ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Physics Startup Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

UniversalAGI

ML Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Competitive Salary + Equity Who We Are UniversalAGI is building OpenAI for Physics. AI startup based in San Francisco and backed by Elad Gil (#1 Solo VC), Eric Schmidt (former Google CEO), Prith ...

Luminary

Geometry/Meshing Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

... startup environment, working collaboratively with low ego and clear communication • Passionate about applying computational physics and AI to solve real-world engineering challenges Company

Luminary Cloud

Geometry/Meshing Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

Thrives in a fast-paced startup environment, working collaboratively with low ego and clear communication. * Passionate about applying computational physics and AI to solve real-world engineering ...

W3Global Inc.

Founding Process Engineer

Goleta, CA

$110K - $150K/yr

Overview We are a venture-backed deep tech startup commercializing novel InP-based high-power ... D. in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or equivalent hands-on experience.

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPhysics Startup JobsPhysics Startup Jobs in California

Physics Startup information

See California salary details

$5

$19

$25

How much do physics startup jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics startup in California is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Physics Startup vs Physics Research Scientist?

AspectPhysics StartupPhysics Research Scientist
Required CredentialsTypically requires a Bachelor's or Master's in Physics or related field; some roles may prefer PhDUsually requires a PhD in Physics or a closely related discipline
Work EnvironmentFast-paced, entrepreneurial, often in office or lab settings, with a focus on product development or innovationAcademic or institutional labs, research centers, with focus on experiments and theoretical work
Employer & Industry UsageStartups, tech companies, R&D firms focusing on new technologies or applicationsUniversities, government labs, research institutions

Physics startups focus on applying physics principles to develop new products or technologies in a dynamic environment, often requiring entrepreneurial skills. Physics research scientists primarily conduct experiments and theoretical research in academic or institutional settings. Both roles require strong physics backgrounds but differ in work environment and objectives.

What are some typical challenges faced when working at a physics startup, and how can I prepare for them?

Working at a physics startup often involves navigating rapid changes, limited resources, and a need for creative problem-solving. You'll likely be required to wear multiple hats, adapt quickly, and contribute outside your core area of expertise. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as teams are typically small and highly collaborative. Preparing by developing flexibility, strong project management skills, and a proactive attitude will help you thrive in this dynamic environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive at a physics startup, and why are they important?

To thrive at a physics startup, you need a strong background in physics or engineering, problem-solving abilities, and preferably an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with simulation software, lab instrumentation, and data analysis tools—as well as experience with prototyping and product development—are often essential. Initiative, adaptability, and strong collaboration skills help individuals excel in the dynamic and fast-paced environment of a startup. These skills enable innovative solutions, efficient progress, and effective teamwork, which are crucial for the success and growth of a physics-focused startup.

What is a physics startup?

A physics startup is a company that leverages advancements in physics to develop new technologies, products, or services. These startups often focus on innovative solutions in areas like quantum computing, advanced materials, medical devices, or energy. Physics startups typically emerge from academic research or collaborations and aim to commercialize scientific breakthroughs. They play a crucial role in bringing cutting-edge physics research to market, driving technological progress and economic growth.
What are popular job titles related to Physics Startup jobs in California? For Physics Startup jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Physics Startup jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Startup jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Physics Startup jobs? Cities in California with the most Physics Startup job openings:
Physics Startup jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Startup job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,184 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Principal Reliability and Quality Engineer (Optical Systems)

Coherent Corp.

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description


Primary Duties & Responsibilities
  • Lead reliability strategy development for new optical product platforms, ensuring robust design and manufacturability from early architecture stages through production ramp.
  • Collaborate closely with optical designers, mechanical engineers, process engineers, manufacturing teams, and suppliers to identify technical risks and implement mitigation plans to prevent product failures.
  • Lead root cause investigations and failure analysis activities, leveraging physics-of-failure principles and structured problem-solving techniques (8D, DMAIC, etc.).
  • Drive quality improvements through process optimization, data-driven decision making, and continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, SPC).
  • Establish and improve quality systems, procedures, and metrics appropriate for a dynamic, startup-oriented environment while maintaining compliance with corporate and industry standards.
  • Define and execute comprehensive qualification and validation plans to ensure product robustness, lifetime performance, and compliance with internal and customer reliability requirements.
  • Develop and implement reliability test methodologies including accelerated life testing, environmental stress screening, HALT/HASS, and aging studies.
  • Analyze reliability data using statistical methods to estimate lifetime performance, failure rates, and confidence levels; clearly communicate findings to technical and executive stakeholders.
  • Partner with suppliers to evaluate process capability, manufacturing readiness, and long-term reliability risks.
  • Support production ramp activities, ensuring scalability, yield improvement, and sustained reliability performance.Lead reliability strategy development for new optical product platforms, ensuring robust design and manufacturability from early architecture stages through production ramp.
  • Collaborate closely with optical designers, mechanical engineers, process engineers, manufacturing teams, and suppliers to identify technical risks and implement mitigation plans to prevent product failures.
  • Lead root cause investigations and failure analysis activities, leveraging physics-of-failure principles and structured problem-solving techniques (8D, DMAIC, etc.).
  • Drive quality improvements through process optimization, data-driven decision making, and continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, SPC).
  • Establish and improve quality systems, procedures, and metrics appropriate for a dynamic, startup-oriented environment while maintaining compliance with corporate and industry standards.
  • Define and execute comprehensive qualification and validation plans to ensure product robustness, lifetime performance, and compliance with internal and customer reliability requirements.
  • Develop and implement reliability test methodologies including accelerated life testing, environmental stress screening, HALT/HASS, and aging studies.
  • Analyze reliability data using statistical methods to estimate lifetime performance, failure rates, and confidence levels; clearly communicate findings to technical and executive stakeholders.
  • Partner with suppliers to evaluate process capability, manufacturing readiness, and long-term reliability risks.
  • Support production ramp activities, ensuring scalability, yield improvement, and sustained reliability performance.

Education & Experience
B.S, M.S. or higher in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related technical field.
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in reliability and quality engineering focused on optical systems, photonics devices, or optoelectronic assemblies.
  • Demonstrated experience supporting products through NPI and high-volume manufacturing environments.
  • Experience working in fast-paced or startup environments preferred.

Skills
  • Strong technical understanding of optical systems including lasers, optical switching, transceivers, photonic components, packaging, and opto-mechanical assemblies.
  • Expertise in reliability statistics, Weibull analysis, accelerated life testing, and physics-of-failure methodologies.
  • Hands-on experience with failure analysis techniques such as cross-sectioning, SEM, material analysis, and electrical/optical characterization.
  • Proven track record in process improvement, yield enhancement, and implementation of quality management systems.
  • Ability to synthesize complex technical data into clear, actionable recommendations for cross-functional teams and leadership.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively across global teams and suppliers.
  • Self-driven, adaptable, and comfortable operating in ambiguous or rapidly evolving environments.

Working Conditions
  • Office environment with regular interaction in laboratory and manufacturing settings.
  • Occasional domestic and international travel to suppliers and manufacturing sites may be required.Office environment with regular interaction in laboratory and manufacturing settings.
  • Occasional domestic and international travel to suppliers and manufacturing sites may be required.

Physical Requirements
Ability to work in laboratory and manufacturing environments, including extended periods of sitting, standing, and use of standard lab equipment.
Safety Requirements
All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.
Quality and Environmental Responsibilities
Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.
Culture Commitment
Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:
Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust
Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome
Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone
Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.
#LI-AW1
#IND
About Us
Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.

Apply