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Optical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Telescope Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... The role requires strong technical knowledge of optical and opto-mechanical systems, systems ...

TalentRemedy

Firmware Engineer

Herndon, VA

Fibertek, Inc. is a leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the aerospace community, with key contributions to lasers for atmospheric sensing, laser communications, and lidar sensors ...

SAIC

Telescope Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

The Telescope Opto-mechanical Engineer provides technical expertise and systems engineering support ... The role requires strong technical knowledge of optical and opto-mechanical systems, systems ...

SAIC

Telescope Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... The role requires strong technical knowledge of optical and opto-mechanical systems, systems ...

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA · On-site

Mentor and guide junior optical engineers and physicists * Create a culture of technical rigor, accountability, and momentum * Coordinate with systems, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams

MAG Aerospace

Systems Engineer III

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

Recommend approaches to implement electro optic (EO) system level components into prototypes capable of achieving user requirements. * Applies system engineering principles and procedures to ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Optical Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$86.3K

$149.4K

$175.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Reston, VA is $149,406.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,200.00 and $173,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.
More about Optical Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
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What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
Optical Engineer jobs near you

EO/IR & LIDAR - OPTICS RESEARCH ENGINEER with Security Clearance

Alaire Technologies, Inc

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$80K - $150K/yr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Alaire Technologies is Hiring! Join Alaire to support our customers in pushing the limits of advanced sensors and processing technologies to give the Navy and Marines the edge they need in the battlespace. We are seeking senior-level, hands-on researchers and engineers who can hit the lab running to support cutting-edge technology development for US Navy projects. Location: Alexandria, VA // Washington D.C. Job Description EO/IR & LIDAR - OPTICS RESEARCH ENGINEER — Senior Level SUMMARY:
This role focuses on the development, integration, testing, and advanced processing of state-of-the-art EO/IR sensor and laser systems along with LiDAR systems. The ideal candidate is a lab-strong, optics-capable engineer who can independently build, evaluate, and troubleshoot complex optical, laser and sensor hardware. Responsibilities include multi-band sensor system design, LiDAR/EO optics development, hands-on lab integration, data collection, data processing, and supporting the design of optics, focal plane arrays, related electronics, and related sensor technologies. QUALIFICATIONS: BS/MS/PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or related field
7+ years (preferred) of hands-on lab experience with optics, sensor hardware, and system integration
Demonstrated ability to build, align, and troubleshoot optical test setups
Experience working in research, design, evaluation, and testing of new EO/IR & LiDAR technologies.
Experience creating data acquisition systems for lab and field data collection
Strong radiometric analysis skills for sensor performance characterization
Ability to fabricate or assemble custom test fixtures and lab setups
Experience with C/C++, MATLAB, Python
Experience with lasers used in systems
Experience with multiband sensors
Experience with ISR sensors, systems, or components is a plus U.S. Citizenship required; ability to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance (active clearance preferred)
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $80,000–$150,000 per year depending on experience

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