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Software Photonics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IPG Photonics

Intern, Engineering

Marlborough, MA

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Working at IPG Photonics you can expect challenging projects, a motivating and friendly environment, and workinghand-in-hand with skilled teams of software and hardware engineers. Job Summary IPG ...

Lyte

Photonics IC Engineer - Tech Lead

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated Photonics IC Technical Lead to join our team. In this role, you ... Experience developing software in Python, C, C++, or MATLAB * Experience building and debugging ...

IonQ

Senior Photonics Test Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

As a Senior Photonics Test Engineer, you'll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to ... Strong programming skills for data analysis and experimental automation software, and experience ...

IPG Photonics

Intern, Engineering

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

IPG Photonics is revolutionizing the laser industry as the pioneering developer and leading ... Software design for process control, DAQ and logging applications

NY CREATES

Manager of Photonics Development

Albany, NY · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Position Summary, Manager of Photonics Development This posting is to hire an experienced ... data, technology, software, or restricted programs where U.S. Government authorization may be ...

IPG Photonics

Intern, Engineering

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Working at IPG Photonics you can expect challenging projects, a motivating and friendly environment, and working hand-in-hand with skilled teams of software and hardware engineers. Job Summary IPG ...

IPG Photonics

Intern, Engineering

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

IPG Photonics is revolutionizing the laser industry as the pioneering developer and leading ... Software design for process control, DAQ and logging applications Enrollment in a relevant ...

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Software Photonics information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do software photonics jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for software photonics in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Software Photonics Engineer?

A Software Photonics Engineer is a professional who develops and applies software tools to design, simulate, and optimize photonic devices and systems. They work at the intersection of software engineering and photonics, using programming skills to model light behavior in optical components such as lasers, waveguides, and fiber optics. Their work is essential in industries like telecommunications, data centers, and advanced manufacturing, where photonic technologies are used for high-speed data transmission and sensing. These engineers often collaborate with hardware teams to integrate their software solutions into real-world photonic hardware.

What is the difference between Software Photonics vs Optical Engineer?

AspectSoftware PhotonicsOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, physics, or related fields; knowledge of software development and photonics principlesBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, electrical engineering, or physics; specialized knowledge in optical systems
Work EnvironmentPrimarily software development labs, research centers, or tech companies focusing on photonics applicationsDesign, testing, and deployment of optical systems in labs, manufacturing, or field environments
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, research institutions, telecommunications, and defense industriesOptical component manufacturers, telecommunications, aerospace, and research labs

While both roles involve photonics, Software Photonics focuses on developing software solutions for photonics systems, whereas Optical Engineers work on designing and testing physical optical components and systems. The roles often overlap in research and development projects but differ mainly in their core focus—software versus hardware.

How do software photonics professionals typically collaborate with hardware teams to develop integrated optical solutions?

Software photonics professionals often work closely with hardware engineers to design, simulate, and optimize photonic systems. This collaboration ensures that software models accurately reflect physical behaviors and that device prototypes meet system requirements. Regular cross-functional meetings, shared documentation, and iterative testing are common practices, helping to bridge the gap between simulation and real-world performance. Such teamwork not only enhances product quality but also provides valuable learning opportunities for both software and hardware specialists.

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

To thrive as a Software Photonics Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, optics, and computer science, typically with a relevant degree in electrical engineering, applied physics, or a related field. Experience with simulation tools (such as Lumerical or COMSOL), programming languages (like Python, C++, or MATLAB), and familiarity with photonic device modeling are crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies enable precise design and optimization of photonic systems, driving innovation and reliability in optical technologies.
Intern, Engineering

Intern, Engineering

IPG Photonics

Marlborough, MA

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

IPG Photonics rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

IPG Photonics is revolutionizing the laser industry as the pioneering developer and leading producer of fiber lasers and amplifiers. Headquartered in Marlborough, MA, IPG has over 4,800 employees in more than 30 locations around the world. We aspire to work together with our employees and customers to apply light in ways that improve life.

Our mission is to develop innovative laser solutions to make the world a better place. To accomplish this mission, we are committed to attracting and retaining the best talent and an engaged and thriving workforce that drives a sustainable future for our company and society.

Working at IPG Photonics you can expect challenging projects, a motivating and friendly environment, and workinghand-in-hand with skilled teams of software and hardware engineers.

Job Summary

IPG Photonics (NASDAQ:IPGP) is focused on developing next-generation products based on IPG's state-of-the-art lasers. The FPGA Developer Intern is responsible for working as a team member to support the development of laser systems. The successful candidate must have the ability to learn new skills quickly and follow established company practices.

We frequently work in small teams to solve problems, explore new technologies, and learn from one another. The ideal intern for this environment will be enthusiastic and collaborative.

Duties:

  • Support R&D Engineering team in Marlborough, MA with development of new hardware and software
  • Work with software team to coordinate development of new software features and resolve issues
  • Work with hardware team to develop test cases for FPGA
  • Document and test new software features
  • Perform regression test on software fixes
  • Assess new application ideas

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