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Ocean Optics Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Aerospace and Ocean Engineering Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories: Engineering, Research ... optical diagnostics methods; augmenting experimental data with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD ...

From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries ... Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ...

... and electro-optical domains. This includes the design and development of novel sensors and advanced information processing techniques from ideation to prototype implementations. The Ocean ...

... and electro-optical domains. This includes the design and development of novel sensors and advanced information processing techniques from ideation to prototype implementations. The Ocean ...

... and electro-optical domains. This includes the design and development of novel sensors and advanced information processing techniques from ideation to prototype implementations. The Ocean ...

The backbone of the Internet is a series of high-tech subsea fiber optic cables deployed throughout ... Interfaces with all Ocean Operations functional groups including cable engineering, cable jointing ...

The backbone of the Internet is a series of high-tech subsea fiber optic cables deployed throughout ... Interfaces with all Ocean Operations functional groups including cable engineering, cable jointing ...

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Ocean Optics information

What is ocean optics?

Ocean optics is the study of how light interacts with the ocean and its constituents, such as water molecules, dissolved substances, and particles. This field examines how light is absorbed, scattered, and transmitted in marine environments, which helps in understanding ocean color, water quality, and biological processes. Ocean optics is crucial for remote sensing, assessing ecosystem health, and monitoring climate change impacts. Scientists in this field use specialized instruments and models to analyze optical properties both in situ and via satellite observations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in ocean optics research?

Professionals in ocean optics often encounter challenges such as collecting accurate data in dynamic and sometimes harsh marine environments, as well as calibrating instruments to account for varying light conditions and water properties. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including marine biologists, engineers, and data scientists—is essential to interpret complex optical measurements. Additionally, processing large datasets and staying current with evolving remote sensing technologies are crucial for success in this field.

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

To excel as an Ocean Optics Specialist, you generally need a background in oceanography, physics, or environmental science, with expertise in light propagation and water properties. Familiarity with spectroradiometers, remote sensing systems, data analysis software (like MATLAB or Python), and relevant certifications in scientific diving or instrumentation are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in interpreting data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are essential for accurately assessing oceanic conditions, advancing research, and supporting environmental monitoring initiatives.

What is the difference between Ocean Optics vs Spectroscopy Technician?

AspectOcean OpticsSpectroscopy Technician
Required CredentialsDegree in optics, physics, or related field; experience with optical instrumentsDegree in chemistry, physics, or related; familiarity with spectroscopy equipment
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, manufacturing settingsLaboratories, industrial plants, research institutions
Industry UsageOptical sensing, scientific research, environmental monitoringMaterial analysis, quality control, scientific research

Ocean Optics professionals focus on developing and applying optical sensing devices, while Spectroscopy Technicians operate and maintain spectroscopy equipment for analysis. Both roles require technical knowledge of optical systems and work in laboratory or industrial environments, but Ocean Optics roles are more product development-oriented, whereas Spectroscopy Technicians focus on data collection and instrument operation.

Infographic showing various Ocean Optics job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Program Control Analyst Ocean Operations (6237)

SubCom

Williamsburg, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


SubCom rating

4.5

Company rating: 4.5 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

447th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Are you looking for an opportunity with plenty of growth potential? Do you enjoy working in an exciting, fast-paced, collaborative environment? Are you interested in working with the world’s most innovative companies to create a more connected world? 

Connecting Continents. Impacting Communities. 

The backbone of the Internet is a series of high-tech subsea fiber optic cables deployed throughout the globe - SubCom has deployed over 50% of them. Our employees ensure data communications networks are engineered, manufactured, deployed to the highest standards, enabling faster and more reliable connectivity to communities worldwide. Every member of the SubCom team plays a role in an end-to-end process that is critical to enterprises, governments, big cities, and rural towns. 

We encourage, expect, and value creativity, thoughtful risk taking, openness to change, and diverse perspectives. Whether you’re a seasoned applicant seeking a new and exciting challenge, or you’re new to the workforce and looking for a flexible, rewarding, and fast-paced position with an innovative and stable organization (since 1953), SubCom has opportunities to advance your career. 

Position Overview 

The Program Control Analyst supports Ocean Operations by managing cost and schedule performance in alignment with Earned Value Management System (EVMS) practices and government contracting requirements. This role provides financial reporting, baseline management, contract compliance support, and program forecasting. 

Responsibilities 

  • Support cost and schedule integration, manpower forecasts, and Estimates at Complete (EAC).
  • Prepare financial reports reflecting EVMS performance and staffing. 
  • Support program control activities with EVMS reporting requirements. 
  • Ensure compliance with internal controls and government contracting requirements including FAR/DFAR knowledge. 
  • Lead or support proposal activities, including solicitation analysis and preparation of terms and conditions. 
  • Manage program baselines, identify risks and opportunities, and support program managers with control account metrics. 

Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, Economics, or related field. 
  • Experience working in a government contracting environment with familiarity in EVMS. 
  • Knowledge of U.S. government acquisition, FAR/DFAR regulations, and contracting methods. 
  • Experience with Oracle, SAP, RPlan, Deltek Cobra, or similar tools. 
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities. 
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial analysis tools. 

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the ongoing needs of the organization. 

Candidates for positions with SubCom must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Employment eligibility verification will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. 

Our selection procedure is based on local, state and federal law.

Please be sure to attach a resume to your application. We are not able to consider applications without a resume. 

BENEFITS 

SubCom offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to: competitive salaries, medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance coverages, FSA, HSA, generous vacation, paid sick leave, paid parental leave, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, adoption assistance, and a 401(k) plan with generous company match. Additionally, some positions may be eligible for shift differential. 

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL EMPLOYER OPPORTUNITY 

SubCom is committed to providing a work environment that prohibits discrimination based on age, color, disability, ethnicity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristics protected by applicable law or regulation. 

SubCom engineers, manufactures, and installs subsea fiber optic data cables - the unsung heroes of global communication. With an unrelenting focus on quality, reliability, and value, SubCom offers flexible end-to-end building blocks for the high-tech networks that are the backbone of the world's digital infrastructure. While the company's origins date back to the mid-19th century, SubCom has deployed enough cable to circle the equator more than 25 times since its entry into the communications industry in 1955.

SUBCOM’S CORE VALUES 

Quality   -   Accountability   -   Teamwork   -   Innovation 


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