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Junior Optical Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA

Mentor and guide junior optical engineers and physicists * Create a culture of technical rigor, accountability, and momentum * Coordinate with systems, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams

Pae

DARPA Junior Engineer

Arlington, VA

The Junior Engineer will work on high-visibility, high-dollar national security programs focused on ... Support design, analysis, and evaluation of sensor systems (RF, optical, mechanical, embedded, or ...

Amentum

DARPA Junior Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Junior Engineer will work on high-visibility, high-dollar national security programs focused on ... Support design, analysis, and evaluation of sensor systems (RF, optical, mechanical, embedded, or ...

Omitron, Inc.

Junior Orbital Analyst

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

We are the developer and sole maintainer of the Astrodynamics Support Workstation (ASW), the ... Basic understanding of space surveillance and tracking systems, such as radar and optical sensors ...

Omitron, Inc.

Junior Orbital Analyst

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

We are the developer and sole maintainer of the Astrodynamics Support Workstation (ASW), the ... Basic understanding of space surveillance and tracking systems, such as radar and optical sensors ...

NSS

Fiber Laser Engineer / Technician

Herndon, VA

Align optical components and fiber paths with minimal supervision * Support early-stage prototype ... Informally mentor junior technicians or new team members through example and guidance Minimum ...

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Junior Optical Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$33.2K

$71.2K

$108.6K

How much do junior optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior optical engineer in Virginia is $71,184.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $79,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Junior Optical Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Optical Engineer, you need a solid background in optics, physics, and mathematics, often supported by a bachelor's degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or CODE V), basic laboratory equipment, and CAD tools is commonly expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you work efficiently within engineering teams and present findings clearly. These skills ensure precise design, troubleshooting, and collaborative project development in this technically demanding role.

What are some typical projects or tasks a Junior Optical Engineer might work on?

As a Junior Optical Engineer, you may assist in designing, testing, and evaluating optical systems such as lenses, imaging devices, or sensors under the supervision of senior engineers. Your responsibilities often include running simulations, performing hands-on experiments in the lab, analyzing data, and contributing to technical reports. You’ll also collaborate closely with colleagues in mechanical and electrical engineering to integrate optical components into larger systems. This role often provides opportunities to learn from mentors and gain hands-on experience with real-world applications, which is valuable for long-term career growth in the optical engineering field.

What is a Junior Optical Engineer job?

A Junior Optical Engineer is an entry-level engineering professional specializing in optical systems, components, and technologies. They assist in designing, testing, and optimizing optical devices such as lenses, lasers, and imaging systems. Their responsibilities may include conducting experiments, analyzing data, and supporting senior engineers in research and development. Strong analytical skills, knowledge of optics principles, and proficiency with simulation tools are often required. This role provides foundational experience for growing into more advanced optical engineering positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Junior Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Junior Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Junior Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Junior Optical Engineer job openings:
Junior Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Optical Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 8% Temporary, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,184 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

Senior Solid State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead

TalentRemedy

Herndon, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Our client is seeking a Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead to drive the architecture, development, and delivery of advanced solid-state laser systems for airborne and space-based government aerospace programs. This individual will serve as both a deep technical authority and a program catalyst - leading laser system design while motivating cross-functional teams to execute on aggressive technical milestones. The ideal candidate combines strong theoretical and modeling expertise with demonstrated experience pushing complex hardware programs from concept through integration and qualification.

Key Responsibilities Technical Leadership Architect and lead development of advanced solid-state laser systems including: Oscillators (linear and ring) MOPA (Master Oscillator Power Amplifier) architectures OPO/OPA systems Single-frequency / narrow-linewidth lasers Frequency conversion stages (SHG, THG, nonlinear mixing) Own cavity design, gain modeling, thermal analysis, and system energetics Lead nonlinear optics development and frequency conversion optimization Guide LIDAR transmitter laser development for airborne and space platforms Perform system-level optical modeling and tolerance analysis (Zemax) Ensure performance, reliability, and environmental robustness Program Execution & Team Leadership Serve as technical lead for laser subsystem programs Translate high-level requirements into executable technical plans Drive design reviews, risk assessments, and milestone execution Identify technical risks early and develop mitigation strategies Mentor and guide junior optical engineers and physicists Create a culture of technical rigor, accountability, and momentum Coordinate with systems, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams Support customer interactions and government technical reviews Required Qualifications M.S. or Ph.D. in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field 5+ years of experience in solid-state laser development (2-8+ years post-graduate experience depending on degree) Demonstrated experience leading technical efforts or small engineering teams Demonstrated deep expertise in at least one of the following areas: Laser resonator stability and design Gain media physics and thermal management Nonlinear optics and frequency conversion Single longitudinal mode and narrow-linewidth operation Experience designing and modeling: High peak power or high pulse energy systems MOPA systems Nonlinear frequency conversion, OPO/OPA architectures Strong proficiency with optical modeling tools (e.g

Zemax) Experience delivering hardware into airborne or space environments preferred U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a security clearance Preferred Qualifications Experience developing laser systems for LIDAR applications Diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) laser expertise Experience with environmental qualification (e.g. thermal, vibration, vacuum) Radiation effects awareness for space-based systems Experience working on DoD or aerospace prime contracts Track record of taking laser systems from concept to flight qualification Leadership Profile We're Seeking Naturally assumes ownership of technical outcomes Drives momentum - does not wait for direction Communicates clearly with engineers, management, and customers Balances deep physics rigor with practical program execution Mentors junior staff and raises overall team capability Comfortable operating in high-visibility, mission-critical programs

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