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Photonics Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Collabera Digital

Photonics Engineer III

Redmond, WA · On-site

Learn more at Engineering to the Power of AI™, AAVA™, EngineeringAI, Engineering to Elevate ... Photonics Engineer III Key Responsibilities: * Design and develop complete Photonic Integrated ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Broadcom Inc.

$120 - $192/hr

Senior Silicon Photonics PIC Design Engineer Broadcom is seeking a Senior Silicon Photonics PIC ... Master's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or related field with 6+ years of ...

Agupdate

Manager of Photonics Development

Albany, NY · On-site

$170 - $210/hr

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

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 ...

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How much do photonics engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 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.

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.
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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 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% 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.

Silicon Photonics Design Engineer (RFIC Engineering)

SpaceX

Redmond, WA • On-site

$145K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design, analyze, and simulate optical building blocks such as MZM and Microring modulators, Ge Photodiodes, dWDM filters, waveguides, couplers, dividers, and polarization management circuitry.

  • Evaluate, characterize, and measure electrical and optical building blocks of high-speed optical link solutions, and assist in developing automated test lab equipment for lab measurements.

  • Work with system architects, DSP, electro-optics, and ASIC engineers to partition functions between hardware and software domains, and collaborate with manufacturing engineers on production testing and qualification of PIC circuits and systems.

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
SILICON PHOTONICS DESIGN ENGINEER (RFIC ENGINEERING)
At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system - thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We've only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink's potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink's utility for communities and businesses around the globe.
We are seeking a motivated, proactive, and intellectually curious photonics design engineer who will work alongside world-class cross-disciplinary teams (systems, firmware, architecture, design, validation, product engineering). In this role, you will be developing cutting-edge next-generation PIC for deployment in space and ground infrastructures around the globe. These chips are enabling connectivity in places it has not previously been available, affordable or reliable. Join us to help deliver cutting-edge solutions that will expand the performance and capabilities of the Starlink network.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design, analyze and simulate optical building blocks such as MZM and Microring modulators, Ge Photo diodes, dWDM filters, waveguides, couplers, dividers and polarization management circuitry in different integrated platforms such as silicon photonics and InGaAs/InP
  • Derive specifications for the Photonics IC systems and circuits
  • Design and model package optical interface including edge coupler and grating couplers
  • Familiar with RF, Analog and mixed signal circuits
  • Work with system architects, DSP, electro-optics, and ASIC engineers to partition functions between hardware and software domains
  • Perform IC floor planning and layout
  • Evaluate, characterize and measure electrical and optical building blocks of a high-speed optical link solution
  • Assist in the development of automated test lab equipment for lab measurements
  • Work with manufacturing engineers on production testing and qualification of the PIC circuits and systems
  • Experience using simulation tools such as Lumerical, COMSOL and HFSS

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or computer science
  • 2+ years of photonics or electro-optical integrated circuit design

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree or PhD in electrical engineering, computer engineering (with emphasis on electro-optics IC design), or applied physics
  • Experience using electrical simulation tools such as Spectre, ADS
  • Knowledge of advanced packaging for a co-package optics (CPO) solution
  • Electrical circuit design skills, and experience performing analysis and simulation linear/non-linear circuits such as high bandwidth modulator drivers, TIAs, CTLEs, filters, low noise and power amplifiers.
  • Experience working on wideband circuit designs supporting high speed Serdes links with more than 100Gbps data rate and BW exceeding 10s of GHz
  • Familiarity with high speed SerDes architecture and modulation schemes such as NRZ/ PAM4 and link protocols
  • Familiarity with optical and radio related test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, vector signal analyzers, vector signal generators, high speed oscilloscopes and BERTs
  • Experience characterizing EIC/PIC performance for high speed optical Serdes

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to support critical milestones
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 1: $125,000.00 - $165,000.00
Level 2: $145,000.00 - $200,000.00
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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About SpaceX

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Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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