technology organizations such as ASML, Lam Research, NVIDIA, Apple, and other advanced manufacturing or photonics-focused companies.


Success Measures

Success in this role will be evaluated through:

  • Achievement of annual revenue and growth objectives
  • Expansion of strategic customer accounts
  • Sales pipeline health and forecast accuracy
  • Customer satisfaction, retention, and long-term partnership development
  • Contributions to product roadmap alignment and market strategy


Work Environment

  • Hybrid position based in the San Francisco Bay Area.
  • Frequent customer visits throughout San Jose, Sunnyvale, Fremont, Santa Clara, and surrounding technology hubs.
  • Occasional domestic and international travel.


Salary Range

Base Salary: $150,000 - $190,000 annually.
Incentive Compensation: This position participates in a performance-based commission plan designed to reward achievement of sales goals and business growth objectives.
Total Compensation Opportunity: In addition to base salary, this role offers significant variable earnings potential through the commission plan, with substantial upside for high-performing individuals.