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Optical Engineer Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

3M HEALTHCARE

Optical Engineer III

Reston, VA · On-site

$85 - $134/hr

The Optical Engineer III will help monitor the network and troubleshoot network issues, and ensure we are able to provide guaranteed performance and capacity to our products. * Scope: Engineers ...

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Optical Engineer information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$80.8K

$139.9K

$164.1K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Columbia, MD is $139,862.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,600.00 and $162,600.00 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?

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.

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 popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD?

For Optical Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Columbia, MD are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Columbia, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $139,862 per year, or $67.2 per hour.

Electro-Optical Engineer

Laurel, MD • On-site

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratoryexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 hours ago

Job description

Description
Do you like to work with sophisticated electro-optical systems? Do you have a desire to work in a cutting-edge R&D environment solving the nation's toughest challenges while working for a top-rated employer?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
JHU/APL is seeking an Electro-Optical Engineer to be a part of a team of scientists and engineers that conceives, designs, builds, and tests complex electro-optical systems.
As an Electro-Optical Engineer, you will:
  • Conduct in-depth analysis of electro-optical sensors and systems
  • Design, simulate, analyze, prototype, and test optical systems and sensors at the component, subsystem, and system levels
  • Develop new test capabilities that will assess the performance of both new and fielded optical systems
  • Develop and refine tools, techniques, models, simulations, algorithms, and software for the testing and evaluation of electro-optic systems
  • Develop and maintain optical test equipment for electro-optical seeker and sensor systems
  • Work with project and program management and with peers across the organization to ensure that test results provide critical contributions to the most critical challenges the nation faces in air and missile defense.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • A Bachelor's degree in engineering, optics, physics, mathematics, or a related field.
  • Experience in analysis, design, development, or testing of electro-optical instruments or sensors
  • Proficiency in data analysis and the interpretation of physical measurements as real-world phenomena
  • Demonstrated strengths in understanding and solving sophisticated technical problems.
  • Ability to speak and write for audiences of varying levels of technical knowledge
  • Availability to travel up to 10% of the time as needed.
  • An active Secret security clearance and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI. If selected, you will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • An MS or PhD degree or equivalent in a relevant technical field.
  • Experience in system-level requirement analysis, engineering, and evaluation of electro-optical sensors, systems, and subsystems
  • Experience with visible and infrared detectors (CCD, CMOS, microbolometer, InSb, HgCdTe, Type II SLS, etc.)
  • Ability to perform radiometric/photometric modeling of electro-optical sensor systems in both the visible and the infrared spectrum
  • Interdisciplinary familiarity of systems including optical, electro-optical, electrical, software, and mechanical engineering
  • Experience in system engineering and project management.
  • Experience with integrated software/hardware systems.
  • Current TS/SCI clearance.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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