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Optical Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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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 Jul 14, 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, 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,379 per year, or $68.5 per hour.
Shipboard Telecommunications Mechanic

Shipboard Telecommunications Mechanic

United Support Services

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

United Support Services, Inc., founded in 2003, is an innovative engineering and technology business headquartered in San Diego, CA. We have an exciting new opportunity and are currently looking for an experienced Shipboard Telecommunications Mechanic II to provide support to U.S. Navy operations in the Hampton Roads, VA area. This position offers a competitive salary and unique opportunity to perform various shipboard and communications support duties.Military Veterans highly encouraged to apply!


Duties and Responsibilities
Install, remove, maintain, modify, troubleshoot, and repair voice and non-voice communication systems including intercoms, public address systems, alarm systems, and electronic and electromechanical telephone systems.
Install and maintain telecommunications cabling, computer networking systems, line drivers, terminal connectors, and associated communications equipment.
Run cables and wire to telephone sets, terminal connectors, lugs, pins, screws, and terminating equipment for voice and non-voice circuits.
Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment including PAC-STAR telephone systems, modems, patch panels, station carrier units, line couplers, speed dialers, voice recorders, telefax machines, and local wire and cable systems.
Utilize testing equipment including voltmeters, ohmmeters, continuity testers, handsets, breakout boxes, decibel meters, optical time domain reflectometers, and computer diagnostic equipment.
Analyze and restore faulty voice and non-voice circuits supporting computers, data systems, and alarm circuits.
Provide technical assistance to entry-level computer operators, programmers, systems analysts, and subject matter specialists in resolving communications and equipment issues.
Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair fire and flooding alarm systems.
Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair CATV systems and LAN equipment.
Troubleshoot and repair X09/X10 door locks and KABA Simplex locking systems.
Resolve difficult computer operating issues involving unusual equipment connections, channel configurations, and processing requirements.
Receive work assignments through service tickets, work orders, or project assignments and independently determine work sequences, tools, and materials required.
Follow layout sheets, craft plans, floor plans, circuit schematics, technical descriptions, and manufacturer guidance.
Additional tasks and duties may be assigned.


Required Experience:

Shipboard experience required.

Messing & Berthing Barge Experience preferred.

Familiarity with naval vessel environments and shipboard operations.

Minimum of three (3) years of experience installing, testing, maintaining, removing, and repairing intercom and public address systems and calibrating communications equipment.
Troubleshooting experience with voice and non-voice communication systems.
Experience with computer cabling and networking systems.
Experience utilizing testing equipment including voltmeters, ohmmeters, current flow testers, and continuity testers.
Ability to work independently and perform duties with minimal supervision.
Ability to read, interpret, and implement job specifications and technical documentation.

Experience troubleshooting and repairing CATV systems and LAN equipment.
Experience troubleshooting and repairing phone systems, alarm systems, intercoms, and communications networks.
Experience performing testing of installed wiring using specifications and technical drawings.
Ability to lift, carry, and transport heavy equipment and materials weighing up to 50 lbs.
Ability to work aboard ships, in shipyards, confined spaces, and industrial environments.
Ability to climb ladders and work in high heat, humidity, noisy, and physically demanding conditions.
Strong verbal communication and technical reporting skills.


Qualifications:

Must have Security Clearance.

Must have Drivers License.

Associate's Degree in a related field.

Ability to pass a government background investigation.


ADA Notations:

The physical job requirement involves, but is not limited to, walking, reaching, bending-over, concentration in the presence of noise, lifting items up to 50 lbs., and traversing narrow passageways, climbing ladders/stairs, and operating in confined spaces onboard naval vessels, barges, and in buildings.


Benefits:
401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Retirement plan
Vision insurance


Special Conditions:

This employment position is CONTINGENT upon a contract award to employer for the required services, completion of applicant's favorable employment background investigation, and the ability of applicant to obtain a military base access card and security clearance at all times during the period of employment.


Job Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt


United Support Services, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer.

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