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Optical Scientist Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

STR

Senior Scientist - Optical Signal Processing

Arlington, VA · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

They are seeking a Senior Scientist to develop algorithms for airborne passive optical systems, focusing on detection and exploitation of targets in challenging environments. Responsibilities : • ...

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

$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 ...

KBR, Inc.

Optical Technician

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role involves installing, aligning, calibrating, and verifying optical instruments, components, and precision assemblies used in spacecraft and scientific missions. Key Responsibilities

KBR

Optical Technician

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role involves installing, aligning, calibrating, and verifying optical instruments, components, and precision assemblies used in spacecraft and scientific missions. Key Responsibilities

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Optical Scientist information

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How much do optical scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical scientist in Washington is $24.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $23.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical scientist do?

An Optical Scientist researches and develops technologies related to the behavior and manipulation of light. They work in fields like telecommunications, healthcare, defense, and manufacturing, applying principles of optics, physics, and engineering to solve complex problems. Their work often involves designing optical systems, developing new imaging techniques, or enhancing laser technologies. Optical Scientists may also collaborate with engineers and researchers to create cutting-edge optical devices for practical applications.

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

To thrive as an Optical Scientist, you need a strong background in physics, optics, or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree such as a Master's or Ph.D. Expertise with laser systems, optical simulation software (like Zemax or Code V), and laboratory instrumentation is commonly required in this role. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and collaborative skills help Optical Scientists excel in multidisciplinary research and development teams. These abilities are vital for advancing innovative optical technologies, solving complex problems, and driving successful project outcomes.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Scientist jobs in Washington?

For Optical Scientist jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Scientist jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Scientist jobs in Washington are:

Optical Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Scientist job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,363 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Senior Scientist - Optical Signal Processing

STR

Arlington, VA • On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Summary:
STR is a technology company specializing in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security. The Senior Scientist will develop state-of-the-art algorithms for airborne passive optical systems, focusing on detection and exploitation of targets in challenging environments.
Responsibilities:
• Work closely with program leadership to spearhead efforts that align with program and company priorities
• Conceive, prototype, test, and mature image processing algorithms for critical national security missions
• Document and present products to a community of scientists and subject matter experts
Qualifications:
Required:
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by U.S. Government
• BA, or MS in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or related technical discipline
• 3-5+ years of relevant work experience
• Expertise in two or more of the following areas: Signal processing, Fourier analysis, linear estimation, optimization, adaptive signal processing, AI/ML algorithm development, algorithm development, modeling & simulation, systems engineering, optics modelling
• Experience building and delivering technical briefs to peers, senior level executives, and customers
• Proficiency in one or more scientific or mathematical programming languages, such as MATLAB, Python, and C/C++
• Experienced researcher and team member who is excited to work with mission partners to leverage cutting-edge technology and research for immediate impact
• Excellent communicator and briefer, who is comfortable communicating with both technical and non-technical audiences
• Strong mathematical, written, and verbal communication skills
Preferred:
• Active Secret or TS/SCI Clearance
• Demonstrated leadership of complex research, development, and engineering efforts
• Experience with: Passive optical technologies in the defense sector, particularly airborne, downward-looking sensors
• Computer vision techniques such as feature identification/matching/tracking, optical flow, background subtraction, etc
• Interacting with decision-makers and customers to translate mission needs into an end-to-end solution
• Demonstrated ability to conceive, prototype, test, and mature novel algorithms for challenging sensors
Company:
STR is built on people & technology platforms tackling tough problems in cybersecurity, distributed sensing & artificial. Founded in 2010, the company is headquartered in Woburn, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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