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Infrared Imaging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) * EOIR sensors * Tactical lasers, Class 1-4 * Optical boresight and ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

$130K - $168K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) * EOIR sensors * Tactical lasers, Class 1-4 * Optical boresight and ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) * EOIR sensors * Tactical lasers, Class 1-4 * Optical boresight and ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

$164K - $213K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) * EOIR sensors * Tactical lasers, Class 1-4 * Optical boresight and ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) * EOIR sensors * Tactical lasers, Class 1-4 * Optical boresight and ...

Compal USA

Sr. Global Optics Process Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$112K - $145K/yr

The Sr. Global Optics Process Engineer candidate will lead the development of optical test and calibration systems for high volume manufacturing of infrared imaging cameras for ADAS applications.

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) * EOIR sensors * Tactical lasers, Class 1-4 * Optical boresight and ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) * EOIR sensors * Tactical lasers, Class 1-4 * Optical boresight and ...

Anduril Industries

Head of Growth, Imaging

Waltham, MA · On-site

$220K - $292K/yr

Deep expertise in imaging technologies such as infrared, electro-optical, image processing, missile tracking, or other relevant technologies. * A proven leader that effectively engages and ...

Crabapple Roofing

Commercial Roof Inspector

Doraville, GA · On-site

$25 - $26/hr

Familiarity with roofing inspection tools and software (e.g., drones, infrared imaging, moisture scanners) * Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical documents * Excellent ...

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Infrared Imaging information

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How much do infrared imaging jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for infrared imaging in the United States is $23.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Infrared Imaging vs Thermography Technician?

AspectInfrared ImagingThermography Technician
CertificationsOften requires infrared imaging certificationTypically holds thermography certification (e.g., Level I or II)
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, electrical, building inspectionsBuilding diagnostics, electrical, mechanical systems
Industry UsageManufacturing, maintenance, securityBuilding inspection, electrical troubleshooting
Job FocusCapturing and analyzing infrared imagesPerforming thermographic inspections and reporting

Infrared Imaging and Thermography Technician roles overlap significantly, especially in certifications and work environments. Infrared Imaging generally refers to the broader process of capturing infrared images, while Thermography Technicians focus on conducting inspections and diagnostics using thermographic equipment. Both roles are essential in industries like building maintenance and electrical troubleshooting, often requiring similar skills and certifications.

What types of projects or industries commonly employ professionals in infrared imaging, and how does this influence day-to-day work?

Infrared imaging professionals are often employed in industries such as electrical and mechanical engineering, building inspections, medical diagnostics, and defense. The diversity of these fields means your day-to-day tasks may range from conducting thermal inspections of equipment to analyzing medical imaging data or supporting research and development projects. Collaboration with engineers, healthcare professionals, or safety teams is common, and adapting to various industry standards and protocols is a key part of the role. This variety offers a dynamic work environment and the opportunity to develop specialized expertise in areas of interest.

What is infrared imaging?

Infrared imaging is a technology that uses infrared radiation to create images of objects, often revealing temperature differences and features not visible to the naked eye. It is commonly used in fields like medicine, electrical inspections, building diagnostics, and surveillance to detect heat patterns. Infrared cameras pick up thermal energy emitted by objects, allowing users to visualize heat distribution and identify issues such as energy leaks, overheating components, or medical conditions. This non-invasive technique is valuable for preventive maintenance, safety, and research.

What does infrared imaging do?

Infrared imaging in a job context involves using specialized cameras to detect and visualize heat emitted by objects or environments. Infrared imaging technicians or specialists operate these systems for applications such as building inspections, electrical maintenance, or security, often requiring knowledge of thermal analysis and calibration tools.

How long does it take to become an infrared imaging thermographer?

Becoming an infrared imaging thermographer typically requires completing a certified training program, which can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the depth of instruction. Many thermographers also pursue industry certifications, such as those from the Infrared Training Center (ITC), which may require additional coursework and hands-on experience before certification is awarded.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an infrared imaging specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Infrared Imaging Specialist, you need expertise in thermography, strong analytical skills, and a background in engineering, physics, or a related field—often supported by relevant certifications such as Level I/II Thermography. Familiarity with infrared cameras, thermal imaging software, and report generation systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills that help you interpret data accurately and relay findings to clients or teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring precise diagnostics, maintaining safety standards, and providing valuable insights across industries like electrical, mechanical, and building inspections.
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What states have the most Infrared Imaging jobs? States with the most job openings for Infrared Imaging jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Infrared Imaging jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Infrared Imaging jobs are:
Infrared Imaging jobs near you
Infographic showing various Infrared Imaging job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $47,834 per year, or $23 per hour.

Principal Optical Engineer

QinetiQ US

Lorton, VA • On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Company Overview
We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).
QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.
Why Join QinetiQ US?
If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.
Position Overview
QinetiQ US is looking for a Principal Optical Engineer experienced in electro-optic/ infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor optical design, laboratory optical characterization, and prototype integration with a willingness to learn new skills to join our team.
In this role you will contribute directly to products and systems ensuring our Warfighters have overmatch against our adversaries and our Homeland is secure. You'll support programs to provide our customers with capabilities like long-range optics for scout surveillance and fires support, body-worn EOIR sensors, fire control, and more- you'll help provide the sensing capability that enables the 'observe' stage of the OODA (observe, orient, decide, act) loop.
You will work with Key technologies, including:
  • Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR)
  • EOIR sensors
  • Tactical lasers, Class 1-4
  • Optical boresight and stabilization

Success in this role is defined as delivering robust EOIR optical designs, guiding prototype integration, and collaborating effectively across engineering disciplines to transition systems into production.
Responsibilities
Lead the design and development of multi-band multi-aperture EOIR imaging sensor, lens, and laser subassemblies for next-generation defense systems. Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support the entire product life cycle, from conceptualization, prototyping, validation, manufacturing, fielding, to sustainment. This role will have responsibility in the following areas:
  • Requirements Analysis and Specification Definition
    • Decompose customer system requirements and performance specifications and define opto-mechanical, imaging sensor, and display specifications.
    • Perform DRI (detection, recognition, identification) range analysis of multi-band electro-optical/ infrared (EOIR) systems.
  • Imaging Sensor Optical Design
    • Generate baseline reference optical designs in Zemax or similar software for further design and fabrication by external vendors.
    • Simulate laser parameters with Zemax or relevant software.
    • Select appropriate components including, sensors, displays, optical stabilization systems, and lenses, and lasers to meet program requirements.
    • Interpret stray light analysis and generate specific design recommendations for baffles, coatings, stops, etc., to minimize stray light in systems.
  • Laboratory Optical Characterization
    • Maintain and utilize an optical laboratory to support development, testing, and prototyping efforts, including equipment such as integrating spheres, collimators, optical alignment stations for centration and tip/tilt, and more.
    • Characterize performance of EOIR sensors, typically broadband focal plane array type.
    • Test and validate delivered optical assemblies to ensure compliance with specifications and requirements.
    • Design new tests and test stations and construct laboratory apparatus as needed to support program test and validation requirements.
  • Prototype Integration
    • Build and integrate EOIR prototype subsystems, including cameras, optics, and lasers.
    • Perform precise alignment and boresighting of optical components and sub-assemblies in multi-aperture multi-band and imaging and laser systems.
  • Transition to Manufacturing
    • Generate technical documentation and reports.
    • Provide optical subject matter expertise to program managers and manufacturing staff.
    • Assist in creating manufacturing work instructions.
    • Transition relevant fabrication or test benches from the prototyping to manufacturing environments.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field
  • 10+ years of experience in imaging and laser optical design, including:
    • Specifying EOIR and imaging sensor optical components
    • Modeling imaging sensor systems to predict system performance for detection, recognition, and identification range of objects
    • Designing and modeling lenses and other optical components in Zemax, CODE V, or other relevant industry-standard software packages
    • Integrating imaging sensors, optical assemblies, and lasers into optical benches and system prototypes
    • Manipulating visible and invisible pulsed and continuous laser sources
    • Working in laboratory environments including expertise with opto-mechanical assembly, alignment tools, optical bore sighting
  • Knowledgeable in techniques and specifications for Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and Fast Steering Mirrors (FSM)
  • Occasional (up 10%) travel to support project needs, including to QinetiQ sites, customer sites, military installations, and other locations
  • Must currently hold an Active DoD Secret or higher-level clearance #qinetiqclearedjob

Preferred Qualifications
  • Background working in the defense or aerospace industry
  • Experience modeling sensor systems in NVIPM (Night Vision Integrated Performance Model) or similar package
  • Ability to mentor junior optical engineers
  • Hyperspectral system design
  • Strong technical writing and presentation skills
  • Experience with laser designators, laser range finders, laser dazzlers, and other tactical laser systems, and methods of beam steering
  • Experience specifying displays, especially near-eye displays for systems such as sights, binoculars, and AR/VR systems
  • A solid knowledge of relevant optical component suppliers

Pay Transparency
The salary range for this role is $164,500- $213,500 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. QinetiQ US considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Company EEO Statement
Accessibility/Accommodation:
If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to or call Opt. 1 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.
QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.

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