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Photonics Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... photonics, high-entropy materials, and the fundamentals of ferroelectricity. Responsibilities ... For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.) CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME ...

Unclassified

Pasadena, CA

$20.50 - $25/hr

Our approach: hire a number of outstanding postdoc researchers to focus on long term technology development in the areas of: * Integrated Optics * Nano-photonics * Quantum sensors * Space detectors

Senior Quantum Scientist

Boulder, CO · Hybrid

$126K - $166K/yr

Validate emerging trap technologies, including integrated electronics and photonics for large-scale ... While prior postdoctoral or industry experience is valuable, this role is also open to candidates ...

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Photonics Postdoc information

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$25K

$59K

$83.5K

How much do photonics postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for photonics postdoc in the United States is $59,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Photonics Postdocs?

Photonics Postdocs are researchers who have completed their doctoral studies and are engaged in advanced research in the field of photonics, which involves the study and application of light (photons). They typically work at universities, research institutions, or industry labs to develop new optical technologies, conduct experiments, and publish scientific papers. These positions are often temporary, lasting from one to three years, and are intended to further develop the researcher's expertise and prepare them for permanent academic or industry roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Photonics Postdoc, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Photonics Postdoc, you need an advanced degree (typically a Ph.D.) in physics, electrical engineering, or a related field, with expertise in optics and photonics principles. Familiarity with optical simulation software, laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis tools is typically required, along with experience in experimental design. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and clear scientific communication are essential soft skills for success. These competencies enable innovative research, effective teamwork, and dissemination of findings in a highly technical and collaborative academic environment.

What are some common challenges faced by photonics postdocs when transitioning from academic research to industry roles?

Photonics postdocs often find the shift from academia to industry challenging due to differences in project timelines, expectations, and communication styles. In industry, results-driven projects may require faster turnaround and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, emphasizing practical applications over theoretical exploration. Adjusting to proprietary research, intellectual property policies, and the need for concise reporting are also common hurdles. Developing strong project management and communication skills can help ease this transition and open opportunities for career growth in both research and development settings.
More about Photonics Postdoc jobs
What cities are hiring for Photonics Postdoc jobs? Cities with the most Photonics Postdoc job openings:
What states have the most Photonics Postdoc jobs? States with the most job openings for Photonics Postdoc jobs include:
Infographic showing various Photonics Postdoc job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,022 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Quantum Physics Postdoctoral Researcher

Quantum Physics Postdoctoral Researcher

Technergetics

Rome, NY • On-site

$88K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Opportunity Overview:

We are seeking two Postdoctoral Researchers in Quantum Physics to join the Technergetics Quantum Team and support advanced research sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense. This position is intended for recent PhD graduates interested in conducting fundamental and applied quantum research in a mission-driven, industrial R&D environment. The research program spans multiple areas of quantum science and technology, with an emphasis on developing new capabilities, exploring emerging quantum approaches, and transitioning promising concepts toward real-world applications. Publications and conference participation are encouraged, subject to sponsor review.

Position Details:     

Number of Positions Available: Two

Salary Range: $88,000-$103,000 annually.

Employment Type: These are Full-Time Exempt, Benefits Eligible, Fixed-Term (1 year, with possible 1-year extension) positions. Exceptional candidates may be considered for conversion to a permanent position at the conclusion of the appointment, but a permanent position is not guaranteed.

Start Date: Flexible

Location: We are looking to fill one on-site position and one fully remote position.

The on-site position is located in Rome, NY, with work performed at AFRL and the Innovare Advancement Center at the Rome Griffiss Institute campus.  Candidates must be located, or re-locate, within a commutable distance to Rome, NY.  

Due to the clearance required for this position, only U.S. citizens are eligible to apply; as outlined in Executive Order 12968: Access to Classified Information, eligibility for access to classified information may only be granted to employees who are United States citizens.       

Mentorship & Professional Development

The Postdoctoral Researcher will:

  • Work under the mentorship of a senior scientist or principal investigator
  • Have a defined research plan with regular technical reviews
  • Be encouraged to publish and present at leading conferences, subject to sponsor approval
  • Receive professional development support for careers in industry, government laboratories, or academia

Research Focus Areas

Specific topics may include (but are not limited to):

  • Quantum information science and quantum computing
  • Quantum sensing, metrology, and signal processing
  • Quantum communication, networking, and distributed quantum systems
  • Hybrid and heterogeneous quantum systems integrating multiple technologies
  • Experimental and/or theoretical quantum physics
  • Modeling, simulation, and control of quantum systems
  • Quantum algorithms and methods for information analysis, optimization, and planning
  • Integration of emerging technologies to enhance quantum platforms

Research direction will be aligned with both the candidate's expertise and active DoD-sponsored programs.

Responsibilities and Duties   

This project aims to support research conducted by the Technergetics Quantum Team. This research includes developing heterogeneous quantum networks with different quantum technologies, utilizing quantum technologies for practical applications such as signal processing and detection, improving quantum systems with novel technologies such as integrated photonics, and utilizing quantum algorithms for improved information analysis and planning. The ideal candidate will: 

  • Conduct independent and collaborative research in quantum physics and quantum technologies
  • Develop theoretical models, numerical simulations, and/or experimental systems related to quantum research efforts
  • Analyze and interpret experimental or simulation data
  • Document research results through internal reports, briefings, and technical reviews
  • Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and presentations for scientific conferences, subject to review and approval
  • Collaborate with internal scientists, engineers, and external academic and government partners
  • Participate in technical discussions, design reviews, and research planning activities
  • Contribute, as appropriate, to proposal development and technology transition efforts

Education and Certifications:    

A PhD (completed or near completion) in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field

Required Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of quantum information science and quantum networking including how to implement quantum key distribution or distributed entanglement. 
  • Use of programming languages such as python for data analysis and hardware control 
  • Knowledge of fabrication and characterization techniques for technologies including (but not limited to) quantum dots, color centers, integrated photonic circuits, superconducting circuits, trapped ions, and Rydberg atoms. 
  • Knowledge of how these technologies can advance current communication and computing processes. 

Clearance:    

Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and must meet and maintain eligibility requirements for, at minimum, Secret access to classified information.     

Travel:    

This position is expected to require 10% travel.  

Benefits:   

Our benefits package includes health, life, disability, dental, and vision insurance coverage and a 401(k) policy with a 3% company contribution & 3% company match.    

Other perks include generous Paid Time Off (including a PTO "gift day" for your birthday), 11 Federal Holidays per year, three weeks paid maternity/paternity leave, and annual technology "allowances".   

Even more perks include referral bonuses, professional recognition awards, healthcare stipends, tuition/education reimbursement (once specific requirements are met), and flexible daily start and stop times for most projects and positions.   

Company Description   

Technergetics is a US-based company headquartered in Utica, NY, with employees and clients located throughout the country.  The Utica/Rome area is a hub of cutting-edge cyber technology research, bolstered by the Griffiss Business & Technology Park's tenants and facilities, including the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL).  At Technergetics, we work with a wide variety of technologies, including mobile and web apps, Quantum computing, machine learning and artificial intelligence, AI-enabled edge devices, and many more.   

Beware of fraudulent job offers and postings!  
Technergetics will never extend an offer of employment without a thorough interview process involving face to face interviews either in-person or a virtual Teams meeting from an official Technergetics email address (@techngs.com). If you receive any correspondence from an email other than techngs.com, it is a scam. Pre-interview code testing is only administered through the Codility platform. We will not send out questionnaires or testing through any other platform/site prior to a first interview.  

We do not discriminate on the basis of  race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.