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Optical Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$200K - $240K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems ...

Saic

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200 - $240/hr

Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems ...

Jobtailor

Optical Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Perform ad-hoc engineering tasks as directed by the Chief Executive Officer and/or Engineering leadership Requirements * Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field required;

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$80K - $145K/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

$80K - $145K/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 ...

CvilleBioHub

Optical Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

... member of the Engineering team responsible for designing, developing, and validating the precision optical systems at the heart of Cerillo's compact microplate readers. Drawing on a deep ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex systems. That knowledge is key ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex systems. That knowledge is key ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$78 - $176/hr

What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex systems. That knowledge is key ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA

$131K - $170K/yr

What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex systems.That knowledge is key ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex systems. That knowledge is key ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$78 - $176/hr

What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex systems.That knowledge is key ...

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Optical Engineering information

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How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,072 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Optical Engineer

SAIC

Chantilly, VA

$200K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 225 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2614292

Location: Chantilly, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-07-07

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Systems Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI_wPoly

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

SAIC has an opening for an Electrical Engineer with a strong background in Optical Engineering, Fiber Optics, and Telecommunications. The candidate should have experience or a willingness to work in a lab environment, contributing to innovative projects and advancing technological capabilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics:
    • Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices
    • Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems and components to ensure optimal performance
    • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical solutions into broader telecommunications frameworks
  • Telecommunications:
    • Develop and implement telecommunications systems and solutions, focusing on enhancing network efficiency and reliability
    • Conduct performance evaluations and troubleshooting of telecommunications systems
      Stay updated on emerging telecommunications technologies and integrate relevant advancements into ongoing projects
  • Lab Environment:
    • Participate actively in lab-based projects, including setup, calibration, and maintenance of experimental and testing equipment
    • Conduct experiments and tests to validate the performance and reliability of optical and telecommunications systems
    • Analyze and document results, providing detailed reports and recommendations for improvements

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field
  • Must currently hold a TS/SCI and Poly clearance
  • Minimum of 10 years of relevant technical experience
  • Proven experience in optical engineering, fiber optics, and telecommunications
  • Hands-on experience working in a lab environment, including setup, calibration, and maintenance of testing equipment
  • Experience with design, development, and testing of optical components and telecommunications systems

Preferred:

  • Experience with LTEs and other advanced telecommunications technologies
  • Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements for telecommunications and optical engineering

Target salary range: $200,001 - $240,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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