OPT Photonics Engineer Jobs
Photonics Engineer roles in semiconductor fabrication, defense optics, and fiber-optic communications regularly sponsor OPT students. STEM OPT eligibility applies to this occupation, giving you up to three years of work authorization while your employer pursues long-term sponsorship through H-1B visa or other pathways.
Find OPT Photonics Engineer JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 18+ Photonics Engineer jobs
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 JobsWho We Are
Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor chip and advanced display in the world. The equipment that we create and service is essential to advancing AI and accelerating the commercialization of next-generation semiconductor chips. Join us and push the boundaries of materials science and engineering in a company at the foundation of the electronics industry. The work we do together advances the world’s technology.
What We Offer
Salary:
$138,000.00 - $190,000.00
Location:
Santa Clara, CA
You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company.
At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go.
Job Mission
We are looking to hire a highly motivated, hands-on technical individual to join our CTO Quantum program. The role will help define, develop, and evaluate novel photonic and optical technologies, including metasurface, integrated photonic, and inspection/metrology concepts, that enable scalable quantum systems on advanced substrates. You will connect photonic simulation, layout, fabrication, and measurement data to run feasibility studies, show new capabilities, and support technical decisions as quantum technologies move from lab demonstrations to manufacturable platforms.
Key Responsibilities
- Independently execute engineering projects and contribute to research and development of new technologies.
- Define experiments (including DOE) and determine the type of meaningful data required to support evaluation and technical decisions.
- Identify and troubleshoot design, process, and measurement problems.
- Interface with design, process, metrology, and mask teams.
- Apply advanced principles, theories, and concepts, and contribute to the development of new methods and capabilities.
- Prepare and deliver technical readouts and share new ideas with the team.
- Own electromagnetic simulation of nanophotonic, metasurface, and integrated photonic components, including convergence validation, parameter sweeps, and optical-loss analysis.
- Design thin-film optical stacks (e.g., anti-reflection coatings) and evaluate material and geometry tradeoffs.
- Translate optimized designs into fabrication-ready GDSII layouts using scripted/parameterized layout generation; run design rule checks and support tape-out verification.
- Support mask data preparation and computational lithography activities (OPC/RET, model calibration data, and verification).
- Correlate simulation with metrology and optical test data; evaluate process-variation impact and convert results into design and process guidelines.
- Build automated Python/MATLAB pipelines for data processing, statistical analysis, and reporting; present simulation, layout, and verification readouts to the team.
Tools & Software
Photonics Simulation:
- Required: FDTD (e.g., Ansys Lumerical FDTD) and RCWA (e.g., RSoft DiffractMOD, S4, or in-house)
- Transfer-matrix / thin-film tools (e.g., Essential Macleod, TFCalc, or custom code)
- Preferred: Lumerical MODE/CHARGE, COMSOL Multiphysics, or RF/electro-optic solvers
Layout / Mask Data:
- Required: GDSII/OASIS layout and scripting (e.g., KLayout, gdsfactory/gdstk)
- Preferred: Cadence Virtuoso; Siemens Calibre or Synopsys tools for DRC, OPC/RET, and MDP
Data Processing:
- Python (NumPy, SciPy, Matplotlib), MATLAB, Linux/scripting
Functional Knowledge
Demonstrates conceptual and practical expertise in own discipline and basic knowledge of related disciplines.
Business Expertise
Has knowledge of best practices and how own area integrates with others; is aware of the competition and the factors that differentiate them in the market.
Leadership
Acts as a resource for colleagues with less experience; may lead small projects with manageable risks and resource requirements.
Problem Solving
Solves complex problems; takes a new perspective on existing solutions; exercises judgment based on the analysis of multiple sources of information.
Impact
Impacts a range of project activities within own team and other related teams; works within broad guidelines and policies.
Interpersonal Skills
Explains difficult or sensitive information; works to build consensus.
- Strong problem solving and creative thinking skills
- Solid foundation in optics/photonics, electromagnetics, and semiconductor processing
- Quick learner, comfortable with both computational and hands-on lab work
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Qualifications
Education: Ph.D. in Applied Physics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics/Photonics, Materials Science and Engineering, or equivalent (completed by start date).
Years of Experience: 0–2 years post-Ph.D.; relevant industry internship experience is a plus.
Required
- Ph.D. research in nanophotonic, metasurface, or integrated photonic device simulation and design
- Hands-on experience with FDTD and/or RCWA simulation
- Programming skills (Python and/or MATLAB) for simulation automation and quantitative data analysis
- Familiarity with GDS layout generation and scripting
Preferred
- Cleanroom fabrication experience (e.g., e-beam lithography, dry etch)
- Optical characterization and measurement-system experience
- Experience with OPC/RET, mask data preparation, or DRC rule decks
- Experience with active/passive PIC devices, wafer-level metrology, or quantum-technology
Additional Information
Time Type: Full time
Employee Type: New College Grad
Travel: Yes, 10% of the Time
Relocation Eligible: No
The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.
For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.
Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.
Who We Are
Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor chip and advanced display in the world. The equipment that we create and service is essential to advancing AI and accelerating the commercialization of next-generation semiconductor chips. Join us and push the boundaries of materials science and engineering in a company at the foundation of the electronics industry. The work we do together advances the world’s technology.
What We Offer
Salary:
$138,000.00 - $190,000.00
Location:
Santa Clara, CA
You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company.
At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go.
Job Mission
We are looking to hire a highly motivated, hands-on technical individual to join our CTO Quantum program. The role will help define, develop, and evaluate novel photonic and optical technologies, including metasurface, integrated photonic, and inspection/metrology concepts, that enable scalable quantum systems on advanced substrates. You will connect photonic simulation, layout, fabrication, and measurement data to run feasibility studies, show new capabilities, and support technical decisions as quantum technologies move from lab demonstrations to manufacturable platforms.
Key Responsibilities
- Independently execute engineering projects and contribute to research and development of new technologies.
- Define experiments (including DOE) and determine the type of meaningful data required to support evaluation and technical decisions.
- Identify and troubleshoot design, process, and measurement problems.
- Interface with design, process, metrology, and mask teams.
- Apply advanced principles, theories, and concepts, and contribute to the development of new methods and capabilities.
- Prepare and deliver technical readouts and share new ideas with the team.
- Own electromagnetic simulation of nanophotonic, metasurface, and integrated photonic components, including convergence validation, parameter sweeps, and optical-loss analysis.
- Design thin-film optical stacks (e.g., anti-reflection coatings) and evaluate material and geometry tradeoffs.
- Translate optimized designs into fabrication-ready GDSII layouts using scripted/parameterized layout generation; run design rule checks and support tape-out verification.
- Support mask data preparation and computational lithography activities (OPC/RET, model calibration data, and verification).
- Correlate simulation with metrology and optical test data; evaluate process-variation impact and convert results into design and process guidelines.
- Build automated Python/MATLAB pipelines for data processing, statistical analysis, and reporting; present simulation, layout, and verification readouts to the team.
Tools & Software
Photonics Simulation:
- Required: FDTD (e.g., Ansys Lumerical FDTD) and RCWA (e.g., RSoft DiffractMOD, S4, or in-house)
- Transfer-matrix / thin-film tools (e.g., Essential Macleod, TFCalc, or custom code)
- Preferred: Lumerical MODE/CHARGE, COMSOL Multiphysics, or RF/electro-optic solvers
Layout / Mask Data:
- Required: GDSII/OASIS layout and scripting (e.g., KLayout, gdsfactory/gdstk)
- Preferred: Cadence Virtuoso; Siemens Calibre or Synopsys tools for DRC, OPC/RET, and MDP
Data Processing:
- Python (NumPy, SciPy, Matplotlib), MATLAB, Linux/scripting
Functional Knowledge
Demonstrates conceptual and practical expertise in own discipline and basic knowledge of related disciplines.
Business Expertise
Has knowledge of best practices and how own area integrates with others; is aware of the competition and the factors that differentiate them in the market.
Leadership
Acts as a resource for colleagues with less experience; may lead small projects with manageable risks and resource requirements.
Problem Solving
Solves complex problems; takes a new perspective on existing solutions; exercises judgment based on the analysis of multiple sources of information.
Impact
Impacts a range of project activities within own team and other related teams; works within broad guidelines and policies.
Interpersonal Skills
Explains difficult or sensitive information; works to build consensus.
- Strong problem solving and creative thinking skills
- Solid foundation in optics/photonics, electromagnetics, and semiconductor processing
- Quick learner, comfortable with both computational and hands-on lab work
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Qualifications
Education: Ph.D. in Applied Physics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics/Photonics, Materials Science and Engineering, or equivalent (completed by start date).
Years of Experience: 0–2 years post-Ph.D.; relevant industry internship experience is a plus.
Required
- Ph.D. research in nanophotonic, metasurface, or integrated photonic device simulation and design
- Hands-on experience with FDTD and/or RCWA simulation
- Programming skills (Python and/or MATLAB) for simulation automation and quantitative data analysis
- Familiarity with GDS layout generation and scripting
Preferred
- Cleanroom fabrication experience (e.g., e-beam lithography, dry etch)
- Optical characterization and measurement-system experience
- Experience with OPC/RET, mask data preparation, or DRC rule decks
- Experience with active/passive PIC devices, wafer-level metrology, or quantum-technology
Additional Information
Time Type: Full time
Employee Type: New College Grad
Travel: Yes, 10% of the Time
Relocation Eligible: No
The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.
For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.
Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.
See all OPT Photonics Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Photonics Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Photonics Engineer
Verify your degree qualifies for STEM OPT
Photonics Engineering typically qualifies under CIP codes for Electrical Engineering or Applied Physics. Confirm with your DSO that your specific program code is on the STEM OPT designated degree list before your initial OPT period ends.
Target employers with E-Verify enrollment first
STEM OPT extensions require your employer to be enrolled in E-Verify. Filter your job search to companies already in the E-Verify program so you don't lose extension eligibility after accepting an offer.
Research prevailing wages using OFLC Wage Search
Photonics Engineer salaries vary significantly between defense contractors, telecom firms, and semiconductor fabs. Pull the Level I through Level IV wage bands for your target metro using OFLC Wage Search before negotiating, so your offer clears DOL requirements at filing.
Build credentials around defense optics employers carefully
Many photonics roles at defense contractors require security clearances, which non-U.S. citizens on OPT cannot hold. Identify whether a posted role is unclassified or clearance-required before applying to avoid disqualification late in the process.
Use Migrate Mate to match your OPT status to sponsoring employers
Photonics Engineer openings span industries with very different sponsorship track records. Migrate Mate surfaces employers actively filing for optical and photonics roles, so you focus on companies that have already sponsored comparable positions.
Negotiate your I-983 training plan before your start date
STEM OPT requires a formal training plan filed on Form I-983. Get the plan agreed upon with your employer's HR or immigration contact before you start, not after, so your DSO can process the extension without delays that interrupt your work authorization.
Photonics Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Photonics Engineer role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree's CIP code, not the job title itself. Photonics Engineering programs are often classified under Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or Optical Sciences, most of which appear on the STEM OPT designated degree list. Confirm your specific program code with your DSO before relying on STEM OPT eligibility for a job offer.
Which industries hire Photonics Engineers on OPT most consistently?
Semiconductor fabrication, fiber-optic communications, medical device manufacturing, and research-focused defense contractors are the most active sectors. Academic and national laboratory positions also hire OPT students frequently. You can browse current openings filtered by OPT authorization on Migrate Mate to see which employers are actively posting for this role.
Can I work on defense photonics projects while on OPT?
You can work on unclassified defense photonics projects on OPT, but roles requiring a security clearance are off-limits for non-U.S. citizens regardless of work authorization status. Read each job description carefully for clearance requirements, and ask recruiters directly whether the position has access restrictions before progressing through interviews.
What does my employer need to file for my STEM OPT extension?
Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify and must complete Form I-983, the training plan that documents your learning objectives and supervision structure. USCIS requires this form to be signed by both you and your employer before your DSO can recommend the extension. The filing happens through your school, not directly with USCIS.
How early should I start the H-1B sponsorship conversation with a Photonics Engineer employer?
Start the conversation during your offer negotiation, not after you've accepted. H-1B registration opens in March for an October 1 start date, and employers need lead time to engage immigration counsel. If you're starting a role in summer or fall, you may need to rely on cap-gap protection to bridge authorization between OPT expiration and H-1B activation.