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Optical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Meta

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment

Reston, VA

$162K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

IonQ

Optomechanical Engineer

College Park, MD · On-site

$95K - $125K/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 ...

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

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA

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

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA

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

Fibertek

Senior Firmware Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$122K - $162K/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 ...

Fibertek, Inc

Senior Firmware Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$122K - $162K/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 ...

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 ...

Thorlabs

Systems Engineer II

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K/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

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

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 Jun 21, 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 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 is an optical engineer?

An optical engineer designs, develops, and tests systems and devices that utilize light, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging systems. They often work with optical materials, use simulation software, and require knowledge of physics and engineering principles to improve optical performance and functionality.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced optical engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or advanced research can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, management responsibilities, or significant expertise in optical systems and laser technologies. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives.

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.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to their expertise in designing and developing optical systems for industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. The field requires strong knowledge of optics, photonics, and related tools, and job growth is driven by advancements in technology and increasing reliance on optical components.

What do optical engineers work on?

Optical engineers design, develop, and test optical systems and components such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They work on projects related to telecommunications, medical instruments, imaging systems, and laser technology, often using tools like CAD software and requiring knowledge of physics and optics principles.
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:
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
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $149,681 per year, or $72 per hour.
Network Engineer, Optical Deployment

Network Engineer, Optical Deployment

Meta

Reston, VA

$162K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Meta rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 191 rated software companies

Job description

Meta is looking for an Optical Network Deployment & Support Engineering Lead to join the team responsible for planning and executing network deployments to build the world's largest AI backbone network. In this role, you will have a unique opportunity to work on cutting edge Optical and IP networking technologies owning the deployment planning, implementation, and scaling of Meta's AI network infrastructure.
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, ensuring alignment with organizational direction and goals
  • Provide hands-on technical contributions (design, deployment, migrate, code reviews, troubleshooting, etc.) on large scale complex programs at the experienced engineer level, demonstrating domain expertise and technical impact
  • Drive strategic planning by building and executing six-month to multi-year roadmaps that support business growth and transformation. Balance high-level strategic approach with hands-on leadership to deliver results across a broad portfolio of initiatives
  • Ensure high standards for reliability, scalability, and performance in all deliverables, driving continuous improvement in engineering processes and technical quality
  • Collaborate cross-functionally across Network Engineering, Data Center, Network Investments, and Planning teams to ensure successful execution of shared goals on network delivery
  • Deploy, migrate and support our global production network including edge, backbone, and data center infrastructure
  • Manage key vendor relationships including contract negotiations, pricing, and evaluation of current and potential partnerships
  • Mentor and onboard new team members, raising the team’s overall technical acumen and building internal community
  • Demonstrate leadership behaviors by helping others, showing respect, connecting people, and driving collaboration within the team and organization
  • 10% to 30% of travel

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, relevant technical field, or equivalent practical experience
  • 8+ years of Network Engineering, including hands-on responsibility for planning, building, deployment or migrating production network environments
  • 5+ years experience working in Optical Network Engineering
  • Hands-on experience with enterprise and carrier class routing, switching, and optical transport platforms
  • Knowledge of data center design and operational best practices
  • Proven experience leading and executing network deployment and migration projects
  • Experience interacting with vendors and external parties to drive projects to completion

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration) and staying current with emerging AI technologies
  • Demonstrated ability to integrate AI tools to optimize/redesign workflows and drive measurable impact (e.g., efficiency gains, quality improvements)
  • Experience adhering to and implementing responsible, ethical AI practices (e.g., risk assessment, bias mitigation, quality and accuracy reviews)
  • Experience with process improvement and systems development, leveraging automation to streamline repetitive workflows
  • Experience in data center, edge, or large-scale network environments
  • High proficiency in automation (Python, Go, etc.) and network configuration management tooling

About Meta:
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.
Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at accommodations-ext@meta.com.
$162,000/year to $227,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits
Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

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