Senior Photonics Engineer

Cambridge, MA, USFull-time$82k–$220k2026-11-03 → 2026-11-10

Core

Develop advanced photonic platforms for sensors, LiDAR, and quantum systems through modeling, design, and characterization.

Role type

Senior IC photonics engineer

Builds

Prototype sensors, systems, and technology platforms

Domain

Defense, space exploration, biomedical engineering

Required skills

Photonic component/system simulation, Microfabrication process knowledge, MATLAB/Mathematica, Programming, Data collection and reduction, Root cause analysis

Preferred skills

PhD in Physics/Optics/EE, Secret security clearance

Technologies

Lumerical, Rsoft, Tidy3D, MATLAB, Mathematica

Responsibilities

Develop and apply advanced design methods and theories, Plan and conduct hardware projects, Provide technical consultation and work leadership, Develop quantum/optical/photonic sensors, Apply quantitative analysis for problem solving, Contribute to technical reports and presentations

Seniority

Senior, hands-on IC

About draper

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.