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Optical Engineering Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

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How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 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 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 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.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to their expertise in designing and developing optical systems used in telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics. The field offers strong job growth prospects, especially for those with skills in laser technology, photonics, and related software tools. Employment opportunities are expected to increase as industries continue to adopt advanced optical technologies.

What can you do with an optical engineering degree?

An optical engineering degree prepares 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 simulation tools can enhance job prospects.

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 Planning Engineer with Security Clearance

By Light Professional IT Services

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

$143K - $185K/yr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

By Light Professional IT Services LLC readies warfighters and federal agencies with technology and systems engineered to connect, protect, and prepare individuals and teams for whatever comes next. Headquartered in McLean, VA, By Light supports defense, civilian, and commercial IT customers worldwide. Position Overview By Light Professional IT Services is seeking an Optical Network Technology Planning Engineer to join our DISA team at Ft Meade, MD. This is an exciting key position to a major Department of Defense initiative. The candidate will work all aspects of optical network equipment planning for the DOD's global optical transport network. The candidate will work to develop hardware (Major Bill of Material) deployment plans including system configurations, routing of the 10/100/400G circuits over the network, providing plans to operations of the circuits in "Wavelength Plan format" to meet service requirements. The candidate will support the DISA operations during the implementation of the hardware and services. Responsibilities * Based on the direction from government assess the service requirements and strategic technology requirements to develop deployment plans that include hardware requirements, transition plans and capturing the service routing in Wavelength Plan for implementation. * Provide in-depth engineering analysis, deployment, and transition plans of transport level equipment in support of government strategic modernization efforts.
* Interface with DISA operations and implementation vendors in the implementation of developed deployment and Wavelength Plans. Required Experience/Qualifications * Minimum 2 years' experience working in the planning of transport technologies such as Optical Transport System (a.k.a. DWDM), OTN/Packet switching, L1/L2 switches, legacy SONET/SDH technologies. * Minimum 5 years of experience in a technical or related field.
* Familiarity with ITU-T, OIF and IETF standards. Knowledge of transport protocols such as ITU-T G.709, Layer 1/Layer 2 protocols, and Ethernet. Preferred Experience/Qualifications * Prior experience with a major Optical Manufacturer equipment a plus: Ciena, Cisco, Infinera or Nokia
* Familiarity with QPSK, QAM is highly desirable.
* Knowledge of network management and experience with wave length planning tools such as One Planner, Transport Planner, Ciena MCP/Navigator, Blue Planet, or Cisco Optical Network Planner. * DoD 8570-01-M IAT Level II or higher to include one of the following: CCNA-Security, CySA+, GICSP, Security+, GSEC, SSCP, or higher level cert. Special Requirements/Security Clearance * Active Secret Clearance

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