1

Optical Engineer Intern Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Intern, RF/Wireless Engineering Job Code: 42763 Job Location: Herndon, VA Job Schedule: 9/80 ... optical, opto-mechanical or electro-mechanical in nature * Provide support to engineering and ...

GENERAL ENGINEER

Quantico, VA · On-site

$102K/yr

... Optics)Combat Equipment and Support Systems (i.e., Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear ... Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT)1 , or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) by any ...

GENERAL ENGINEER

Quantico, VA · On-site

$143K/yr

... Squad, Recon, Optics) - Combat Equipment and Support Systems (i.e., Chemical Biological ... Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT)1 , or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) by any ...

GENERAL ENGINEER

Quantico, VA · On-site

$102K/yr

... Optics) Combat Equipment and Support Systems (i.e., Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear ... Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT)1 , or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) by any ...

GENERAL ENGINEER

Quantico, VA · On-site

$102K/yr

... Squad, Recon, Optics) - Combat Equipment and Support Systems (i.e., Chemical Biological ... Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT), or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) by any State ...

GENERAL ENGINEER

Quantico, VA · On-site

$102K/yr

... Optics) Combat Equipment and Support Systems (i.e., Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear ... Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT)1 , or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) by any ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Optical Engineer Intern information

See Washington salary details

$15

$28

$43

How much do optical engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineer intern in Washington is $28.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.41 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical engineer intern do?

An Optical Engineer Intern assists in designing, testing, and optimizing optical systems, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They work under experienced engineers to conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop prototypes. Their responsibilities may also include running simulations, troubleshooting optical components, and documenting findings. This role provides hands-on experience in optics and photonics, crucial for careers in research, manufacturing, and product development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical engineer intern?

To thrive as an Optical Engineer Intern, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and mathematics, generally demonstrated through coursework or laboratory experience in optical engineering or related fields. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD programs, and laboratory instrumentation is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively make candidates stand out. These skills enable interns to contribute meaningfully to technical projects, accurately perform experiments, and smoothly integrate with multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Optical Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Optical Engineer Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Intern job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,877 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Intern D, RF/Wireless Engineer

L3HHCM20

Herndon, VA • On-site

$29 - $53.50/hr

Full-time, Internship

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Intern, RF/Wireless Engineering 

Job Code: 42763

Job Location: Herndon, 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: 

  • Prepare component drawings and specifications for highly complex products that may be electro-optical, opto-mechanical or electro-mechanical in nature 

  • Provide support to engineering and purchasing for procurement and selection of parts and materials, prepare nonstandard part and material submittals, interface and work with inside and outside labs to interpret test results and define testing for the purposes of assuring that parts are compliant to requirements 

  • Effectively communicate with program engineers, management, and customers on technical issues and status of work 

  • Present results of analysis to program engineers and customers on a regular basis to ensure proper interpretation and understanding 

  • Act as a technical consultant in areas of expertise and to perform technical reviews of material/component quality documentation including supplier data, test results, etc. to assure conformance to stated requirements. Work is closely supervised 

  • Follow established procedures and specific, detailed instructions and/or guidance from more senior functional staff 

Qualifications:  

  • Must be pursuing a Bachelor's degree, a Master's degree, or a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related technical degree at an accredited university.  

PAY TRANSPARENCY: In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Virginia (Greater D.C. area) is $29.00 per hour - $53.50 per hour. 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.