ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Photonics Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPhotonics Engineering Jobs

Photonics Engineering information

See salary details

$35K

$93K

$173K

How much do photonics engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 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 engineers make $500,000?

In the field of photonics engineering, senior-level professionals with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in areas like laser systems or optical communications can reach salaries around $500,000, especially in high-cost-of-living regions or within large corporations. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives. Achieving this level typically requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership roles, and years of industry experience.

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.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Photonics engineers with extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership roles in research, development, or management can earn salaries around $300,000 annually. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives, especially in high-tech industries or large corporations. Achieving this level typically requires specialized knowledge in optics, laser systems, and related tools, along with a strong educational background and industry experience.

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, and why are they important?

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 does a photonics engineer do?

A photonics engineer designs, develops, and tests optical systems and devices that use light, such as lasers, fiber optics, and sensors. They work with principles of optics and electromagnetism, often using simulation software and precision measurement tools, and may require knowledge of manufacturing processes and certifications in optics or photonics. Their work is essential in telecommunications, medical devices, and defense industries.

How much do photonic engineers make?

Photonic 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 optics and laser systems can earn higher salaries, especially in research or industry roles.
More about Photonics Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Photonics Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Photonics Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Photonics Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Photonics Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Photonics Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Photonics Engineering jobs are:
Photonics Engineering jobs near you
Silicon Photonics Design Engineer - Biophotonics

Silicon Photonics Design Engineer - Biophotonics

Apple

Cupertino, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 661 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

Imagine what you could do here. At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, smart people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our commitment to leave the world better than we found it. Join us to help deliver the next groundbreaking Apple product! Do you love working on challenges that no one has solved yet? As a member of our dynamic group, you will have the unique and rewarding opportunity to craft upcoming products that will delight and inspire millions of Apple's customers every single day!
Apple is looking for a Photonics Design Engineer to work on the development of novel integrated photonic devices that will enable breakthrough sensing applications in Apple products. You will work within an optical science team and collaborate with a multi-disciplinary group to demonstrate new photonic components and sensor concepts. The candidate will be responsible for design, simulation, and characterization of silicon photonic components to enable the next generation of photonic integrated circuits.
Bachelor's degree in Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering or equivalent fieldsExperience with simulation and modeling of photonic components
3+ years of relevant industry experienceMaster's or PhD degree in Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering or equivalent fieldsDeep understanding of optoelectronics, photonics, and semiconductor devicesExtensive design and modeling experiences of passive and active components on SOI platformsExperience in designing MUX/DeMUX componentsExperience in circuit simulation, high order mode mitigation or polarization managementGood understanding of optical measurement techniques and hands-on experience in device characterizationStrong programming skills and proficiency in statistical data analysis in Python, Matlab, JMP or similar.

What Apple employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apple logo

About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

View All Apple Jobs

Apply