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How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering in Maryland is $50.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.70 and $80.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is optical engineering?

Optical engineering is a branch of engineering focused on the design, development, and application of optical systems and devices, such as lenses, lasers, microscopes, and fiber optics. Optical engineers use knowledge of physics and materials science to manipulate light and create products that rely on light and vision technologies. This field is essential in industries like telecommunications, medical imaging, consumer electronics, and aerospace. Optical engineers often work on improving performance, efficiency, and functionality of optical components and systems.

What are some common challenges optical engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Optical Engineers often collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to develop complex products such as cameras, sensors, or fiber optic systems. A common challenge is effectively communicating highly technical optical concepts to colleagues from other disciplines who may not share the same background. This requires strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills to ensure design requirements are understood and integrated smoothly. Additionally, balancing optical performance with cost, manufacturability, and system constraints can be demanding but also provides valuable experience for career growth.

What can you do with an optical engineering degree?

Optical engineering degrees prepare individuals for roles designing and developing optical systems, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. Graduates often work in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, medical devices, and consumer electronics, utilizing skills in optics, physics, and computer-aided design. Certification and hands-on experience with optical testing tools can enhance employment opportunities.

What is the difference between Optical Engineering vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical EngineeringOptical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in optical engineering, physics, or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in optics or related area
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, research facilities, manufacturing companiesManufacturing floors, assembly lines, testing labs
Job FocusDesigning optical systems, developing new technologiesAssembling, testing, and maintaining optical devices
Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, aerospace, defense

Optical engineers focus on designing and developing optical systems, requiring higher education and specialized skills. Optical technicians support these efforts by assembling and testing optical components, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the optics industry but differ in responsibilities, education, and work environment.

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 deep understanding of 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 essential, and certifications like Certified Optical Engineer can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and translate technical concepts. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, testing, and improving optical systems that meet precise technical and commercial requirements.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineering jobs in Maryland? For Optical Engineering jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineering jobs in Maryland look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineering jobs in Maryland are:
What cities in Maryland are hiring for Optical Engineering jobs? Cities in Maryland with the most Optical Engineering job openings:
Optical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineering job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 84% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,817 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

Optical Network Engineer

CompQsoft,Inc .

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

$143K - $185K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Title: Optical Network Engineer

Location: Fort Meade MD ( Hybrid)

Clearance required: Secret Clearance

Certification required by project: IAT Level 2

COMPQSOFT Inc. is seeking an Optical Network Engineer to augment our DISA test team at Fort Meade, MD. The candidate will function as a subject matter expert (SME) in testing existing and new optical network equipment for the DOD s transport network. The candidate will work developing test cases, test reports and implementation plan in evaluating engineering architectures, new technologies and approaches to unique engineering problems. Candidate will also function as a Tier III Optical engineer assisting Tier II engineers and vendors to provide solutions to resolve real world Optical network issues.
Responsibilities/Duties/Tasks:
Optical testing:
  • Analyze new/old optical transport equipment functionality and interoperability amongst various transport networks (Optical Transport Networks (OTN), Synchronous Optical Network (SONET), Ethernet) and cryptographic equipment.
  • Operate various Bit Error Rate Test (BERT) test equipment in support of equipment testing.
  • Develop test cases, test reports and implementation plans based on equipment testing.
  • Perform interoperability testing between different vendors OTN equipment.
  • Perform interoperability testing between edge devices and OTN equipment.
  • Determine and provide Recommendations with supporting documentation for new equipment to be deployed /not deployed in the operational network.
  • Brief the group leads on project status.
Tier III Support:
  • Work with DISA Tier II optical engineers to identify, track, and develop solutions to complex network problems.
  • Mock-up equipment problems in the Test Lab to reproduce the problem and work toward a solution.
Engineering support:
  • Analyze new Optical transport equipment.
  • Determine/identify functional capabilities of new equipment.
  • Provide SME support in identifying equipment capabilities.
Required Experience/Qualifications:
  • Bachelor s degree is preferred
  • Security+ certification or equivalent 8570 IAT II certification.(Should be able to obtain within 3 months from joining)
  • 5 + years of Optical systems engineering experience configuring, testing, designing, implementing, or troubleshooting telecommunication networks.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills are required to collaborate test plans and reports with Government and equipment vendors.
  • Able to work with strict deadlines.
  • Knowledge and experience with Microsoft office suite to include Word, Excel, and Visio technical drawing program.
  • Ability to work along with no or little assistance to complete equipment testing.
  • Ability to work in a group to achieve the common goal to resolve complex network issues.
  • Extensive knowledge of Dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) technologies.
  • Experience with SONET, DWDM, Time-division multiplexing (TDM) and Ethernet technologies.

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