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Physics Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

The Applied Physics & Technology Directorate (APS-TD) conducts highly innovative research and ... Under the direction of an expert mechanical engineer, project tasks may include cryogenic component ...

S. Degree in a relevant technical field, such as engineering, material science, or physics EOE Policy Statement: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to ...

Yield and Device Engineering Manager

Hopewell, NY · On-site

$127.80K - $217.20K/yr

S. in Electrical Engineering, Solid State Physics, or a related engineering field. * Minimum 10 years of experience in semiconductor device engineering, yield improvement, or integration/module ...

Optical Metrology Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$95.39K - $131.16K/yr

Optics or Physics preferred. • 2-5 years in designing instrumentation for testing precision ... engineers. • Experience and understanding of geometrical optics and optical test methods. • ...

Product Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

S. Degree in a relevant technical field, such as engineering, material science, or physics EOE Policy Statement: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to ...

Optics or Physics preferred. • 2-5 years in designing instrumentation for testing precision ... engineers. • Experience and understanding of geometrical optics and optical test methods. • ...

Process Engineer

Fairport, NY

$84.93K - $116.78K/yr

Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or Science discipline (e.g., Optical Science/Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering). * 3+ ...

Process Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$84.93K - $116.78K/yr

Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or Science discipline (e.g., Optical Science/Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering). * 3+ ...

Process Engineer

Fairport, NY

$84.93K - $116.78K/yr

Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or Science discipline (e.g., Optical Science/Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering). * 3+ ...

Mechanical Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$128K - $176K/yr

As a Mechanical Engineer, you'll leverage your strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and materials science to process and resolve mechanical problems, design and implement custom mechanical ...

As a Mechanical Engineer, you'll leverage your strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and materials science to process and resolve mechanical problems, design and implement custom mechanical ...

... physics. The LLE Electronics and Controls Engineering group has a broad portfolio of custom embedded electronics and consumer off the shelf (COTS) products deployed across the lab. We are seeking an ...

FPGA Design Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$70.20K - $105.30K/yr

... physics. The LLE Electronics and Controls Engineering group has a broad portfolio of custom embedded electronics and consumer off the shelf (COTS) products deployed across the lab. We are seeking an ...

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Physics Engineer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$25

$52

$75

How much do physics engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics engineer in Rochester, NY is $52.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.69 and $61.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Physics Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with simulation software (such as COMSOL or ANSYS), laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis tools is commonly required in this role. Problem-solving ability, analytical thinking, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for Physics Engineers. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, testing, and implementing innovative solutions to complex technical challenges in research and industry.

How does a Physics Engineer typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during project development?

Physics Engineers often work alongside electrical, mechanical, and software engineers, as well as researchers and project managers, to develop innovative solutions. Collaboration usually involves sharing experimental data, integrating physics-based models with engineering designs, and participating in regular team meetings to align goals and troubleshoot challenges. Effective communication and a willingness to translate complex physical concepts into practical applications are key to ensuring project success and fostering a productive team environment.

What does a Physics Engineer do?

A Physics Engineer applies principles of physics and engineering to design, develop, and improve products, processes, or technologies. They often work in industries such as aerospace, electronics, energy, and manufacturing, using their expertise to solve complex technical problems. Their responsibilities can include conducting experiments, modeling physical systems, analyzing data, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to bring innovative solutions from concept to reality. Physics Engineers bridge the gap between theoretical science and practical engineering applications.

What is the difference between Physics Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPhysics EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, technology firmsManufacturing, design firms, automotive, aerospace
Industry UsageHigh-tech industries, research institutions, defenseManufacturing, product design, energy sectors

Physics Engineers focus on applying physics principles to develop new technologies and conduct research, often working in labs or R&D settings. Mechanical Engineers design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems, working in industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. While both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, Physics Engineers tend to emphasize research and theoretical applications, whereas Mechanical Engineers focus on practical design and production.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physics Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Physics Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What job categories do people searching Physics Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
Precision Optics Development Engineer

Precision Optics Development Engineer

Corning

Fairport, NY

$119.54K - $164.37K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 511 rated manufacturers


Job description

Requisition Number: 74712

The company built on breakthroughs. 
Join us.           
       

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible. 

How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations- not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company,and the world, forward. 

At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more. 

Come break through with us. 

Corning's businesses are ever-evolving to best serve our customers, industries, and consumers. Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical communications, display, automotive, and solar markets. We are changing the world with: 

  • Trusted products that accelerate drug discovery, development, and delivery to save lives
  • Damage-resistant cover glass to enhance the devices that keep us connected
  • Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light
  • Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences 
  • Auto glass and ceramics to drive cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation 
  • Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy solutions
Role Purpose

Corning Incorporated is hiring a Precision Optics Development Engineer at our technology site in Rochester, NY. This role typically works 40+ hours per week with flex as needed. U.S. citizenship or U.S. person status is required for this position.

Shape the future of advanced manufacturing in Corning's Advanced Optics group. In this role, you will lead hands-on innovation in high-precision optical fabrication, developing and optimizing advanced processes for mirrors, lenses, aspheres, and freeform optics used in next-generation semiconductor inspection systems. You will work across Corning's optics development environment to solve complex technical challenges and expand manufacturing capabilities for increasingly advanced optical systems. You will use scientific and engineering methods to develop new process capabilities, analyze results, and support prototype manufacturing for cutting-edge customer applications. Join a passionate, collaborative team where your technical expertise will drive real-world impact and push the boundaries of what's possible in optics.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and optimize advanced polishing processes for glass, crystals, and other optical substrates across flats, spheres, aspheres, and freeform surfaces
  • Design and execute experiments using scientific and engineering principles to develop new capabilities
  • Analyze experimental results and translate findings into actionable process improvements
  • Manufacture prototype optics for advanced optical systems used by semiconductor equipment customers
  • Identify, assess, and manage technical risks across development programs
  • Communicate results clearly to peers, leaders, and technology partners
  • Stay current on emerging technologies and process innovations in precision optics manufacturing
  • Support expansion of manufacturing capabilities for more complex and higher-performing optical systems
  • Collaborate across R&D, development, and manufacturing teams to advance process readiness
  • Mentor junior engineers and technicians
Minimum Qualifications & Skills
  • Bachelor's degree in optics, physics, or a related STEM field
  • 5+ years of experience in high-precision asphere fabrication for visible or DUV optical systems
  • Proficiency with CNC platforms such as grinders, polishers, MRF, IBF, or sub-aperture polishers on glasses and crystals
  • Hands-on experience reducing or smoothing mid-spatial frequency errors
  • Knowledgeable about optical metrology methods
  • Record of accomplishment implementing new processes on schedule and within budget
  • U.S. citizen or U.S. person required
Preferred Qualifications & Skills
  • MS or PhD in optics, physics, or a related STEM field
  • Experience with EUV or X-ray optics, diamond turning, or metal and alloy substrates
  • Understanding of cleanroom environments protocols and optical surface cleaning processes
  • Experience with Design of Experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis tools
  • Proven ability to manage priorities across competing demands

This position supports immigration sponsorship.


The range for this position is $119,542.00 - $164,370.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. 

A job that shapes a life. 

Corning offers you the total package. 

Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.

  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.  
  • Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions. 

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.

Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.


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