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Optical Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$200K - $240K/yr

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: No Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI ... Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: No Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI ... Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems ...

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 ...

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 ... Ability to design and execute experiments validating communications system performance and ...

Fibertek

Aerospace Payload Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$90K - $160K/yr

A bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or optics 5 years of relevant experience preferred ... systems engineering Written and verbal technical communication skills Leadership experience ...

Actalent

Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · Hybrid

$180K - $200K/yr

Principal Optical Engineer We are seeking a Principal Optical Engineer to lead the design ... Serve as a technical lead for optical systems, supporting development from concept through ...

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 ... Ability to design and execute experiments validating communications system performance and ...

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 ...

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All JobsOptical Systems Engineer JobsOptical Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Optical Systems Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$82.3K

$142.4K

$167.1K

How much do optical systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical systems engineer in Virginia is $142,379.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,900.00 and $165,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Optical Systems Engineers?

Optical Systems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and optimize systems that use light, such as cameras, telescopes, lasers, and fiber optic communication devices. They apply principles of optics, physics, and engineering to create solutions for imaging, sensing, and transmitting information. Their work often involves selecting components, modeling optical performance, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to integrate optical technologies into larger systems. Optical Systems Engineers are essential in industries like aerospace, telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics.

What types of projects and teams do Optical Systems Engineers typically work with, and how does collaboration factor into daily responsibilities?

Optical Systems Engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, as well as project managers and manufacturing specialists. Their daily responsibilities usually involve designing, testing, and optimizing optical components or systems, such as lenses, lasers, or imaging devices. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as they must integrate optical solutions with other engineering domains and ensure all system requirements are met. Collaborative problem-solving and regular cross-functional meetings are common, making strong interpersonal skills valuable in this role.

What is the difference between Optical Systems Engineer vs Optical Design Engineer?

AspectOptical Systems EngineerOptical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; often certifications in optical designBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; certifications in optical design software
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, R&D departments, often cross-disciplinary teamsDesign studios, R&D labs, manufacturing, focused on optical component and system design
Employer & Industry UsageOptical, aerospace, defense, telecommunications, imaging industriesOptical, consumer electronics, aerospace, defense, medical devices

Optical Systems Engineers focus on integrating optical components into complete systems, ensuring functionality and performance. Optical Design Engineers primarily develop and optimize individual optical components and assemblies. Both roles require strong optical knowledge, but their focus differs from system integration to component design.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Systems Engineer, you need strong knowledge in optics, physics, and engineering principles, 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 measurement instruments is often required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and solving complex problems. These skills and qualifications ensure precise system design, efficient troubleshooting, and successful project outcomes in the development of advanced optical technologies.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Optical Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Systems Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,379 per year, or $68.5 per hour.
Optical Engineer

Optical Engineer

SAIC

Chantilly, VA

$200K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 210 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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