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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Associate, Electrical Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$62K - $115K/yr

... Optical Engineering * Knowledge of Code V and/or Zemax software tools In compliance with pay ... transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Colorado state, Hawaii, Illinois ...

Peraton

Image Scientist (Entry-level)

Springfield, VA

$80K - $128K/yr

US Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance and polygraph prior to starting. * BS/BA degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering (or other engineering), Optics ...

Peraton

Image Scientist (Entry-level)

Springfield, VA · On-site

$80K - $128K/yr

US Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance and polygraph prior to starting. * BS/BA degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering (or other engineering), Optics ...

Peraton

Image Scientist (Entry-level)

Springfield, VA · On-site

$80K - $128K/yr

US Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance and polygraph prior to starting. * BS/BA degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering (or other engineering), Optics ...

Entarian

Engineering Technician I/II

Stafford, VA · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Overview/ Job Responsibilities Entarian is looking for an entry-level Engineering Technician I/II ... Fiber Optic Certification(s) * Experienced with Navy Shore Platform Installation Handbook

Entarian

Engineering Technician I/II

Stafford, VA · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Overview/ Job Responsibilities Entarian is looking for an entry-level Engineering Technician I/II ... Fiber Optic Certification(s) * Experienced with Navy Shore Platform Installation Handbook

Entarian

Engineering Technician I/II

Stafford, VA

$24 - $32/hr

Overview/ Job Responsibilities Entarian is looking for an entry-level Engineering Technician I/II ... Fiber Optic Certification(s) * Experienced with Navy Shore Platform Installation Handbook

Entarian

Engineering Technician I/II

Stafford, VA · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Entarian is looking for an entry-level Engineering Technician I/II responsible for assisting senior ... Fiber Optic Certification(s) * Experienced with Navy Shore Platform Installation Handbook

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Entry Level JobsOptical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Virginia

Optical Engineer Entry Level information

See Virginia salary details

$82.3K

$142.4K

$167.1K

How much do optical engineer entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer entry level in Virginia is $142,379.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,900.00 and $165,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Optical Engineer Entry Level, a solid background in optics, physics, and engineering principles—usually acquired through a bachelor's degree in optical engineering, physics, or a related field—is essential. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laboratory equipment, and CAD tools is typically expected for hands-on work and simulations. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective team communication make candidates stand out in collaborative engineering environments. These competencies are crucial for successfully designing, testing, and refining optical systems used in industries like telecommunications, imaging, and manufacturing.

What is an Optical Engineer Entry Level job?

An Optical Engineer Entry Level job involves designing, testing, and improving optical systems, such as lenses, lasers, and fiber optics, under the supervision of senior engineers. Responsibilities may include running simulations, performing laboratory experiments, and assisting in product development. Entry-level optical engineers often work in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, medical devices, or manufacturing. Strong analytical skills, a background in physics or engineering, and proficiency with optical design software are essential. This role provides hands-on experience and opportunities for career growth in optical engineering.

What kinds of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry-level Optical Engineer?

As an entry-level Optical Engineer, you will typically support the design, prototyping, and testing of optical components and systems under the guidance of senior engineers. Your daily tasks may include conducting simulations, preparing reports on experimental results, assembling optical setups in the lab, and troubleshooting equipment. You’ll often collaborate with cross-functional teams that include mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and project managers. This role provides an excellent opportunity to build practical skills, contribute to real-world product development, and learn from experienced mentors while laying the groundwork for future advancement in the optical engineering field.

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 Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Virginia? For Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings:
Optical Engineer Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Entry Level job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,379 per year, or $68.5 per hour.

Associate, Electrical Engineer

L3HHCM20

Lynchburg, VA • On-site

$62K - $115K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Associate, Electrical Engineer 

Job Code: 40053

Job Location: Lynchburg, VA

Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked, and have every other Friday off   

Job Description: 

  • Determine design approaches and parameters 
  • Perform system analysis to determine feasibility of design within time and cost constraints 
  • Utilize modeling tools and equipment to establish operating data, conduct experimental tests, and evaluate results 
  • Select components and equipment based on analysis of specifications and reliability 
  • Perform simulations and present design reviews to peer engineers 
  • Write scripts to control synthesis and build tools 

Qualifications: 

  • To be eligible, applicants must be pursuing a Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Materials Engineering, Materials Science Engineering or related field or have completed their bachelor's degree within the past 12 months. 

Preferred Skills: 

  • Knowledge and/or experience with VHDL, MCM, HFSS, Network, Power, Analog, Antennas, Controls, ENE, RF, Photonics, Modem, EDA, DSP, MATLAB, Communication Systems, FPGA, Aerospace industry or Optical Engineering  
  • Knowledge of Code V and/or Zemax software tools

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Colorado state, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New York state, Cleveland Ohio, Vermont and Virginia is $62,000 - $115,000. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible  spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

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