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Optical Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Job duties: As an optical communications engineer, you will be responsible for designing and ... Design and work with some of the smartest minds in engineering actively involved in current high ...

Fibertek, Inc

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Job Title Optical Communication Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary ... Design and work with some of the smartest minds in engineering actively involved in current high ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to integrate optical and sensor components, supporting the entire product lifecycle from conceptualization to manufacturing and sustainment. * Maintain ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to integrate optical and sensor components, supporting the entire product lifecycle from conceptualization to manufacturing and sustainment. * Maintain ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to integrate optical and sensor components, supporting the entire product lifecycle from conceptualization to manufacturing and sustainment. * Maintain ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to integrate optical and sensor components, supporting the entire product lifecycle from conceptualization to manufacturing and sustainment. * Maintain ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to integrate optical and sensor components, supporting the entire product lifecycle from conceptualization to manufacturing and sustainment. * Maintain ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to integrate optical and sensor components, supporting the entire product lifecycle from conceptualization to manufacturing and sustainment. * Maintain ...

NSS

Sr. Optical Communications Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Senior Optical Communication Engineer Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of ... Design and work with some of the smartest minds in engineering actively involved in current high ...

NSS

Sr. Optical Communications Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Senior Optical Communication Engineer Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of ... Design and work with some of the smartest minds in engineering actively involved in current high ...

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In ...

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In ...

NSS

Sr. Optical Communications Engineer II

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Senior Optical Communication Engineer Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of ... Design and work with some of the smartest minds in engineering actively involved in current high ...

NSS

Sr. Optical Communications Engineer II

Herndon, VA

$132K - $171K/yr

Senior Optical Communication Engineer Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of ... Design and work with some of the smartest minds in engineering actively involved in current high ...

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All JobsOptical Engineering JobsOptical Engineering Jobs in Virginia

Optical Engineering information

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How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering in Virginia is $51.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.33 and $82.45 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 engineers make $500,000?

In optical engineering, senior-level professionals with extensive experience, advanced skills in optics and photonics, and often leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or specialized industries like defense or aerospace. Achieving this level typically requires advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of innovation or management.

What can you do with an Optical Engineering degree?

Optical engineering graduates can work in designing and developing optical systems, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices, for industries like telecommunications, healthcare, defense, and consumer electronics. They often work with tools like CAD software and may require knowledge of physics, materials science, and optical testing. Job roles include optical engineer, systems engineer, and research scientist, often requiring strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

What is an optical engineer?

An optical engineer designs, develops, and tests systems and devices that use light, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging systems. They often work with optical materials, CAD software, and precision measurement tools, and typically require a background in physics or engineering. Their work supports industries like telecommunications, healthcare, and defense.

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.

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 defense industries. 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 remain robust as optical technologies continue to advance across various sectors.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineering jobs in Virginia? For Optical Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineering jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Optical Engineering jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Optical Engineering job openings:
Optical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineering job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 39% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,072 per year, or $51.5 per hour.
Optical Communication Engineer

Optical Communication Engineer

Fibertek

Herndon, VA • On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based optical communications laser terminals including optical inter-satellite links (OISL) and direct to earth links. Fibertek is looking for an optical communication engineer to join our Herndon, VA team to help pave the way for tomorrow's advancement in space exploration. You will embrace a team atmosphere while being empowered to make decisions in your area of expertise.

Job duties: As an optical communications engineer, you will be responsible for designing and building optical space terminals. Work includes optical space lasercom design, hand-on building space flight optical flight terminals, and conducting performance and environmental verification testing for space. Design and work with some of the smartest minds in engineering actively involved in current high-profile NASA and DOD missions.

You will use your direct hands-on experience to support the build, alignment, and performance characterization of laser communication terminals, build space fiber lasers, and develop optical pointing and tracking systems. Activities include coordinating and performing formal acceptance and qualification testing across multiple concurrent projects with a mix of short-duration flight programs and long-duration technology maturation programs.Experience and expertise required: BS in Physics, Optical engineering or other related engineering specialties with a minimum of 3 years direct hands-on designing, building, and characterizing optical systems. Efficient at developing and executing on complex optical alignment methods

Understanding of opto-mechanical, thermo-optic tolerance and stability. Knowledge of laser theory and industry best practices associated with fiber laser systems including continuous wave, pulsed, and high peak power fiber lasers. Ability or interest in building fiber lasers.

Ability to design and execute experiments validating communications system performance and correlate the results with the expected performance. Strong communication and documentation skills for efficient multidisciplinary coordination Desired qualifications: Experience or ability to work within an aerospace environment is a plus including environmental test capability of hardware before/after vibration and inside a thermal vacuum chamber. Experience with modeling and simulation of optical systems using industry standard tools such as MATLAB, MATHCAD, ZEMAX or equivalent software tools Ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges demonstrating ingenuity and creativityExperience and expertise required: BS in Physics, Optical engineering or other related engineering specialties with a minimum of 3 years direct hands-on designing, building, and characterizing optical systems.

Efficient at developing and executing on complex optical alignment methods. Understanding of opto-mechanical, thermo-optic tolerance and stability. Knowledge of laser theory and industry best practices associated with fiber laser systems including continuous wave, pulsed, and high peak power fiber lasers.

Ability or interest in building fiber lasers. Ability to design and execute experiments validating communications system performance and correlate the results with the expected performance. Strong communication and documentation skills for efficient multidisciplinary coordination Desired qualifications: Experience or ability to work within an aerospace environment is a plus including environmental test capability of hardware before/after vibration and inside a thermal vacuum chamber.

Experience with modeling and simulation of optical systems using industry standard tools such as MATLAB, MATHCAD, ZEMAX or equivalent software tools Ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges demonstrating ingenuity and creativity

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