1

Photonics Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Acacia division of Cisco is looking for an integrated photonics test engineer. Meet the Team Acacia (part of Cisco) is a market leader in high-speed coherent optical transceivers, pioneering the ...

The Acacia division of Cisco is looking for an integrated photonics test engineer. Meet the Team Acacia (part of Cisco) is a market leader in high-speed coherent optical transceivers, pioneering the ...

We are seeking a Photonics Test Manager in our Broomfield, CO Location. All applicants for ... Personnel Manager for a team of engineers and scientists whose charter is to characterize photonic ...

Test Engineer-Photonics

Bedford, MA · On-site

$88K - $134K/yr

Test Engineer Location: Bedford, MA Division: Photonics Department: EM4 About This Role: QCI is seeking a Test Engineer to enhance our test engineering capability within the manufacturing engineering ...

Job Summary We are seeking a motivated and hands-on Tech Lead - Optical Test Engineer to contribute to the development and deployment of optical test solutions for silicon photonics devices and ...

IPG Photonics is revolutionizing the laser industry as the pioneering developer and leading ... The IPG Systems Test Engineer will test, install and run laser-based systems according to ...

IPG Photonics is revolutionizing the laser industry as the pioneering developer and leading ... The IPG Systems Test Engineer will test, install and run laser-based systems according to ...

Showing results 41-60

Photonics Test Engineer information

See salary details

$17

$44

$74

How much do photonics test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for photonics test engineer in the United States is $44.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a photonics test engineer do?

A Photonics Test Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and executing tests to evaluate the performance of photonic devices and systems, such as lasers, optical fibers, and sensors. They analyze data to ensure components meet technical specifications and industry standards. Their work often involves troubleshooting, optimizing test setups, and collaborating with design and manufacturing teams to improve product quality and reliability. Photonics Test Engineers play a crucial role in industries like telecommunications, medical devices, and aerospace, where precise control and measurement of light are essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a photonics test engineer?

To thrive as a Photonics Test Engineer, you need a solid background in optics, photonics, and electronics, typically supported by a degree in physics, electrical engineering, or a related field. Proficiency with optical test equipment (such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and interferometers), as well as familiarity with programming languages and data analysis tools, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure precise testing, accurate data interpretation, and effective collaboration on complex photonics projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by photonics test engineers during product development?

Photonics Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring measurement accuracy when working with delicate optical components and high-speed photonic devices. They must carefully design and calibrate testing setups to minimize signal loss and external interference. Collaborating closely with design and manufacturing teams is also essential to troubleshoot unexpected test results and adapt test protocols as prototypes evolve. Staying current with rapid advancements in photonics technology further adds to the complexity of the role.

What cities are hiring for Photonics Test Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Photonics Test Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Photonics Test Engineer jobs?

For Photonics Test Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Photonics Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Photonics Test Development Engineer

Rochester, NY • On-site

Ny Creates
Semiconductor and Electronic Component Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

$120K - $160K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


NY Creates rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

NY Creates serves as a bridge for advanced electronics, leads projects that advance R&D in emerging technologies, and generates the jobs of tomorrow. NY Creates also runs some of the most advanced facilities in the world, boasts more than 3,000 industry experts and faculty, and manages public and private investments of approximately $25 billion - placing it at the global epicenter of high-tech innovation and commercialization.

Job Description:

The position lies within Electronic Photonic Design and Automation (EPDA)/Design Enablement group based in Rochester, NY.

The role is for a hands‑on individual contributor who will own and be responsible for test and measurement of photonic devices and circuits for internal and external customers. Since this position requires extensive interaction with customers, equipment vendors the engineer is expected to have very good communication and presentation skills. Prior experience working with customers and vendors is highly valued.

Key Responsibilities
  • Measure photonic devices and circuits using test equipment including BERT, AWG, Digital Signal Analysis for eye diagrams, RF and Optical Spectrum Analyzers, Real Time Oscilloscopes, Lasers, Optical Power meters, Polarization control, automated wafer and die prober, manual die prober.
  • Develop new measurement setups based on customer requirements
  • Extract and analyze key performance parameters for both active and passive photonic devices from measured data including waveguides, edge couplers, grating couplers, photodiodes, modulators, lasers, SOAs, detectors, etc.
  • Prepare reports summarizing the analysis of the results.
  • Provide the above support across multiple projects simultaneously, maintaining both project schedules and measurement dependability.
  • Perform the above in both ordinary lab spaces as well as clean room facilities. Follow all cleanliness and safety requirements.
  • Work with customers to scope measurement projects, and perform measurements in a timely manner.
  • Work with test equipment vendors for periodic maintenance, resolving equipment issues and developing new testing methodologies
  • Other reasonable duties as assigned
Essential Functions

40% of time - Measure devices and circuits for internal and external customers. Develop equipment drivers, automation scripts for measurements.
20% of time - Interact with test equipment vendors for maintenance, equipment issues and collaboration for new testing techniques
20% of time - Meet with customers to understand the scope of their projects and provide periodic updates
10% of time - Documentation, presentations, reports, and contribution to publications
10% of time - Other duties as assigned

Requirements: Minimum Qualifications, Photonics Test Development Engineer
  • BS/MS/PhD with 3 - 10 years experience in a related technical area
  • Experience measuring RF performance of electronic/photonics structures is a must including S-parameters, and eye-diagram measurements.
  • Experience working in a lab environment is a must
  • Experience developing drivers, and automation scripts for measurements and probers
  • Experience analyzing data, developing scripts, using statistical tools for processing data
  • Ability to work and collaborate with peers to improve efficiency and improve automated solutions

This position is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a background check; this position may require annual background checks.

  • Medical, Vision, and Dental
  • Competitive Pay and PTO
  • Flexible Heath Spending and Dependent Care Accounts
  • Basic / Optional Life Insurance
  • Employer contribution of 7% of earnings to a Basic Retirement plan after meeting one year of service.
  • Optional employee contributed retirement account.
Salary Range:

$120,000 - $160,000

*Posted salary rates are determined upon experience and education

Additional Information:

NOTE: Some positions require access to export-controlled commodities, technical data, technology, software, or restricted programs where U.S. Government authorization may be required.

For positions requiring such access, offers of employment are contingent upon the employer being able to obtain the necessary authorization, including, if required, an export license from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security, the U.S. Department of State's Directorate of Defense Trade Controls, or other government agencies. The decision to pursue an export license application is at The Research Foundation for SUNY's sole discretion. Proof of status may be required prior to employment in connection with necessary authorizations.

Employment is with the Research Foundation for SUNY. The Research Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you have a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to apply please call Human Resources at 518-437-8686.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What NY Creates employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom