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Remote Optical Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... collaboration with remote fabrication partners . You will play a key role in enabling ... optical networking platforms. * Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field

Research Scientist

Baltimore, MD · Remote

$120K - $150K/yr

Experience with remote sensing datasets, specifically satellite radar, altimetry, and optical ... Experience with physics-informed neural networks, neural operators, Graph Neural Networks, or AI ...

Research Scientist

Baltimore, MD · On-site +1

$120K - $150K/yr

Experience with remote sensing datasets, specifically satellite radar, altimetry, and optical ... Experience with physics-informed neural networks, neural operators, Graph Neural Networks, or AI ...

... Remote Eligible Yes Base Salary Range: $148000 - $222000 Descriptions & Requirements and ... At Synopsys, you will work with a portfolio that spans Mechanical, Fluids, Electronics, Optics, and ...

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Remote Optical Physicist information

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do remote optical physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote optical physicist in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Does Apple hire physicists?

Apple hires physicists for roles related to optics, display technology, and hardware development, often requiring expertise in optics, materials science, and experimental physics. These positions may involve working with advanced imaging systems, optical components, and research and development teams. Candidates typically need a strong background in physics, relevant technical skills, and experience with laboratory tools and simulations.

How much does an optical physicist make?

An optical physicist typically earns between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in laser systems or photonics can earn higher salaries, especially in research or industry settings.

Can a physicist work from home?

A remote optical physicist can often work from home, especially for tasks involving data analysis, simulations, and research that do not require physical laboratory access. However, some roles may require on-site presence for experiments, equipment calibration, or collaboration with laboratory teams. The feasibility depends on the specific job responsibilities and employer policies.

What is the difference between Remote Optical Physicist vs Remote Optical Engineer?

AspectRemote Optical PhysicistRemote Optical Engineer
Required credentialsAdvanced degrees in physics or optics, research experienceBachelor's or master's in optical engineering or related field
Work environmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsProduct development, design, manufacturing settings
Employer & industry usageUniversities, research institutions, tech companiesOptical product companies, telecommunications, consumer electronics
Common search & comparison intentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, job scopeDesigning optical systems, practical applications

Remote Optical Physicists focus on fundamental research, theoretical modeling, and experimental physics related to optics. In contrast, Remote Optical Engineers apply practical engineering principles to design, develop, and optimize optical systems and devices. While both roles require a strong background in optics, physicists typically work in research settings, whereas engineers are more involved in product development and implementation.

What is a Remote Optical Physicist?

A Remote Optical Physicist is a scientist who specializes in the study and application of light (optics) and its interactions with matter, while performing their job duties from a remote location. They typically work on designing, analyzing, and optimizing optical systems and devices such as lasers, lenses, and sensors. Remote Optical Physicists collaborate with teams, conduct simulations, and analyze data using specialized software, all while communicating through digital platforms. This role is common in industries like telecommunications, medical imaging, defense, and research organizations that support remote work.

Are optical engineers in demand?

Optical engineers, including those working as remote optical physicists, are in high demand due to advancements in photonics, laser technology, and optical communication systems. Employers seek professionals with skills in optical design, simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards, making the field competitive and growth-oriented.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Optical Physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Optical Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, optics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant advanced degree (MSc or PhD). Familiarity with simulation software (such as Zemax or COMSOL), laboratory data analysis tools, and remote collaboration platforms is essential. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective virtual communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills enable precise research, innovative optical design, and effective teamwork in a remote environment, ensuring successful project outcomes.

How does a Remote Optical Physicist typically collaborate with engineers and other scientists on complex projects?

As a Remote Optical Physicist, you’ll frequently work alongside multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, software developers, and other scientists. Collaboration often takes place through virtual meetings, shared simulation tools, and collaborative platforms like Git or cloud-based document editors. Clear communication and thorough documentation are essential, as you may need to explain experimental results, propose design improvements, or troubleshoot issues remotely. Building strong relationships and leveraging digital tools help ensure project goals are aligned and progress smoothly, despite the distance.
More about Remote Optical Physicist jobs
What cities are hiring for Remote Optical Physicist jobs? Cities with the most Remote Optical Physicist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Physicist jobs? The most popular types of Optical Physicist jobs are:
What states have the most Remote Optical Physicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Optical Physicist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Remote Optical Physicist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.
Digital Signal Processing Engineer

Digital Signal Processing Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)

Laurel, MD • On-site, Remote

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 57 rated research


Job description

Description

Are you experienced with Digital Signal Processing for RF and wireless electronics and systems?

Are you interested in contributing to the development of space RF/ optical systems, payloads, and electronics for communications, PNT, remote sensing, and ISR&T applications?

Are you passionate about teaming and driving technology and science to new levels?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team!

We are seeking a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) engineer to design, analyze and develop RF and optical systems and payloads for NASA and DoW's next generation space missions. You 'll be joining a hard-working team of engineers who thrive on making critical contributions to our Nation's critical challenges. Our culture embraces our core values of unquestionable integrity, trusted service to our nation, world-class expertise, game-changing impact, highly collaborative, and even fun environment!

As a Digital Signal Processing Engineer...

  • You will work with engineers and scientists to develop new concepts for software defined radios and payloads for space RF and optical systems for communications, PNT, remote sensing, and ISR&T applications.
  • You will lead technical teams throughout the payload development cycle, including concept, trade studies, prototype work, flight development, integration, and test for both space and ground segment applications.
  • You will perform DSP algorithms design, simulation, hardware platform trade studies, technical tradeoffs, and costing for both space and ground segment implementations.
  • You will contribute to modeling, simulation, and analysis of space RF/ optical systems to support communications, remote sensing, ISR&T, and EW missions.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

  • Possess a BS or MS in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
  • Have 5+ years direct experience in digital signal processing for RF or optical systems or payload design, development, simulation (MATLAB, SystemVue, or equivalent) and test.
  • Have experience in wireless modem or receiver design and/or testing.
  • Are willing and able to accommodate flexible hours for spacecraft level testing activities for short periods of time, infrequent travel to customer or sponsor locations as well as spacecraft integration and test sites.
  • Are able to obtain an interim Top-Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI+poly level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

  • Possess a PhD degree in Electrical Engineering with previous digital signal processing for RF systems or payload design leadership experience.
  • Have experience with software-defined radios (SDR), antennas, RF characterization and measurements to Ka-band or beyond, optical, PNT systems design, radar systems design, or military satellite communications systems.
  • Ability to work independently without technical oversight.
  • Other key skills: SIGINT, EW, Precision Timing, Time Transfer, PNT, and Radar Design

About Us

Why Work at APL?

 

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.


Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually