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Photonics Engineer Jobs

Engineers who design and optimise the optical components that underpin quantum computing systems. A critical role in the development of scalable quantum technologies.

Open roles
6
Salary range
£46k – £72k
Hiring companies
3
View 6 live roles → Get an alert

Photonics Engineers in the quantum computing sector play a pivotal role in the development and optimisation of optical components and systems. These engineers work at the intersection of quantum mechanics and photonics, focusing on the design, fabrication, and testing of photonic devices that are essential for quantum information processing. They collaborate with quantum physicists, materials scientists, and electrical engineers to advance the field, often working in research-heavy startups, scaleups, and academic institutions.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Photonics Engineer

A typical week is split between design, simulation, and experimental work, with a focus on iterative testing and optimisation.

  1. 01
    Design and simulate photonic circuits using specialised software.
  2. 02
    Fabricate and test photonic devices in a cleanroom environment.
  3. 03
    Analyse experimental data and refine designs based on results.
  4. 04
    Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate photonic components into quantum systems.
  5. 05
    Document findings and prepare reports for project stakeholders.
  6. 06
    Attend research meetings and stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.
Salary on the board

£46k – £72k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 3 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
3% of listings advertise a salary — up from 0% the year before.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 5 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Photonics
80%
Python
40%
Integrated Optics
20%
Photonic Circuit Characterization
20%
Experimental Control
20%
Data Acquisition
20%
Optical Measurement
20%
Quantum Optics
20%
Electro-Optic Tuning
20%
Thermo-Optic Tuning
20%
Optics
20%
Optical Simulation
20%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for photonics engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Photonics Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the design and testing of photonic components, working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.

  2. Level 2

    Photonics Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Take ownership of specific photonic device designs, lead small projects, and contribute to the development of new technologies.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Photonics Engineer

    5–10 yrs

    Manage complex projects, mentor junior engineers, and drive innovation in photonic technologies for quantum computing.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Photonics Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Lead strategic initiatives, collaborate with leading researchers, and influence the direction of quantum photonics research and development.

Pathway

How to become a Photonics Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Academic Foundation

    Gain a strong foundation in physics, optics, and materials science through a relevant degree programme.

  2. 2

    Specialised Training

    Pursue advanced courses or a master’s degree in quantum photonics or a related field.

  3. 3

    Research Experience

    Engage in research projects, either in academia or industry, to develop practical skills and contribute to the field.

  4. 4

    Industry Entry

    Join a quantum computing company or research institution as a Junior Photonics Engineer, gaining hands-on experience.

  5. 5

    Professional Development

    Advance to more senior roles by taking on leadership responsibilities and contributing to significant projects.

  6. 6

    Thought Leadership

    Become a recognised expert in the field, influencing industry standards and driving innovation in quantum photonics.

Live jobs

6 live roles

PsiQuantum logo

Integrated Photonics Engineer

Design and conduct experiments to characterize advanced integrated photonic circuits for quantum computing systems. Develop automated test workflows, analyze optical device performance, and collaborate with design teams to refine photonic components such as directional couplers, interferometers, and electro-optic modulators. Work within a high-tech R&D environment focused on scaling fault-tolerant quantum computers using silicon photonics.

PsiQuantum Runcorn, WA7 1UP, United Kingdom £45,000 – £55,000 pa
On-site Permanent
PsiQuantum logo

Senior Photonics Engineer, Optical Interfaces

Develops ultra-low-loss optical interface solutions between dissimilar waveguiding platforms using photonic device design, simulation, and experimental validation. Focuses on mode conversion and coupling for scalable quantum computing systems. Works closely with internal teams and external partners to mature practical, manufacturable solutions.

PsiQuantum Runcorn, WA7 1UP, United Kingdom £64,000 – £76,500 pa
On-site Permanent
Infleqtion logo

Frequency Comb Photonics Engineer

This role involves hands-on development, testing, and optimisation of optical frequency comb systems—including micro-combs and photonic integrated circuits—for quantum technology applications. The engineer will characterise photonic components, build optical test setups, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate comb technologies into quantum systems for precision timing, sensing, and laser stabilisation. Work is based in Kidlington with some presence at Harwell and hybrid flexibility.

Infleqtion Kidlington, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent
Oxford Ionics logo

Photonic Layout Engineer

Design and layout photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for quantum processor units, integrating photonic components into multi-layer chips with on-chip light delivery. Collaborate with scientists and engineers to define design rules, produce tape-out-ready layout files using Python-based tools, and verify layouts through DRC and LVS. Contribute to custom Process Design Kits and document mask design processes for fabrication in commercial foundries.

Oxford Ionics Oxford, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
Oxford Ionics logo

Photonic Layout Engineer

This role involves designing and laying out photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for quantum processor units (QPUs) using Python-based tools. The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate photonic components into multi-layer chips, perform layout verification (DRC/LVS), and contribute to custom Process Design Kits (PDKs) for tape-out in commercial foundries. The work directly supports scaling trapped-ion quantum systems through on-chip photonics.

Oxford Ionics Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
PsiQuantum logo

Mechanical Design Engineer – Photonic Hardware

This role involves designing precision mechanical and thermal systems for photonic quantum computing hardware, focusing on robustness, manufacturability, and performance in controlled environments. The engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams to translate system requirements into hardware solutions, conduct simulation and validation, and support prototyping and supplier collaboration. The position is based at Daresbury and supports the development of scalable, fault-tolerant quantum systems.

PsiQuantum Runcorn, WA7 1UP, United Kingdom £50,000 – £56,000 pa
On-site Permanent
Top hirers

Companies hiring photonics engineers

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Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

Oxford

Location
2 open
FAQs

Common questions

  • Essential skills include a strong background in physics and optics, proficiency in simulation software, and experience with cleanroom fabrication techniques.

  • While a PhD is not always required, it can be highly beneficial for advanced research roles and leadership positions in the field.

  • Photonics Engineers often work in cleanroom facilities, research labs, and academic institutions, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

  • Salary ranges can vary widely based on experience and location. For more detailed information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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