CPT Photonics Engineer Jobs
Photonics Engineer CPT jobs let F-1 students apply optical systems coursework directly in industry labs, defense contractors, and semiconductor firms. Your DSO must authorize each CPT position as an integral part of your degree program before you start. Part-time CPT (under 20 hours weekly) keeps your OPT eligibility intact.
See All CPT Photonics Engineer JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 8+ Photonics Engineer jobs
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
See all Photonics Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Photonics Engineer roles.
Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
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 25 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 competitive benefits.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
A Mechanical Design Engineer Intern supports engineering teams in designing, analyzing, and improving mechanical components, systems, and production layouts. This role combines CAD design, documentation, and hands-on engineering support.
Key Responsibilities
- Create 2D drawings and 3D CAD models using tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD
- Assist in product design and development from concept to prototype
- Develop detailed engineering drawings with proper GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) standards
- Design and optimize floor plans/layouts for manufacturing or workstation setups
- Create and maintain Bills of Materials (BOM) for assemblies, stations, and systems
- Support simulation and analysis such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and basic testing
- Work with cross-functional teams (manufacturing, quality, procurement)
- Assist in prototyping, assembly, and troubleshooting mechanical systems
- Document designs, revisions, and test results
- Participate in design reviews and continuous improvement initiatives
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Must be enrolled in an engineering degree program—Mechanical engineering or related field
- Based on engineering degree program
- Experience with mechanical design and applicable software—Solidworks—Draftsight
- Knowledge of basic engineering principles and practices
- Experience with MS Office products (Word, Excel, Visio)
PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS
- Strong oral, written and interpersonal skills required for interaction within group and other departments
- Results-oriented, with ability to multitask
- Aptitude to learn new systems and technologies
- Ability to maintain professional demeanor at all times
- Attention to detail
- Have the ability to work a consistent schedule during business hours
- Reliable transportation
INTRODUCTION
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 25 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 competitive benefits.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
A Mechanical Design Engineer Intern supports engineering teams in designing, analyzing, and improving mechanical components, systems, and production layouts. This role combines CAD design, documentation, and hands-on engineering support.
Key Responsibilities
- Create 2D drawings and 3D CAD models using tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD
- Assist in product design and development from concept to prototype
- Develop detailed engineering drawings with proper GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) standards
- Design and optimize floor plans/layouts for manufacturing or workstation setups
- Create and maintain Bills of Materials (BOM) for assemblies, stations, and systems
- Support simulation and analysis such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and basic testing
- Work with cross-functional teams (manufacturing, quality, procurement)
- Assist in prototyping, assembly, and troubleshooting mechanical systems
- Document designs, revisions, and test results
- Participate in design reviews and continuous improvement initiatives
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Must be enrolled in an engineering degree program—Mechanical engineering or related field
- Based on engineering degree program
- Experience with mechanical design and applicable software—Solidworks—Draftsight
- Knowledge of basic engineering principles and practices
- Experience with MS Office products (Word, Excel, Visio)
PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS
- Strong oral, written and interpersonal skills required for interaction within group and other departments
- Results-oriented, with ability to multitask
- Aptitude to learn new systems and technologies
- Ability to maintain professional demeanor at all times
- Attention to detail
- Have the ability to work a consistent schedule during business hours
- Reliable transportation
See all CPT Photonics Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new CPT Photonics Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsPhotonics Engineer CPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Photonics Engineer CPT job need to relate directly to my degree?
Yes. CPT must be an integral part of your established curriculum, which means the photonics or optical engineering work you perform must connect to a specific course or academic requirement your program recognizes. A role focused purely on unrelated electrical systems or general lab technician tasks won't satisfy the CPT integral-part requirement, and your DSO can deny authorization if the connection isn't clear.
Can I do CPT at a defense contractor or government lab as a Photonics Engineer?
Yes, but defense contractors and national labs often require security clearances or citizenship for certain project assignments. As an F-1 student you're generally ineligible for most clearance levels, so confirm the specific project scope with the employer before your DSO submits CPT authorization. Many photonics roles at these employers involve unclassified optical systems work that is fully accessible to F-1 students.
How do I find Photonics Engineer employers who hire CPT students?
Migrate Mate surfaces Photonics Engineer roles at employers with documented F-1 hiring history, so you can prioritize companies already familiar with CPT authorization letters and I-9 compliance. Employers experienced with F-1 students typically have HR processes in place and don't require you to educate them about CPT documentation requirements before extending an offer.
Does working full-time as a CPT Photonics Engineer affect my future OPT?
Twelve or more months of full-time CPT eliminates your OPT eligibility entirely under USCIS rules. Part-time CPT, defined as under 20 hours per week, doesn't count toward that threshold regardless of how many semesters you use it. If your photonics program spans multiple co-op terms, structure longer engagements as part-time to preserve your 12-month OPT and potential 24-month STEM OPT extension.
What wage should I expect a Photonics Engineer CPT role to pay?
Wages for Photonics Engineer roles vary by region, employer size, and whether the position is part-time or full-time CPT. The OFLC Wage Search shows prevailing wages by SOC code and geographic area, which gives you a reliable baseline for evaluating offers. Bureau of Labor Statistics data on optical and photonics engineers also provides national and regional wage percentiles to benchmark what you're being offered against the broader market.