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Optical Lab Jobs in Sterling, VA (NOW HIRING)

Saic

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200 - $240/hr

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 ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

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 ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

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 ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

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 ...

EssilorLuxottica Group

Team Lead

Rockville, MD · On-site

Assists in the achievement of store success by managing key optical & lab processes (if applicable) & systems to exceptional results. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES While working in Retail

Essilor

Team Lead

Rockville, MD · On-site

Assists in the achievement of store success by managing key optical & lab processes (if applicable) & systems to exceptional results. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES While working in Retail

New

EssilorLuxottica

Team Lead

Rockville, MD · On-site

Assists in the achievement of store success by managing key optical & lab processes (if applicable) & systems to exceptional results. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES While working in Retail

Rocket Lab Corporation

Sr. FPGA Engineer II

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$107K - $146K/yr

SENIOR FIRMWARE ENGINEER II Rocket Lab Optical Systems solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance challenges for Department of Defense and Intelligence ...

Rocket Lab Corporation

Sr. FPGA Engineer II

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$143K - $214K/yr

SENIOR FIRMWARE ENGINEER II Rocket Lab Optical Systems solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance challenges for Department of Defense and Intelligence ...

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All JobsOptical Lab JobsOptical Lab Jobs in Sterling, VA

Optical Lab information

See Sterling, VA salary details

$11

$21

$55

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Sterling, VA is $21.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical lab?

An optical lab is a specialized facility where prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other optical devices are manufactured and assembled. These labs use advanced machinery and skilled technicians to cut, grind, and coat lenses according to a patient's prescription. Optical labs also fit lenses into frames, check for quality, and ensure that each pair of glasses meets the required standards for vision correction and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical lab technician?

To thrive as an Optical Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of lens fabrication, optical measurements, and quality control, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training in optics. Familiarity with lens edgers, surfacing machines, and digital measurement systems is essential, and certifications from organizations like the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) can be beneficial. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving skills help ensure precision and efficiency in daily tasks. These skills are critical for producing high-quality eyewear that meets both industry standards and customer needs.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in an optical lab and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in an Optical Lab often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise quality control, managing high volumes of orders, and adapting to rapidly evolving lens technologies. Attention to detail is crucial, as even small errors can impact a patient's vision and satisfaction. To address these challenges, it’s important to follow strict standard operating procedures, utilize continuous training on new equipment, and foster strong communication with optometrists and sales teams to ensure accuracy and timely delivery.

What is the difference between Optical Lab vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical LabOptical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in lens fabricationHigh school diploma, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing setting, working with lens equipmentRetail or clinical setting, assisting with eyewear fitting
Job FocusFabricating and finishing lensesAssisting with eyewear adjustments and measurements

Optical Lab and Optical Technician roles are related but distinct. The Optical Lab primarily focuses on lens fabrication and finishing in a manufacturing environment, requiring specialized skills and equipment. In contrast, Optical Technicians often work directly with customers or in retail settings, assisting with eyewear fitting and adjustments. Both roles require knowledge of optics but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

How to work at an optical lab?

To work at an optical lab, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require training in lens fabrication, edging, and inspection. Familiarity with optical tools and safety procedures is important, and some positions may require certification or on-the-job training. Attention to detail and manual dexterity are essential skills for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab jobs in Sterling, VA?

For Optical Lab jobs in Sterling, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Optical Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Sterling, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,912 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Saic

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$200 - $240/hr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

SAIC rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 226 rated it services

Job description

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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