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Optical Systems Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

As part of Ciena's Optical Systems Product Line Management organization, this role drives the strategy, definition, and lifecycle execution of industryleading optical systems. The position influences ...

Jr Optical Engineer

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$82K - $91K/yr

Support the planning, setup, and execution of optical metrology and alignment operations utilizing laser-based metrology systems and optical instrumentation. * Collect, analyze, and interpret ...

Optical Technician

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

The Optical Technician supports the development, integration, and testing of advanced optical systems for spaceflight, airborne, and ground-based applications. This role involves installing, aligning ...

The Optical Technician supports the development, integration, and testing of advanced optical systems for spaceflight, airborne, and ground-based applications. This role involves installing, aligning ...

Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · Hybrid

$180K - $200K/yr

Serve as a technical lead for optical systems, supporting development from concept through prototype, integration, and transition to production. * Perform Detection, Recognition, Identification (DRI ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Optical Systems information

See Washington salary details

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How much do optical systems jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical systems in Washington is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Optical Systems, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Optical Systems often encounter challenges such as precise alignment of optical components, maintaining system stability, and minimizing signal loss or distortion. These issues can be addressed by employing advanced alignment tools, rigorous quality control procedures, and thorough testing protocols. Collaboration with engineers and cross-disciplinary teams is also essential to troubleshoot and refine system designs. Staying updated with the latest technological advancements and standards in optics further helps in overcoming these challenges effectively.

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

To excel in Optical Systems, you need a solid background in optics, physics, and engineering, typically supported by a relevant degree such as optical engineering or applied physics. Familiarity with technical tools like Zemax, MATLAB, and CAD software, as well as experience with optical testing equipment, is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing, analyzing, and implementing high-performance optical solutions that meet precise technical requirements.

What is the difference between Optical Systems vs Optical Technicians?

AspectOptical SystemsOptical Technicians
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in optical engineering or related fieldOften requires technical certification or associate degree in optics or electronics
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, research facilities, manufacturing settingsOptical labs, repair shops, manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries like aerospace, defense, telecommunicationsCommonly employed in optical manufacturing, repair, and maintenance

Optical Systems professionals focus on designing and developing optical devices and systems, often requiring advanced degrees. Optical Technicians support these efforts through hands-on assembly, testing, and maintenance, typically with technical certifications. Both roles are vital in the optics industry but differ mainly in their responsibilities and educational requirements.

What are optical systems?

Optical systems are assemblies or setups that use light and lenses, mirrors, or other optical components to manipulate, control, or detect light for a variety of applications. These systems are found in devices like cameras, microscopes, telescopes, and fiber optics. They are essential in fields such as telecommunications, imaging, scientific research, and manufacturing, enabling precise measurement, visualization, and data transmission. Specialists in optical systems design, build, and maintain these complex assemblies to achieve specific optical performance.
Infographic showing various Optical Systems job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,499 per year, or $21.9 per hour.
Optical Communication Engineer

Optical Communication Engineer

Fibertek

Herndon, VA

$80K - $145K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based optical communications laser terminals including optical inter-satellite links (OISL) and direct to earth links. Fibertek is looking for an optical communication engineer to join our Herndon, VA team to help pave the way for tomorrow's advancement in space exploration. You will embrace a team atmosphere while being empowered to make decisions in your area of expertise.

Job duties: As an optical communications engineer, you will be responsible for designing and building optical space terminals. Work includes optical space lasercom design, hand-on building space flight optical flight terminals, and conducting performance and environmental verification testing for space. Design and work with some of the smartest minds in engineering actively involved in current high-profile NASA and DOD missions.

You will use your direct hands-on experience to support the build, alignment, and performance characterization of laser communication terminals, build space fiber lasers, and develop optical pointing and tracking systems. Activities include coordinating and performing formal acceptance and qualification testing across multiple concurrent projects with a mix of short-duration flight programs and long-duration technology maturation programs.Experience and expertise required: BS in Physics, Optical engineering or other related engineering specialties with a minimum of 3 years direct hands-on designing, building, and characterizing optical systems. Efficient at developing and executing on complex optical alignment methods

Understanding of opto-mechanical, thermo-optic tolerance and stability. Knowledge of laser theory and industry best practices associated with fiber laser systems including continuous wave, pulsed, and high peak power fiber lasers. Ability or interest in building fiber lasers.

Ability to design and execute experiments validating communications system performance and correlate the results with the expected performance. Strong communication and documentation skills for efficient multidisciplinary coordination Desired qualifications: Experience or ability to work within an aerospace environment is a plus including environmental test capability of hardware before/after vibration and inside a thermal vacuum chamber. Experience with modeling and simulation of optical systems using industry standard tools such as MATLAB, MATHCAD, ZEMAX or equivalent software tools Ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges demonstrating ingenuity and creativity Salary Range: The annual base salary range for this position is $80,000-$145,000.

This range reflects the compensation Fibertek reasonably expects to offer for this role. Placement within the range will depend on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education and training, key skills, and relevant market and business considerations.Experience and expertise required: BS in Physics, Optical engineering or other related engineering specialties with a minimum of 3 years direct hands-on designing, building, and characterizing optical systems. Efficient at developing and executing on complex optical alignment methods

Understanding of opto-mechanical, thermo-optic tolerance and stability. Knowledge of laser theory and industry best practices associated with fiber laser systems including continuous wave, pulsed, and high peak power fiber lasers. Ability or interest in building fiber lasers.

Ability to design and execute experiments validating communications system performance and correlate the results with the expected performance. Strong communication and documentation skills for efficient multidisciplinary coordination Desired qualifications: Experience or ability to work within an aerospace environment is a plus including environmental test capability of hardware before/after vibration and inside a thermal vacuum chamber. Experience with modeling and simulation of optical systems using industry standard tools such as MATLAB, MATHCAD, ZEMAX or equivalent software tools Ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges demonstrating ingenuity and creativity Salary Range: The annual base salary range for this position is $80,000-$145,000.

This range reflects the compensation Fibertek reasonably expects to offer for this role. Placement within the range will depend on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education and training, key skills, and relevant market and business considerations.