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Electro Optical Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Electro Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a Electro-Optical (EO) Engineer to join Landmark AOS, SAIC's Prime SETA program in Chantilly, VA. Landmark AOS delivers critical Systems Engineering and Technical Advisory ...

Electro Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Electro-Optical (EO) Engineer to join Landmark AOS, SAIC's Prime SETA program in Chantilly, VA. Landmark AOS delivers critical Systems Engineering and ...

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Electro Optical information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electro optical engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as an Electro Optical Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and electrical engineering, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with optical design software (like Zemax or Code V), laser systems, and experience with laboratory equipment are commonly required, along with certifications in optics or photonics being advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities set top performers apart in this field. These skills ensure the precise design, testing, and implementation of complex electro-optical systems that are critical in industries such as defense, telecommunications, and medical devices.

What are some common challenges faced by electro optical engineers, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Electro Optical Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating complex optical systems with electronic components, managing signal interference, and ensuring system reliability in varying environmental conditions. These issues require strong problem-solving skills, cross-disciplinary collaboration with mechanical and electrical engineering teams, and rigorous testing protocols. Staying up-to-date with the latest simulation tools and industry standards can help in effectively addressing these challenges and delivering high-performance solutions.

What is the difference between Electro Optical vs Optical Engineer?

AspectElectro OpticalOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; knowledge of optics and electronicsBachelor's or higher in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related disciplines; focus on optics and photonics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, defense, aerospace, telecommunicationsResearch and development, manufacturing, telecommunications, healthcare, defense
Industry UsageDesign and testing of electro-optical systems, sensors, and devicesDesign, analysis, and development of optical systems and components

Electro Optical professionals focus on integrating electronic and optical systems, often working with sensors and devices that convert electrical signals into optical signals. Optical Engineers primarily work on the design and development of optical components and systems. While both roles require knowledge of optics, Electro Optical roles emphasize electronics integration, making them distinct yet overlapping fields.

What is an electro optical engineer?

Electro Optical engineers are professionals who work with systems and devices that combine electrical and optical (light-based) technologies. They design, develop, and test equipment such as lasers, cameras, fiber optics, sensors, and imaging systems. Their work is crucial in industries like defense, telecommunications, medical devices, and manufacturing, where precise control and manipulation of light are essential. Electro Optical engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to create cutting-edge technologies for imaging, communication, and measurement applications.
What job categories do people searching Electro Optical jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Electro Optical jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Electro Optical job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

$133K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


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Job description


SAIC is seeking a Electro-Optical (EO) Engineer to join Landmark AOS, SAIC's Prime SETA program in Chantilly, VA. Landmark AOS delivers critical Systems Engineering and Technical Advisory (SETA) expertise to the NRO's Ground Enterprise Directorate (GED)-the organization responsible for designing, acquiring, and integrating the nation's most advanced space and ground systems across the full mission lifecycle.
In this role, you will serve as a trusted technical advisor driving the development and modernization of next-generation EO GEOINT mission processing capabilities. You will collaborate closely with government leaders, development contractors, and mission partners to shape resilient, high-performance solutions that directly support national security priorities.
Key Responsibilities to include:
  • Advance EO resiliency initiatives by evaluating emerging technologies, identifying vulnerabilities, and guiding mission-enhancing solutions in partnership with IC stakeholders.
  • Maintain technical cognizance across a broad GEOINT mission processing portfolio, tracking baselines, schedules, dependencies, risks, and cost drivers to ensure program success.
  • Oversee Prime Contractor development efforts, providing technical insight and ensuring software development, integration, and testing activities align with government requirements and mission objectives.
  • Advise senior and mid-level government leadership on architectural decisions, investment strategies, acquisition priorities, and risk assessments shaping the future Ground Enterprise.
  • Develop and coordinate Concepts of Operations (CONOPS) for new capabilities, ensuring alignment across mission threads and stakeholder organizations.
  • Define enterprise, system, functional, performance, and interface requirements that guide the development of modern, scalable GEOINT processing applications.
  • Conduct performance assessments and deliver cost, schedule, and risk impact analyses for current and future Ground architecture implementations.
  • Evaluate vendor proposals and technical documentation, assessing design artifacts for alignment with mission needs, technical standards, and acquisition best practices.

Qualifications
Required Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree and 9+ years of relevant experience; Master's degree and 7+ years; PhD/JD and 4+ years. Relevant experience may be substituted in lieu of a degree.
  • Active Top Secret/SCI with Polygraph.
  • Experience with Electro-Optical systems, including tasking, command & control, collection, mission processing, or dissemination.
  • Knowledge or understanding of AI/ML advancements relevant to EO mission processing.
  • Domain knowledge in Ground Software, Space Development Programs, or Mission Operations.
  • Experience supporting requirements development and definition activities.
  • Strong organizational, time-management, and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information across diverse customer and corporate audiences.
  • Proficiency with the Microsoft Office tool suite.
  • Experience as an EO GEOINT Engineer or EO Thread Lead a PLUS !

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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