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Semiconductor Laser Jobs (NOW HIRING)

QCi

The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in semiconductor laser physics, photonic device design, process integration, and system-level modeling. This role requires a hands-on leader capable of ...

Semtech

Senior Test Development Engineer

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$117K - $165K/yr

Minimum 10+ years of relevant semiconductor lasers automated test stations development experience * Must have extensive experience in Active Alignment Systems and Pick-and-Place machines development ...

Semtech

Senior Test Development Engineer

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$117K - $165K/yr

Minimum 10+ years of relevant semiconductor lasers automated test stations development experience * Must have extensive experience in Active Alignment Systems and Pick-and-Place machines development ...

Coherent

Lead Test Development Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

Skills * Solid background and experience in semiconductor laser testing and instrumentation. * Proficient in data analysis and statistical evaluation related to test engineering. * Exceptional ...

Coherent

Process Engineer - Scribe & Break

Sherman, TX · On-site

Primary Duties & Responsibilities Develop scribe and break processes for new semiconductor laser devices. Sustain production processes in the scribe and break area. Support associated metrology ...

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Semiconductor Laser information

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How much do semiconductor laser jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for semiconductor laser in the United States is $24.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Semiconductor Laser vs Optical Engineer?

AspectSemiconductor LaserOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsPhysics or Electrical Engineering degree, specialized training in laser technologyPhysics, Optical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering degree, knowledge of optics and laser systems
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsResearch labs, product development, optical system design
Industry UsageDesign and manufacturing of laser devices, photonicsOptical system design, laser integration, photonics applications

While Semiconductor Lasers focus on the development and manufacturing of laser devices, Optical Engineers work on designing and integrating optical systems that may include lasers. Both roles require a strong background in optics and physics, but Semiconductor Lasers are more specialized in laser hardware, whereas Optical Engineers have broader applications in optical system design.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a semiconductor laser engineer?

To thrive as a Semiconductor Laser Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, electrical engineering, and semiconductor device theory, typically supported by a relevant degree such as a BS or MS in Electrical Engineering or Physics. Familiarity with simulation tools (e.g., COMSOL, Lumerical), cleanroom fabrication processes, and photonics lab equipment is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and troubleshooting complex devices. These skills ensure the successful design, development, and optimization of semiconductor lasers in advanced technology applications.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in semiconductor laser development?

Professionals in semiconductor laser development often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise control over temperature and current to ensure stable laser performance, as small fluctuations can impact device reliability. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, including material scientists and optical engineers, is essential to address integration and manufacturability issues. Additionally, staying current with rapid technological advances and adapting to evolving industry standards can require ongoing training and flexibility. These challenges make the role dynamic and suited to those who enjoy problem-solving in a fast-paced, high-tech environment.

What is a semiconductor laser?

A semiconductor laser, also known as a laser diode, is a device that emits coherent light when an electric current passes through a semiconductor material. These lasers are widely used in applications such as optical communications, barcode scanners, laser pointers, and CD/DVD players because of their small size, efficiency, and ability to produce a range of wavelengths. Semiconductor lasers work by recombining electrons and holes at the junction of a p-n semiconductor, which releases energy in the form of light. Their compactness and cost-effectiveness have made them essential in many modern technologies.
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Semiconductor Laser jobs near you
Infographic showing various Semiconductor Laser job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,757 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Senior/Principal Engineer, Photonics Design

QCi

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Senior Principal Engineer, Photonics Design

Location: Hoboken, NJ/Cranbury, NJ

Division: Technology

Department: PIC Engineering

Reports to: Senior Director, PIC Engineering

About Us

Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) (Nasdaq: QUBT) is an innovative, integrated photonics company that provides accessible and affordable quantum machines to the world today. QCi products are designed to operate at room temperature and low power at an affordable cost. The Company's portfolio of core technology and products offer unique capabilities in the areas of high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, cyber security as well as remote sensing applications.

Position Description 

We are seeking an experienced Senior/Principal Engineer to lead the design, integration, and development of photonic integrated circuits with integrated laser sources. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in semiconductor laser physics, photonic device design, process integration, and system-level modeling. This role requires a hands-on leader capable of driving projects from concept through fabrication, testing, and qualification, with a strong focus on innovation and performance optimization for next-generation photonic systems.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Lead the design and modeling of integrated photonic circuits incorporating lasers, modulators, amplifiers, and passive components.
  • Develop and optimize epitaxial structures for laser integration on photonic platforms (e.g., Thin-film lithium niobate, Si photonics).
  • Perform optical and electrical modeling using tools such as Lumerical, COMSOL, FDTD, and Matlab/Python codes.
  • Drive process integration efforts including mask design, fabrication flow development, and collaboration with foundry partners.
  • Conduct device characterization, performance analysis, and reliability testing to meet product specifications.
  • Provide technical leadership in cross-functional teams including epitaxy, process engineering, testing, and reliability.
  • Support product qualification efforts including wafer acceptance testing, reliability modeling, and failure analysis.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies and contribute to intellectual property and technical roadmap development.
Required Skills and Experience
  • Ph.D. in Optics, Photonics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 10+ years of industrial experience in semiconductor laser design, fabrication, and testing.
  • Strong background in photonic device modeling (FDTD, FDFD, PWEM, TMM, FEM).
  • Proficiency with photonic design and simulation tools (Lumerical, COMSOL, Sentaurus, etc.).
  • Experience with III-V semiconductor processes including lithography, etching, deposition, and characterization.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead technical projects and mentor junior engineers.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with photonic crystal lasers (PCSEL), VCSELs, DFB, EML, or SOA devices.
  • Knowledge of integrated photonic platforms (Si photonics, InP, heterogeneous integration).
  • Proficiency in programming for data analysis and automation (Python, Matlab, SQL, VBA).
  • Experience with reliability testing, wear-out modeling, and qualification for high-volume production.
  • Familiarity with mask design tools (KLayout, L-Edit) and process integration for photonics.
  • Track record of innovation through patents, publications, or product development.
  • Experience working in a cross-cultural, multi-site R&D environment.

Incumbent(s) in this position may be required to perform other duties and special assignments not specifically stated above. Statements outlined in this section are designated as essential job functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.


Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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