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Photonics Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary The Technical Sales Associate supports business development, customer engagement, and sales activities for Syntec Optics' advanced optics, photonics, and precision manufacturing ...

You'll solve complex challenges at the intersection of software, automation, manufacturing, and photonics while creating tools that accelerate product development and scale advanced manufacturing ...

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Knowledge and/or experience with VHDL, MCM, HFSS, Network, Power, Analog, Antennas, Controls, ENE, RF, Photonics, Modem, EDA, DSP, MATLAB, Communication Systems, FPGA, Aerospace industry or Optical ...

Knowledge and/or experience with VHDL, MCM, HFSS, Network, Power, Analog, Antennas, Controls, ENE, RF, Photonics, Modem, EDA, DSP, MATLAB, Communication Systems, FPGA, Aerospace industry or Optical ...

Knowledge and/or experience with VHDL, MCM, HFSS, Network, Power, Analog, Antennas, Controls, ENE, RF, Photonics, Modem, EDA, DSP, MATLAB, Communication Systems, FPGA, Aerospace industry or Optical ...

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Photonics information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$27.1K

$56K

$59.7K

How much do photonics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for photonics in Rochester, NY is $55,967.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $58,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 strong background in optics, physics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software (like COMSOL or Zemax), laser systems, and fiber optics, as well as relevant certifications, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top professionals apart in this role. These skills ensure the successful design, testing, and implementation of photonic devices and systems critical to industries like telecommunications and healthcare.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in photonics, and how can they be addressed?

Photonics professionals often encounter challenges such as staying up-to-date with rapidly evolving technologies, managing complex interdisciplinary projects, and working with precise, sensitive equipment. Collaboration with experts in electronics, software, and materials science is typically essential to solve technical problems and innovate effectively. Developing strong communication skills and keeping abreast of industry trends through continuous learning can help individuals navigate these challenges and advance their careers.

Is photonics a good career?

Photonics is a growing field that involves the study and application of light technologies, including lasers, optical fibers, and imaging systems. Careers in photonics often require a background in physics, engineering, or related fields, and can offer opportunities in industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. The field typically offers competitive salaries and demand for skilled professionals with specialized technical knowledge.

What can you do with photonics?

Photonics professionals work with the generation, manipulation, and detection of light using tools like lasers, optical fibers, and photonic devices. They develop technologies for telecommunications, medical imaging, laser manufacturing, and sensor systems, often requiring knowledge of optics, electronics, and materials science.

What are popular job titles related to Photonics jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Photonics jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Photonics jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Photonics jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Photonics jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Photonics job openings:

Infographic showing various Photonics job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,967 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Photonics Heterogeneous Integration & Optical Interconnects Co op

Rochester, NY • On-site


NY CREATES
Semiconductor and Electronic Component Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 74 rated research

Great coworkers

Good employer


$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

About NY Creates:

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:

Position Summary, Photonics Heterogeneous Integration & optical Interconnects Co-op

This co-op will assist in the design, assembly, and test of the next generation of AIM Photonics TAP's heterogeneously integrated materials and optical interconnects, interfacing AIM's photonic integrated circuits to other optical components such as thin-film lithium niobate, lasers, and fiber optic cable. The student will assist in the design, fabrication, integration, and characterization of waveguides, photonic devices, micro-optics, and free space beams, including assisting with setup of deployment of needed equipment and processes. They will help create and update standard operating procedures and work instructions, support process qualifications, and assist with internal test vehicles and customer builds.

This is an opportunity for the student to obtain hands-on experience with cutting-edge photonics design, test, and packaging in a foundry environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Integrate thin films and micro-optical elements into existing photonic integrated circuits using a variety of semiconductor assembly and metrology equipment including photolithography, chemistry benches, thin-film bonders, atomic force microscope, IR microscope, ellipsometer, etc.
  • Test assembled chips with photonics test equipment such as electrical and optical probe stations, optomechanical systems, optical backscatter reflectometer, among others.
  • Assist with the deployment of new equipment as needed.
  • Assist with the development of thin film coupons, thin film devices, and micro-optics for PIC integration as needed, using internal test vehicles.
  • Create and revise standard operating procedures and work instructions based on experience with the assembly equipment.
  • Gain familiarity with the foundry model and assist with component development and design guides for the TAP assembly design kit.
  • Assist with customer builds as needed.
Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications, Photonics Heterogeneous Integration & optical Interconnects Co-op

  • Currently enrolled as a full-time student in a relevant undergraduate or graduate engineering program (microelectronics, mechanical, or materials) and has completed at least three years of their program if undergraduate.
  • Must be available for at least 6 months of continuous, full-time employment.
  • Basic understanding of photonics or optoelectronics concepts.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

This position is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a background check.

Preferred Qualifications, Photonics Heterogeneous Integration & optical Interconnects Co-op

  • Previous experience with photonic integrated circuits or optoelectronics
  • Previous experience with optical modeling software
  • Previous experience working with an optics table and free space optics

Don't meet every requirement? At NY Creates we are dedicated to building a welcoming team. If you are excited about working for NY Creates but your experience doesn't exactly align perfectly with the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway, you might still be a perfect fit for this or another role.

Benefits

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

Location: 257 Fuller Road, Albany, NY 12203

Salary Range: $25.00 per hour

*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.

  
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