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Optical Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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

Optical Component Assembler

Herndon, VA

$24 - $38/hr

This position will work closely with engineers and technicians to assemble precision optical and mechanical components into prototype and deliverable laser hardware. Unlike a high-volume ...

TalentRemedy

Purple Squirrel

Herndon, VA

$185K - $238K/yr

You spend an hour reviewing a Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) update. You're looking for the "hidden" risks: Will this optical coating degrade under the specific radiation profile of this ...

SAIC

Electro Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Electro-Optical (EO) Engineer to join Landmark AOS, SAIC ...

Psionic

Silicon Photonics Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

A breadth of engineering expertise building real world high-speed, electro-optical systems is needed. Excellent communications skills are critical for success. The successful candidate requires ...

Psionic, LLC

Silicon Photonics Engineer

Hampton, VA

A breadth of engineering expertise building real world high-speed, electro-optical systems is needed. Excellent communications skills are critical for success. The successful candidate requires ...

Psionic

Silicon Photonics Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

A breadth of engineering expertise building real world high-speed, electro-optical systems is needed. Excellent communications skills are critical for success.The successful candidate requires ...

Psionic

Silicon Photonics Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

A breadth of engineering expertise building real world high-speed, electro-optical systems is needed. Excellent communications skills are critical for success.The successful candidate requires ...

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Optical Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$21

$51

$115

How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 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.

Senior Solid State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead

Herndon, VA • On-site

TalentRemedy
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about TalentRemedyexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead the architecture, development, and delivery of advanced solid-state laser systems for airborne and space-based programs.

  • Serve as a technical lead by translating requirements into technical plans, guiding design reviews, risk assessments, and milestone execution.

  • Mentor junior engineers, coordinate with cross-functional teams, and support customer interactions and technical reviews.

Job description

Our client is seeking a Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead to drive the architecture, development, and delivery of advanced solid-state laser systems for airborne and space-based government aerospace programs. This individual will serve as both a deep technical authority and a program catalyst - leading laser system design while motivating cross-functional teams to execute on aggressive technical milestones. The ideal candidate combines strong theoretical and modeling expertise with demonstrated experience pushing complex hardware programs from concept through integration and qualification.

Key Responsibilities Technical Leadership Architect and lead development of advanced solid-state laser systems including: Oscillators (linear and ring) MOPA (Master Oscillator Power Amplifier) architectures OPO/OPA systems Single-frequency / narrow-linewidth lasers Frequency conversion stages (SHG, THG, nonlinear mixing) Own cavity design, gain modeling, thermal analysis, and system energetics Lead nonlinear optics development and frequency conversion optimization Guide LIDAR transmitter laser development for airborne and space platforms Perform system-level optical modeling and tolerance analysis (Zemax) Ensure performance, reliability, and environmental robustness Program Execution & Team Leadership Serve as technical lead for laser subsystem programs Translate high-level requirements into executable technical plans Drive design reviews, risk assessments, and milestone execution Identify technical risks early and develop mitigation strategies 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 Support customer interactions and government technical reviews Required Qualifications M.S. or Ph.D. in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field 5+ years of experience in solid-state laser development (2-8+ years post-graduate experience depending on degree) Demonstrated experience leading technical efforts or small engineering teams Demonstrated deep expertise in at least one of the following areas: Laser resonator stability and design Gain media physics and thermal management Nonlinear optics and frequency conversion Single longitudinal mode and narrow-linewidth operation Experience designing and modeling: High peak power or high pulse energy systems MOPA systems Nonlinear frequency conversion, OPO/OPA architectures Strong proficiency with optical modeling tools (e.g

Zemax) Experience delivering hardware into airborne or space environments preferred U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a security clearance Preferred Qualifications Experience developing laser systems for LIDAR applications Diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) laser expertise Experience with environmental qualification (e.g. thermal, vibration, vacuum) Radiation effects awareness for space-based systems Experience working on DoD or aerospace prime contracts Track record of taking laser systems from concept to flight qualification Leadership Profile We're Seeking Naturally assumes ownership of technical outcomes Drives momentum - does not wait for direction Communicates clearly with engineers, management, and customers Balances deep physics rigor with practical program execution Mentors junior staff and raises overall team capability Comfortable operating in high-visibility, mission-critical programs

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