Photonics Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts
Photonics Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are among the most active in the country, concentrated in defense optics, biomedical imaging, semiconductor photonics, and quantum technologies, with openings at every level from entry-level optical engineer to principal systems engineer. The heaviest hiring is in and around Boston, the Route 128 corridor, and the greater Lowell area, where established employers like Raytheon Technologies, II-VI Incorporated, and MIT Lincoln Laboratory maintain large engineering workforces. The most consistent demand is in fiber optic systems, laser design, and optical sensing. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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About Analog Devices
Analog Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADI ) is a global semiconductor leader that bridges the physical and digital worlds to enable breakthroughs at the Intelligent Edge. ADI combines analog, digital, AI, and software technologies into solutions that combat climate change, reliably connect humans and the world, and help drive advancements in automation and robotics, mobility, healthcare, energy and data centers. With revenue of more than $11 billion in FY25, ADI ensures today's innovators stay Ahead of What's Possible. Learn more at www.analog.com and on LinkedIn and X .
Analog Devices is building new capabilities in integrated photonics, optical communications, co-packaged optics (CPO), near-packaged optics (NPO), and advanced optical control systems. We are investing in both internal laboratory capability and external collaborations with leading universities, foundries, and research institutions. Our Wilmington photonics lab is now operational and supporting multiple demonstrator programs spanning silicon photonics, microring modulators, and next-generation optical interconnect technologies.
We are looking for a hands-on engineer who enjoys building systems, solving difficult measurement challenges, and working at the intersection of photonics, electronics, packaging, and control.
Key Responsibilities
Photonics System Bring-Up & Characterization
Lead characterization of photonic demonstrator platforms.
Develop and execute optical, electrical, thermal, and system-level test plans.
Perform measurements including:
Optical spectrum analysis
High-speed modulation testing
BER characterization
Thermal tuning and resonance characterization
Optoelectronic Control-loop validation
Eye diagram and signal integrity analysis
Die and wafer level measurements
Correlate laboratory results to system-level optical interconnect requirements.
Laboratory Ownership
Own day-to-day operation of the Wilmington photonics laboratory.
Specify, commission, maintain , and calibrate laboratory equipment.
Develop laboratory procedures and characterization methodologies.
Support future lab capability expansion and equipment procurement.
Automation & Data Analysis
Develop Python-based automation frameworks.
Create repeatable characterization workflows.
Analyze large measurement datasets.
Generate technical reports and engineering recommendations.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with:
Photonic IC designers
High-speed electronics teams
Packaging engineers
University collaborators
Foundry and OSAT partners
Currently ADI collaborates with Universities , institutes, and multiple photonic technology suppliers.
Required Qualifications
PhD in:
Photonics
Optics
Electrical Engineering
Applied Physics
Related technical discipline
Hands-on experience with optical characterization.
Strong understanding of integrated photonics.
Experience with optical communication systems.
Proficiency in Python for automation and data analysis .
Demonstrated ability to independently bring up laboratory hardware and measurement systems.
Preferred Qualifications
Silicon photonics experience .
Microring resonator characterization.
TFLN device experience.
High-speed optical communications.
PIC packaging and fiber alignment experience.
Co-packaged optics (CPO) or datacenter optical interconnect experience.
Experience working with photonic foundries and academic collaborators.
Why This Role Matters
The successful candidate will play a central role in helping ADI establish internal photonics expertise and validate future optical connectivity architectures. The position offers a unique opportunity to work across devices, systems, packaging, controls, and advanced datacenter technologies while helping shape ADI's long-term photonics roadmap.
For positions requiring access to technical data, Analog Devices, Inc. may have to obtain export licensing approval from the U.S. Department of Commerce - Bureau of Industry and Security and/or the U.S. Department of State - Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. As such, applicants for this position – except US Citizens, US Permanent Residents, and protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) – may have to go through an export licensing review process.
Analog Devices is an equal opportunity employer. We foster a culture where everyone has an opportunity to succeed regardless of their race, color, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, social or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, pregnancy, parental status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, union membership, and political affiliation, or any other legally protected group.
EEO is the Law: Notice of Applicant Rights Under the Law .
Job Req Type: ExperiencedRequired Travel: Yes, 10% of the time
Shift Type: 1st Shift/Days The expected wage range for a new hire into this position is $131,285 to $190,108.
Actual wage offered may vary depending on work location , experience, education, training, external market data, internal pay equity, or other bona fide factors.
This position qualifies for a discretionary performance-based bonus which is based on personal and company factors.
This position includes medical, vision and dental coverage, 401k, paid vacation, holidays, and sick time , and other benefits.
About Analog Devices
Analog Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADI ) is a global semiconductor leader that bridges the physical and digital worlds to enable breakthroughs at the Intelligent Edge. ADI combines analog, digital, AI, and software technologies into solutions that combat climate change, reliably connect humans and the world, and help drive advancements in automation and robotics, mobility, healthcare, energy and data centers. With revenue of more than $11 billion in FY25, ADI ensures today's innovators stay Ahead of What's Possible. Learn more at www.analog.com and on LinkedIn and X .
Analog Devices is building new capabilities in integrated photonics, optical communications, co-packaged optics (CPO), near-packaged optics (NPO), and advanced optical control systems. We are investing in both internal laboratory capability and external collaborations with leading universities, foundries, and research institutions. Our Wilmington photonics lab is now operational and supporting multiple demonstrator programs spanning silicon photonics, microring modulators, and next-generation optical interconnect technologies.
We are looking for a hands-on engineer who enjoys building systems, solving difficult measurement challenges, and working at the intersection of photonics, electronics, packaging, and control.
Key Responsibilities
Photonics System Bring-Up & Characterization
Lead characterization of photonic demonstrator platforms.
Develop and execute optical, electrical, thermal, and system-level test plans.
Perform measurements including:
Optical spectrum analysis
High-speed modulation testing
BER characterization
Thermal tuning and resonance characterization
Optoelectronic Control-loop validation
Eye diagram and signal integrity analysis
Die and wafer level measurements
Correlate laboratory results to system-level optical interconnect requirements.
Laboratory Ownership
Own day-to-day operation of the Wilmington photonics laboratory.
Specify, commission, maintain , and calibrate laboratory equipment.
Develop laboratory procedures and characterization methodologies.
Support future lab capability expansion and equipment procurement.
Automation & Data Analysis
Develop Python-based automation frameworks.
Create repeatable characterization workflows.
Analyze large measurement datasets.
Generate technical reports and engineering recommendations.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with:
Photonic IC designers
High-speed electronics teams
Packaging engineers
University collaborators
Foundry and OSAT partners
Currently ADI collaborates with Universities , institutes, and multiple photonic technology suppliers.
Required Qualifications
PhD in:
Photonics
Optics
Electrical Engineering
Applied Physics
Related technical discipline
Hands-on experience with optical characterization.
Strong understanding of integrated photonics.
Experience with optical communication systems.
Proficiency in Python for automation and data analysis .
Demonstrated ability to independently bring up laboratory hardware and measurement systems.
Preferred Qualifications
Silicon photonics experience .
Microring resonator characterization.
TFLN device experience.
High-speed optical communications.
PIC packaging and fiber alignment experience.
Co-packaged optics (CPO) or datacenter optical interconnect experience.
Experience working with photonic foundries and academic collaborators.
Why This Role Matters
The successful candidate will play a central role in helping ADI establish internal photonics expertise and validate future optical connectivity architectures. The position offers a unique opportunity to work across devices, systems, packaging, controls, and advanced datacenter technologies while helping shape ADI's long-term photonics roadmap.
For positions requiring access to technical data, Analog Devices, Inc. may have to obtain export licensing approval from the U.S. Department of Commerce - Bureau of Industry and Security and/or the U.S. Department of State - Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. As such, applicants for this position – except US Citizens, US Permanent Residents, and protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) – may have to go through an export licensing review process.
Analog Devices is an equal opportunity employer. We foster a culture where everyone has an opportunity to succeed regardless of their race, color, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, social or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, pregnancy, parental status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, union membership, and political affiliation, or any other legally protected group.
EEO is the Law: Notice of Applicant Rights Under the Law .
Job Req Type: ExperiencedRequired Travel: Yes, 10% of the time
Shift Type: 1st Shift/Days The expected wage range for a new hire into this position is $131,285 to $190,108.
Actual wage offered may vary depending on work location , experience, education, training, external market data, internal pay equity, or other bona fide factors.
This position qualifies for a discretionary performance-based bonus which is based on personal and company factors.
This position includes medical, vision and dental coverage, 401k, paid vacation, holidays, and sick time , and other benefits.
See All 9 Photonics Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts
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Find Photonics Engineer JobsPhotonics Engineer Jobs by City in Massachusetts
Where Massachusetts roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Photonics Engineer Job Market in Massachusetts
A snapshot from current Massachusetts openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Electronics & Hardware
What Massachusetts Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in photonics engineer jobs across Massachusetts.
- Bachelor's or master's degree in photonics, optics, electrical engineering, or physics
- Hands-on experience with laser systems, fiber optics, or optical component design
- Proficiency with optical design software such as Zemax, CODE V, or LightTools
- Familiarity with clean room fabrication, thin-film deposition, or photonic device testing
- Experience supporting defense or aerospace programs and working with ITAR-controlled hardware
- Strong background in optical characterization, metrology, and laboratory measurement techniques
Photonics Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a photonics engineer in Massachusetts?
Photonics engineering in Massachusetts does not require a state-issued license, but most employers expect at minimum a bachelor's degree in optics, electrical engineering, applied physics, or a closely related field. Candidates with graduate degrees are strongly preferred for research and defense roles. Practical laboratory skills, optical design software experience, and familiarity with ITAR compliance are frequently required by Massachusetts employers in defense and biomedical sectors.
How much do photonics engineers make in Massachusetts?
Photonics engineers in Massachusetts earn a median of about $138,230 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $95,090 for the lowest 10% to over $215,290 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire photonics engineers in Massachusetts?
Employers hiring photonics engineers in Massachusetts right now include Hyperlight, MIT Lincoln Laboratory, and Lightmatter, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. Massachusetts's dense cluster of defense contractors, biomedical device makers, and university-affiliated research labs creates steady demand across experience levels throughout the year.
Which Massachusetts cities have the most photonics engineer jobs?
Cambridge, Boston, and Lexington consistently lead for photonics engineer openings in Massachusetts. Boston anchors demand through its research hospitals, universities, and biomedical companies, while the Route 128 and Lowell corridors concentrate defense and semiconductor photonics employers, making suburban postings in those areas a significant share of total listings.
Are there remote photonics engineer jobs in Massachusetts?
Yes, but they're rare. Most photonics engineering work requires hands-on laboratory access, clean room environments, or secure defense facilities that cannot be replicated remotely. About 50% of photonics engineer openings tied to Massachusetts are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, with the remote fraction concentrated in modeling, simulation, and optical systems analysis roles.
How can I get hired as a photonics engineer in Massachusetts with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying to co-op or new-graduate programs at Massachusetts defense and photonics firms, where companies like Raytheon Technologies and MIT Lincoln Laboratory regularly bring on junior engineers with strong academic project portfolios. Roles titled optical technician, junior optical engineer, or photonics lab associate are common stepping stones. Building experience with Zemax and completing a capstone or thesis project on a laser or fiber system gives candidates a measurable edge in screening.
Where can I find and apply to photonics engineer jobs in Massachusetts?
You can find and apply to photonics engineer jobs in Massachusetts on Migrate Mate, which lists current Massachusetts openings updated regularly. Search the listings to find roles that match your experience and specialization, then apply directly to the employer through the listing.
See All 9 Photonics Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts
Find roles in Massachusetts that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Photonics Engineer Jobs