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Optical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment Responsibilities: * Lead the technical deployment, architecture, and execution for your team's projects within Edge Network Services (ENS) on network deployment ...

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment Responsibilities: * Lead the technical strategy, architecture, and execution for your team's projects within Edge Network Services (ENS) on network deployment ...

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 ...

Optomechanical Engineer

College Park, MD · On-site

$95.95K - $125.62K/yr

Design, Assemble and align optical components, fiber arrays, micro-optics, and mechanical fixtures used in photonic test stations * Integrate motion stages, nanopositioners, and precision alignment ...

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

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

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

Senior Firmware Engineer

Herndon, VA

$122.90K - $162.50K/yr

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 ...

Senior Firmware Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$122.90K - $162.50K/yr

Collaborate closely with hardware, systems, software, and optical engineers in cross-functional teams to define interfaces, resolve design issues, and ensure seamless system integration * Participate ...

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

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

Systems Engineer II

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99.20K/yr

The position will have experience designing optical systems and have a good understanding of ... Work independently and collaboratively with other engineers to develop systems, prototypes, and ...

Systems Engineer II

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99.20K/yr

The position will have experience designing optical systems and have a good understanding of ... engineers to develop systems, prototypes, and tests Life Science Imaging Systems. • Follow ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$86.5K

$149.7K

$175.6K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Reston, VA is $149,681.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,500.00 and $174,100.00 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.

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:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Optical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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:
Electro-Optical Systems Engineer

Electro-Optical Systems Engineer

LTC Solutions LLC

Quantico, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

LTC Solutions, LLC is a small company with a huge commitment to supporting our employees and providing quality services to our government clients. Our employees have an entrepreneurial spirit, a passion for excellence, and a proactive approach to providing the best possible solutions to our clients. If you are committed to building excellent client relationships, providing consistent superior-quality work, and taking initiative to understand your clients' needs, we would like to meet you!
LTC offers a dynamic team setting and generous benefits (including 401K, PTO, and Health, Dental, Vision, Life and Disability Insurance).
POSITION: Electro-Optical Systems Engineer, active Secret clearance
This opportunity is only available to US Citizens with ACTIVE Secret Clearance
LOCATION: Quantico, VA (On-Site - Marine Corps Systems Command)
STATUS: Full time - Contingent Hire
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline
  • Experience: 5-10 years of related experience with optical, thermal, laser, or electro-optical systems in laboratory and test-facility environments, conducting system testing and analyzing test data; ability to follow and maintain technical procedures and SOPs
  • Citizenship and Clearance: US Citizen with ability to obtain Active Secret Clearance
  • Travel: Ability to travel up to 25% to support client meetings and requirements
  • Skills: Above average proficiency in Microsoft Office products; Strong verbal and written communication skills; Strong documentation and technical reporting skills, Strong problem-solving skills; Ability to work independently or with a team

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Client Familiarity: The Electro-Optical Systems Engineer will provide on-site technical support at the Electro-Optic Support Facility (EOSF). This role supports the testing, analysis, maintenance, and operational readiness of a wide range of electro-optical systems used by the U.S. Marine Corps
  • Tools Familiarity: DoD/IC Acquisition Process, Requirements Process

PRIMARY DUTIES:
  • Conduct electro-optical system testing for: day optical systems, image intensification systems, laser systems, thermal systems
  • Develop, execute, and support test plans, test methods, and test procedures
  • Perform technical analysis of test results and process testing data
  • Support surveillance, troubleshooting, maintenance, and maintenance management of EOSF systems
  • Update, maintain and enforce EOSF Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Manage test equipment upkeep and calibration readiness
  • Maintain inventory control and accountability documentation for EOSF equipment
  • Support Limited User Evaluations (LUEs) and other test events
  • Coordinate and support government shipping and receiving of test equipment
  • Prepare technical inputs, summaries, and reports for Government review

LTC Solutions is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.