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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 ...

Work closely with engineers involved in the exciting field of Integrated Photonics and helping host visitors, guests and vendors visiting AIM Photonics. Requirements: Minimum Qualifications ...

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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 Jul 26, 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 photonics?

Photonics is the science and technology of generating, controlling, and detecting photons, which are particles of light. It involves the use of light for various applications such as fiber-optic communications, lasers, medical diagnostics, and imaging systems. Professionals in photonics work on developing devices and systems that use light to transmit information, process data, or perform precise measurements. The field combines elements of physics, engineering, and material science to create innovative solutions for industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, and defense.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Photonics jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,967 per year, or $26.9 per hour.
Process Development Engineer (Photonics)

Process Development Engineer (Photonics)

NY Creates

Rochester, NY • On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


NY Creates rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 72 rated research


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, Process Development Engineer (Photonics) AIM Photonics is looking for a Process Development Engineer who will be hands-on working with advanced solder interconnect equipment and materials for the assembly of optoelectronic packages. AIM Photonics is one of nine United States Department of Defense Manufacturing Innovation Institutes which are industry-driven, public-private partnerships that focus on the nation's premiere capabilities and expertise to capture critical global manufacturing leadership. AIM Photonics is headquarters at NY Creates in Albany, NY. The AIM Photonics Test, Assembly, and Packaging facility (TAP) is new state-of-the-art electronic photonic packaging facility in Rochester, NY. Photonics packaging is 90% of the cost of photonic products and can be a differentiator in the success of the final product. Key Responsibilities Develop interconnect processes and build heterogeneously integrated electronic and optoelectronic packages using state of the art equipment at TAP. Run DOE experiments to find best machine parameters to achieve successful builds of advanced packages. Such processes include flip chip, solder, attach, plasma cleaning, thermal compression bonding, additive printing, and dispensing. Evaluate and qualify materials including solders used in electronic and optoelectronic packages as required by customers' application. Work with high precision equipment to build parts with good solder interconnect integrity and reliability. Perform continuous inspection, characterization, and metrology of a process to make sure process is robust. Serve as a liaison with marketing, vendors, purchasing and customer on technical information Interpret failure analysis reports and cross-sections to understand solder joint integrity. Gather and analyze data: Conduct root cause and failure mode analysis to efficiently improve yields and device performance. Develop and perform semiconductor assembly processes such as: Active alignment fiber attach Optical component alignment Wafer Dicing Die pick/sort Other reasonable duties assigned. Requirements: Minimum Qualifications, Process Development Engineer (Photonics) Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, materials Science, engineering physics, or equivalent from a college or University accredited by the USDOE or internationally recognized accrediting organization. 3+ years of experience in fabrication, packaging, or semiconductor devices as well as experience in fiber attach, dicing, or wire bonding. This position is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a background check. Preferred Qualifications, Process Development Engineer (Photonics) Master's Degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineer, Materials Science, Engineering, Physics or equivalent from a college or University accredited by the USDOE or internationally recognized accrediting organization. Strong understanding of engineering and materials science fundamentals and a demonstrated aptitude to learn. Experience in cleanroom, high precision equipment, inspection, and characterization equipment in semiconductor assembly line. Experience in back-end assembly process including flip-chip bumping, thermal compression bonding, and solder reflow will be highly desirable. Experience with flux and fluxless soldering of eutectic solder alloys and intermetallic formation. Experience with failure analysis of solder joints Strict discipline to follow rules, specifications, have good attention to details as well as have good organization skills. DOE experience is a plus. Excellent oral and written communication skills. 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: $100,000-$135,000 Eng Level I $100,000-$110,000 Eng Level II $110,000-$120,000 Eng Level III $120,000-$135,000 *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.

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