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Laser Optics Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA · On-site

$140 - $210/hr

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)

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA · On-site

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)

Actalent

Software Engineer

Jessup, MD · On-site

Apply system‑level thinking to ensure seamless integration across mechanical, electrical, laser/optics, firmware, and software disciplines. * Collaborate closely with cross‑functional engineering ...

Actalent

Software Engineer

Jessup, MD · On-site

Apply system‑level thinking to ensure seamless integration across mechanical, electrical, laser/optics, firmware, and software disciplines. * Collaborate closely with cross‑functional engineering ...

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA

$80K - $145K/yr

Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based optical communications laser terminals including optical inter-satellite links (OISL) and direct to ...

Fibertek, Inc

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

Job Title Optical Communication Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary ... Knowledge of laser theory and industry best practices associated with fiber laser systems including ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Build and integrate EOIR prototype subsystems, including cameras, optics, and lasers. * Perform ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field * 10+ years of experience in ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

$130K - $168K/yr

Build and integrate EOIR prototype subsystems, including cameras, optics, and lasers. * Perform ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field * 10+ years of experience in ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Build and integrate EOIR prototype subsystems, including cameras, optics, and lasers. * Perform ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field * 10+ years of experience in ...

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All JobsLaser Optics Engineer JobsLaser Optics Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Laser Optics Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$45.9K

$127K

$212.9K

How much do laser optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser optics engineer in Washington, DC is $126,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,100.00 and $182,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laser optics engineer?

A Laser Optics Engineer designs, develops, and optimizes optical systems that use lasers for applications in industries like telecommunications, manufacturing, medical devices, and defense. They work with optical components such as lenses, mirrors, and fiber optics to ensure precise laser performance. Responsibilities include simulation, testing, and troubleshooting optical systems. They often collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers to integrate laser technology into complex systems.

What does a laser optics engineer do?

Laser Optics Engineers typically spend their days designing and developing laser systems, conducting simulations and experiments in laboratory settings, and troubleshooting optical performance issues. They collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers and manufacturing staff, to ensure that system requirements are met and components are integrated successfully. Additionally, they document test results, refine designs based on feedback or research findings, and may participate in meetings with clients or internal stakeholders. This blend of design, hands-on experimentation, and teamwork creates a dynamic and stimulating work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laser optics engineer?

A Laser Optics Engineer typically needs a background in physics or engineering, with expertise in laser systems, optical design, and photonics. Familiarity with simulation and design software (such as Zemax or LightTools), and experience using laboratory measurement equipment, are often required, along with certifications in optics or laser safety being advantageous. Strong problem-solving ability, teamwork, and effective communication skills are crucial in this collaborative, multidisciplinary field. These competencies ensure precise design, troubleshooting, and integration of advanced optical systems in real-world applications.

What are popular job titles related to Laser Optics Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Laser Optics Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laser Optics Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Optics Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Laser Optics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Optics Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,959 per year, or $61 per hour.

Optics Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 75 rated research

Job description

Description
Do you love to apply complex scientific concepts to real world applications?
Are you searching for meaningful work in remote sensing?
Are you hoping to join a dynamic and innovative team?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
We are seeking a motivated experienced scientist or engineer to help us advance our work in remote sensing, laser systems and novel EO/IR instrumentation. As a member of the Optics and Photonics Group, your work will help inform decision makers in the defense community to solve our nation's critical challenges. You will contribute to system modeling and model validation through real world data collection, data analysis and prototype system development. You will be joining a hardworking team of engineers and scientists who enjoy working hands-on in the lab and in the field. We are passionate about applying optics and photonics technology to high-impact next-generation applications in sensing, communications, kinetic effects and non-kinetic warfare. Our team is committed to fostering a welcoming atmosphere as we work across a multi faceted set of skillsets and backgrounds to solve complex challenges.
As an experienced optics engineer...
  • Your primary responsibilities will include identifying and executing technical courses of action to meet mission requirements. This may include modeling, data analysis, hardware development, and laboratory and field experimentation.
  • You will mentor and train other staff members to continue building world class expertise.
  • You will simulate and test EO/IR sensors and systems, performing radiometric analyses in real world settings.
  • You will work with systems engineers across the lab to understand mission requirements and research ways to improve them.
  • You will make an impact by detailing work into formal and informal technical reports, including presentations, conference proceedings, and journal articles.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a B.S. or M.S. degree in electrical engineering, physics, optics, or a related field.
  • Have a minimum of 5 years experience in the modeling/simulation, development, and characterization of EO/IR sensors and systems.
  • Possess strong teaming skills and have demonstrated experience working across multidisciplinary teams to solve complex problems.
  • Have strong oral and written communication skills and experience communicating key information to stakeholders through formal briefings and reports.
  • Hold an active Top Secret security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have a Ph.D. in electrical engineering, physics, optics or a related field.
  • Have 10+ years of experience in the modeling/simulation, development, and characterization of EO/IR sensors and systems.
  • Have experience in optical alignment, laser diagnostics and system prototyping.
  • Have developed and fielded EO/IR sensors and systems
  • Have field test experience and an interest in travel.
  • Have modeling and simulation experience in MODTRAN.
  • Have experience in applied spectroscopy, laser propagation modeling and applications for remote sensing.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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