Optical Engineer
$200K - $240K/yr
Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...
Optical Engineer
$200K - $240K/yr
Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...
Optical Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$200 - $240/hr
Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...
Optical Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$200 - $240/hr
Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...
Optical Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$200K - $240K/yr
Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...
Optical Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$200K - $240K/yr
Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...
Optical Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$200K - $240K/yr
Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...
Optical Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$200K - $240K/yr
Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...
Optical Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$133K - $172K/yr
Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...
Optical Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$133K - $172K/yr
Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...
Optical Engineer
$132K - $171K/yr
Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...
Optical Engineer
$132K - $171K/yr
Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...
Optical Engineer
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$120 - $170/hr
Cerillo's Optical Engineer is a specialized member of the Engineering team responsible for designing, developing, and validating the precision optical systems at the heart of Cerillo's compact ...
Optical Engineer
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$120 - $170/hr
Cerillo's Optical Engineer is a specialized member of the Engineering team responsible for designing, developing, and validating the precision optical systems at the heart of Cerillo's compact ...
Optical Engineer
King George, VA · On-site
$77K - $176K/yr
Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...
Optical Engineer
King George, VA · On-site
$77K - $176K/yr
Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...
Optical Engineer
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$131K - $170K/yr
Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...
Optical Engineer
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$131K - $170K/yr
Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...
Optical Engineer
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$131K - $170K/yr
Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...
Optical Engineer
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$131K - $170K/yr
Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...
Optical Engineer
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$131K - $170K/yr
Share Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind ...
Optical Engineer
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$131K - $170K/yr
Share Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind ...
Optical Engineer
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$131K - $170K/yr
R0246988 Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power ...
Optical Engineer
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$131K - $170K/yr
R0246988 Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power ...
Optical Engineer
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$77K - $176K/yr
Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...
Optical Engineer
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$77K - $176K/yr
Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...
Optical Engineer
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$90 - $130/hr
Collaborate with mechanical engineers to achieve compact, manufacturable optical enclosures with the required positional stability and environmental sealing * Develop test methods and acceptance ...
Optical Engineer
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$90 - $130/hr
Collaborate with mechanical engineers to achieve compact, manufacturable optical enclosures with the required positional stability and environmental sealing * Develop test methods and acceptance ...
Optical Engineer
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$78 - $176/hr
As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex systems.That knowledge is key when it comes to the support and testing of electro-optic ( EO ) components for integration into high ...
Optical Engineer
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$78 - $176/hr
As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex systems.That knowledge is key when it comes to the support and testing of electro-optic ( EO ) components for integration into high ...
$77K - $176K/yr
Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...
New
$77K - $176K/yr
Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...
New
Optical Engineer-Dahlgren, Virginia
King George, VA · On-site
$77K - $176K/yr
Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...
New
Optical Engineer-Dahlgren, Virginia
King George, VA · On-site
$77K - $176K/yr
Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...
New
Optical Engineer with Security Clearance
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$131K - $170K/yr
R0246988 Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power ...
Optical Engineer with Security Clearance
Dahlgren, VA · On-site
$131K - $170K/yr
R0246988 Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Lorton, VA · On-site
$164K - $213K/yr
Position Overview QinetiQ US is looking for a Principal Optical Engineer experienced in electro-optic/ infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor optical design, laboratory optical characterization, and ...
Principal Optical Engineer
Lorton, VA · On-site
$164K - $213K/yr
Position Overview QinetiQ US is looking for a Principal Optical Engineer experienced in electro-optic/ infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor optical design, laboratory optical characterization, and ...
Principal Optical Engineer
$164K - $213K/yr
Position Overview QinetiQ US is looking for a Principal Optical Engineer experienced in electro-optic/ infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor optical design, laboratory optical characterization, and ...
Principal Optical Engineer
$164K - $213K/yr
Position Overview QinetiQ US is looking for a Principal Optical Engineer experienced in electro-optic/ infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor optical design, laboratory optical characterization, and ...
Optical Engineer information
See Virginia salary details
$82.3K - $90K
0% of jobs
$90K - $97.7K
0% of jobs
$97.7K - $105.4K
0% of jobs
$105.4K - $113.1K
0% of jobs
$113.1K - $120.8K
0% of jobs
$125.8K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$120.8K - $128.5K
38% of jobs
The median wage is $132.1K / yr.
$128.5K - $136.2K
26% of jobs
$136.2K - $143.9K
0% of jobs
$143.9K - $151.6K
0% of jobs
$151.6K - $159.3K
0% of jobs
$161.7K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$159.3K - $167.1K
36% of jobs
$82.3K
$142.4K
$167.1K
How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer 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 does an optical engineer do?
An optical engineer oversees the scientific application of optics and light in an industrial, research, or manufacturing setting. As an optical engineering professional, your responsibilities include the design of instruments and products that rely on optics, from space telescopes to DVD players. You also may work in research and development to create new technologies and applications for optical science. Your specific duties and the level of education you need varies depending on the field in which you work
What does an optical engineer do?
An optical engineer designs and develops devices and systems that use the properties of light, such as lenses, lasers, microscopes, and fiber optics. They use principles of physics and engineering to solve problems related to the generation, transmission, and detection of light. Optical engineers work in a variety of industries, including telecommunications, aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing. Their work often involves research, testing, and improving optical components and systems to enhance performance and efficiency.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical engineer?
To thrive as an Optical Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and laboratory equipment is commonly required, along with relevant certifications like SPIE or OSA membership. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this field. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing precise optical systems, solving complex technical challenges, and collaborating on innovative projects.
What are some typical challenges optical engineers face when working on new product development?
Optical Engineers involved in new product development often encounter challenges such as balancing optical performance with manufacturability and cost constraints. They must collaborate closely with mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure system integration meets all technical requirements. Additionally, they need to troubleshoot issues that arise during prototyping, such as unexpected aberrations or alignment difficulties, and iterate designs rapidly to meet project timelines. Effective communication and creative problem-solving are essential in overcoming these hurdles.
What is the difference between Optical Engineer vs Optical Technician?
| Aspect | Optical Engineer | Optical Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Bachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related field | Associate's degree or technical certification in optics or related field |
| Work Environment | Design, development, and testing of optical systems in labs or R&D settings | Assembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical equipment in manufacturing or labs |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Research institutions, tech companies, aerospace, defense | Manufacturers, optical labs, production facilities |
Optical Engineers focus on designing and developing optical systems, requiring higher education and involved in R&D. Optical Technicians handle the assembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical devices, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the optics industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.
Are optical engineers in high demand?
Optical engineers are in high demand due to advancements in fields like telecommunications, medical devices, and defense technology. They often require strong skills in optics, laser systems, and CAD software, with employment opportunities growing as industries increasingly rely on optical technologies.
How much do optical engineers make?
Optical engineers in California typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and specific industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in optics design, laser systems, or photonics may offer higher salaries and additional benefits.
More about Optical Engineer jobs
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 jobs in Virginia?
For Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?
The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?
Cities in Virginia with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in VA?
For Optical Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
SAIC rating
7.9
Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
79th of 225 rated it services
Job description
Job ID: 2614292
Location: Chantilly, VA, US
Date Posted: 2026-07-07
Category: Engineering and Sciences
Subcategory: Systems Engineer
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: No
Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI_wPoly
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None
Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE
Description
SAIC has an opening for an Electrical Engineer with a strong background in Optical Engineering, Fiber Optics, and Telecommunications. The candidate should have experience or a willingness to work in a lab environment, contributing to innovative projects and advancing technological capabilities.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics:
- Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices
- Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems and components to ensure optimal performance
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical solutions into broader telecommunications frameworks
- Telecommunications:
- Develop and implement telecommunications systems and solutions, focusing on enhancing network efficiency and reliability
- Conduct performance evaluations and troubleshooting of telecommunications systems
Stay updated on emerging telecommunications technologies and integrate relevant advancements into ongoing projects
- Lab Environment:
- Participate actively in lab-based projects, including setup, calibration, and maintenance of experimental and testing equipment
- Conduct experiments and tests to validate the performance and reliability of optical and telecommunications systems
- Analyze and document results, providing detailed reports and recommendations for improvements
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field
- Must currently hold a TS/SCI and Poly clearance
- Minimum of 10 years of relevant technical experience
- Proven experience in optical engineering, fiber optics, and telecommunications
- Hands-on experience working in a lab environment, including setup, calibration, and maintenance of testing equipment
- Experience with design, development, and testing of optical components and telecommunications systems
Preferred:
- Experience with LTEs and other advanced telecommunications technologies
- Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements for telecommunications and optical engineering
Target salary range: $200,001 - $240,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
About Science Applications International
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