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Optical Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Sedulous Consulting Services LLC

Optical Engineer

Quantico, VA · On-site

$139K - $180K/yr

Sedulous is seeking an Optical Engineer to provide on-site technical support for the Electro-Optic Support Facility (EOSF) at MCSC Quantico in support of the Product Manager Infantry Weapons (PdM IW ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130.40K - $168.90K/yr

QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense-oriented programs through ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA

$132.70K - $171.70K/yr

Fibertek is looking for an optical communication engineer to join our Herndon, VA team to help pave the way for tomorrow's advancement in space exploration. You will embrace a team atmosphere while ...

SAIC

Electro Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$132.10K - $171K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a Electro-Optical (EO) Engineer to join Landmark AOS, SAIC's Prime SETA program in Chantilly, VA. Landmark AOS delivers critical Systems Engineering and Technical Advisory ...

Fibertek, Inc

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132.70K - $171.70K/yr

Job Title Optical Communication Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary) Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based ...

NSS

Sr. Optical Communications Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132.70K - $171.70K/yr

Senior Optical Communication Engineer Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based optical communications laser terminals including optical inter ...

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Optical Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$94K

$162.7K

$190.8K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Washington is $162,653.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,100.00 and $189,100.00 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Engineer, and why are they important?

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?

AspectOptical EngineerOptical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in optics or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of optical systems in labs or R&D settingsAssembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical equipment in manufacturing or labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, aerospace, defenseManufacturers, 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.

More about Optical Engineer jobs
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 are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Washington? For Optical Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in WA? For Optical Engineer jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Washington as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $162,653 per year, or $78.2 per hour.
Optical Engineer

Optical Engineer

Sedulous Consulting Services LLC

Quantico, VA • On-site

$139K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

LOCATION: Quantico, VA (on-site)

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: Up to 10%

CLEARANCE: Secret

BENEFITS: 401K, Life/Health/ Dental/Disability Insurance, Flexible Paid Leave, and Tuition Reimbursement.

STATUS: Contingent

Description:

Sedulous is seeking an Optical Engineer to provide on-site technical support for the Electro-Optic Support Facility (EOSF) at MCSC Quantico in support of the Product Manager Infantry Weapons (PdM IW) program.

Primary duties will include (but not limited to):

  • Provide on-site technical support for the Electro-Optic Support Facility (EOSF) at MCSC Quantico in support of the Product Manager Infantry Weapons (PdM IW) program. The EOSF tests a broad range of optical systems to include day optical systems, image intensification systems, laser systems, and thermal systems.
  • Conduct electro-optical system testing, surveillance, troubleshooting, maintenance management, test plan development, test method development, and test equipment upkeep.
  • Maintain inventory control and properly document the accountability of all equipment within the EOSF.
  • Provide technical analysis of test results, process testing data, participate in limited user evaluations, support government shipping of equipment to and from the EOSF, and ensure Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the EOSF are maintained and followed.
  • Tasks include specifying, selecting, and qualifying active and passive optical components, developing and benchmarking system performance models, developing and implementing test procedures, and evaluating and selecting appropriate test instrumentation.
  • Conduct research on solid-state lasers, masers, infrared, and other light-emitting and light-sensitive devices: Incorporate methods for maintenance and repair of components and designs, and develop test instrumentation and test procedures. Confer with engineering and technical personnel regarding fabrication and testing of prototype systems.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:

  • Possess 5-7 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree or 3-5 years with a Master's degree.
  • Possess strong communication skills, both orally and in writing.
  • Possess a working knowledge of Department of Defense (DoD) classified document handling procedures.
  • Experience working directly with Senior-level
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office suite, with 5 years of experience using Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, and Word.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands described here are representative of those required of an employee to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. This is sedentary work which requires the following physical activities: reaching, sifting, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, feeling, repetitive motions, talking, hearing, and visual acuity. Occasionally lifts to 20 lbs.

Employees must be able to see and hear, read, and write effectively in English. Requires adaptability, analyzing, assessing, calculating, decision making, dependability, good judgment, reading, memorizing, social skills, speaking, stress control, and writing. Ability to understand, remember, and apply oral and/or written instructions or other information; Ability to apply common sense in performing the job. Ability to complete routine forms, use existing form letters, and/or conduct routine oral communication. Ability to make decisions that have a significant impact on the immediate work unit.

Company EEO Statement: Sedulous Consulting Services is an EEO/AA/Disability/Veterans Employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other category protected by law. Sedulous hires and promotes individuals solely on the basis of their qualifications for the job to be filled.