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Rf Photonics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HyperLight

RF Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

Senior Photonics Design Engineer HyperLight is at forefront in commercialization of thin-film ... We are seeking an RF Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you will be responsible for ...

HyperLight

RF Engineer

Cambridge, MA

Senior Photonics Design Engineer HyperLight is at forefront in commercialization of thin-film ... We are seeking an RF Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you will be responsible for ...

Nokia

High-Speed Package Design Engineer

Murray Hill, NJ

$143K/yr

Nokia Bell Labs is seeking a High-Speed Package Design Engineer to drive the design, simulation, and validation of advanced IC packages for high-performance RF, photonics, and mixed-signal systems.

QCi

RF Systems Engineer

Hoboken, NJ · On-site

RF/Systems Engineer Location: Hoboken, NJ Division: Technology Department: Defense Reports to ... QUBT) is an innovative, integrated photonics company that provides accessible and affordable ...

QCi

RF/Systems Engineer Location: Hoboken, NJ Division: Technology Department: Defense Reports to ... QUBT) is an innovative, integrated photonics company that provides accessible and affordable ...

AeroVironment, Inc.

Director - ARD

Dayton, OH · On-site

$180K - $265K/yr

... engineering. This role is also expected to demonstrate corporate citizenship by expanding the ... RF Photonics, Biomanufacturing, Ultra High Temperature Ceramics, Electronic Protection, RF ...

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Rf Photonics Engineer information

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$37K

$117.7K

$183K

How much do rf photonics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf photonics engineer in the United States is $117,680.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,500.00 and $139,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Rf Photonics Engineer vs RF Systems Engineer?

AspectRf Photonics EngineerRF Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or related fields; often certifications in photonics or RFBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related fields; certifications in RF or wireless systems
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, optical communication companies, photonics manufacturingTelecommunications, defense, wireless communication companies
Industry UsageOptical and photonics industries, specialized in RF photonics integrationWireless, radar, and communication systems development

Rf Photonics Engineers focus on integrating RF signals with photonic systems, working heavily with optical components. RF Systems Engineers design and optimize RF communication systems. While both roles require RF knowledge, Rf Photonics Engineers specialize in photonic integration, whereas RF Systems Engineers focus on RF system performance and deployment.

How does an RF Photonics Engineer typically collaborate with other engineering teams during a project?

RF Photonics Engineers often work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including RF engineers, optical engineers, and systems integration specialists. Collaboration is key when designing, testing, and troubleshooting photonic devices and systems, as projects frequently require integrating RF and optical components. Regular meetings and cross-functional reviews help ensure that system requirements are met, and any technical challenges are addressed efficiently. This collaborative environment not only fosters innovation but also provides opportunities to broaden your expertise across related engineering domains.

What are RF Photonics Engineers?

RF Photonics Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and optimize systems that integrate radio frequency (RF) engineering with photonics, the science of light generation, manipulation, and detection. They work on technologies that use light to transmit and process RF signals, which can improve data transmission speed and bandwidth in communication systems. Their work is critical in advancing telecommunications, radar, and sensor systems by leveraging the advantages of photonics for RF applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an RF Photonics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an RF Photonics Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, optics, and photonics, usually supported by a relevant degree such as electrical engineering or physics. Familiarity with simulation tools like MATLAB, ADS, or Lumerical, as well as experience with optical test equipment and knowledge of fiber-optic communication systems, are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing, analyzing, and optimizing advanced RF-photonic systems that meet rigorous technical and industry standards.
Infographic showing various Rf Photonics Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $117,680 per year, or $56.6 per hour.
RF Engineer

RF Engineer

HyperLight

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Senior Photonics Design Engineer
HyperLight is at forefront in commercialization of thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) integrated photonics - a material and process technology that is enabling high-performance, scalable optical components across AI/datacom infrastructure, hyperscale computing, quantum computing, sensing, and beyond. Founded in 2018 and backed by leading venture capital, we've built a team and a platform focused on real-world mass deployment of TFLN photonics technology.
At the core of our work is the TFLN Chiplet™ platform - a modular, integrated architecture designed for scalability, manufacturability, and seamless integration into complex systems. It offers a rare combination of extraordinary performance and industrial readiness, enabling system developers across applications to deploy the technology fast and ready. We partner with our customers and suppliers from conceptualization, design, and prototyping phases, all the way through mass production to ensure smooth and rapid deployment of TFLN photonic technology.
We believe our platform is the key to in the golden age of integrated photonics industry to empower humanity to the next level. We assembled a world class team covering engineering, business and operations. We believe in the power of integrity, innovation, collaboration and pragmatic solutions. Our diverse team thrives on challenges and is united by a shared commitment to excellence. We take pride in tackling complex challenges with curiosity, humility, and a deep sense of care for one another.
We are seeking an RF Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you will be responsible for the design and validation of integrated RF passive components and interconnects for optical modulators operating at mmWave frequencies. You will also lead the co-design and integration of our modulators with active components such as driver amplifiers. As an RF Engineer at HyperLight, you will play a crucial role in developing cutting-edge solutions for advanced communication systems.
Join us to make a real-world impact in a fast-paced, collaborative and high-growth environment.
We provide:
  • Competitive market-based compensation
  • Comprehensive health coverage, including medical, vision, and dental plans for individuals and families
  • 401(k) retirement plans with employee matching
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Commuter benefits and subsidies
  • Professional growth and mentorship opportunities

Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including process engineers and system architects to design and optimize RF components for photonic integrated circuits, including interconnects, terminations, and traveling wave electro-optic modulators.
  • Perform detailed electromagnetic simulation and modeling using tools such as CST Microwave Studio, COMSOL, or Ansys HFSS.
  • Develop and implement VNA test and calibration techniques for characterizing RF components at mmWave frequencies on-wafer and in-package.
  • Conduct thorough validation of RF components, including measurement and analysis using state-of-the-art equipment.
  • Provide technical guidance throughout the product development lifecycle, from concept to manufacturing and production.

Requirements:
  • 3+ years of relevant work experience or equivalent experience through an advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in electrical engineering, physics, or a related field.
  • Deep understanding of transmission line theory, S-parameters, differential signaling, time-domain reflectometry (TDR), eye diagrams, and passive RF circuit design.
  • Proficiency in electromagnetic simulation tools (e.g., CST Microwave Studio, Ansys HFSS) and RF design tools (e.g., Cadence, Keysight ADS).
  • Expertise in passive RF components, such as coupled transmission lines, impedance matching networks and interconnects. Experience with integrated on-die RF design is a plus.
  • Hands-on experience with RF measurements using network analyzers, signal generators, and power meters; probe station experience and familiarity with on-wafer calibration techniques are a plus.
  • Strong communication skills to convey complex technical concepts clearly.
  • Familiarity with software automation for measurement equipment.
  • Familiarity with statistical data analysis using tools like Python or JMP.
  • Familiarity with optical modulators, optical communication links, and/or photonic integrated circuits is highly desirable.
  • Familiarity with power integrity concepts is a plus.

Authorization to work in the US is required. This position is onsite at HyperLight HQ.
HyperLight is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

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