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Optical Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Jobtailor

Optical Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Determine optical specifications and system requirements for each product design, including wavelength selection, throughput, stray light, and signal-to-noise ratio * Select, evaluate, and qualify ...

CvilleBioHub

Optical Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Cerillo's Optical Engineer is a specialized member of the Engineering team responsible for designing, developing, and validating the precision optical systems at the heart of Cerillo's compact ...

Saic

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200 - $240/hr

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 ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$200K - $240K/yr

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 ...

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 devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

R0246988 Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

Share Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$131K - $170K/yr

Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...

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 devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$78 - $176/hr

As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex systems.That knowledge is key when it comes to the support and testing of electro-optic ( EO ) components for integration into high ...

BOOZ, ALLEN & HAMILTON, INC.

Optical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Optical Engineer The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As an optical engineer, you understand the power behind complex ...

ReFocus Eye Health

Optical Assistant

Reston, VA · On-site

Description We are seeking an energetic and customer-focused Optical Sales Associate to join our growing optical boutique within our medical ophthalmology practice. This role bridges medical eye care ...

ReFocus Eye Health

Optical Assistant

Reston, VA · On-site

Job Type Full-time Description We are seeking an energetic and customer-focused Optical Sales Associate to join our growing optical boutique within our medical ophthalmology practice. This role ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Position Overview QinetiQ US is looking for a Principal Optical Engineer experienced in electro-optic/ infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor optical design, laboratory optical characterization, and ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

$130K - $168K/yr

Position Overview QinetiQ US is looking for a Principal Optical Engineer experienced in electro-optic/ infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor optical design, laboratory optical characterization, and ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Position Overview QinetiQ US is looking for a Principal Optical Engineer experienced in electro-optic/ infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor optical design, laboratory optical characterization, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical JobsOptical Jobs in Virginia

Optical information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$21

$36

How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical in Virginia is $21.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are optical jobs?

Optical jobs refer to roles within the vision care and eyewear industry, such as opticians, optical assistants, and technicians. These professionals help customers select and fit eyeglasses or contact lenses, assist with vision tests, and provide support to optometrists and ophthalmologists. They may also perform repairs and adjustments on eyewear and educate customers about lens options and eye care. Working in optical jobs typically requires strong customer service skills and a basic understanding of eye anatomy and optical products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Technician, you need a strong understanding of optics, lens fabrication, and vision correction, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification. Familiarity with lensometers, auto-refractors, and optical dispensing software is typically required. Attention to detail, customer service skills, and effective communication help you excel when assisting patients and collaborating with eye care professionals. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate prescription fulfillment, patient satisfaction, and the smooth operation of optical services.

What are some common challenges faced by optical technicians, and how can they effectively address them?

Optical technicians often encounter challenges such as keeping up with evolving lens technologies, managing high volumes of customer orders, and ensuring precise fabrication and fitting of eyewear. Staying updated through ongoing training and certifications is essential to handle new equipment and materials. Additionally, strong communication and organizational skills help in coordinating with optometrists and delivering excellent customer service. Collaborating closely with the rest of the optical team ensures that patient needs are met efficiently and accurately.

What is the difference between an ophthalmologist, an optometrist, and an optician?

Optometrists and ophthalmologists are both medical eye care professionals, but they differ in their level of training. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors and complete eight years of medical school. They can practice medicine and perform surgery. Optometrists are not medical doctors. Optometrists earn a doctor of optometry degree after attending four years of optometry school. These professionals primarily perform eye exams and vision tests, but they can also identify some basic eye abnormalities. Optometrists are also licensed to prescribe some medications. Opticians are eyewear specialists and do not need any formal medical education.

What is the difference between Optical vs Optometrist?

AspectOpticalOptometrist
CredentialsTypically requires optical technician or assistant certificationRequires Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and licensure
Work EnvironmentOptical stores, eyewear retail, labsClinics, private practices, healthcare settings
Industry UsageFocuses on eyewear fitting, lens selection, customer serviceFocuses on eye exams, vision testing, diagnosing eye conditions

Optical roles mainly involve assisting with eyewear and customer service, while optometrists provide comprehensive eye care and diagnosis. Both are essential in eye health but differ significantly in education and scope of practice.

How long is schooling to become an optical?

Becoming an optical technician typically requires completing a post-secondary program or certificate that lasts from several months up to a year. For opticians, the process often involves completing an associate degree or a specialized training program, followed by certification or licensing depending on the state or country. Practical experience and knowledge of optical equipment are also important components of training.

Is optical technician a good career?

Optical technicians assist in the fabrication, repair, and fitting of eyeglasses and optical devices, often working in retail or laboratory settings. The role typically requires technical training or certification and offers steady employment with opportunities for advancement in the eye care industry.
More about Optical jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical jobs in Virginia?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Optical jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Optical jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Optical job openings:

Optical jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,210 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Jobtailor

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

  • Design and develop precision optical systems for compact multi-wavelength absorbance microplate readers, including illumination, beam-shaping, filtering, and photodetection sub-systems
  • Determine optical specifications and system requirements for each product design, including wavelength selection, throughput, stray light, and signal-to-noise ratio
  • Select, evaluate, and qualify optical components including light sources, photodetectors, filters, lenses, apertures, and any other relevant subsystems
  • Design mechanical mounts and alignment fixtures to hold optical components in precise geometric positions relative to each other and to the overall instrument, ensuring stable optical alignment through manufacturing and field conditions
  • Develop and repeatable alignment procedures to achieve specified photometric performance across the full wavelength range and across all plate positions
  • Design and build inspection instruments and test setups to characterize optical system performance, detect aberrations, stray light, cross-talk, and deviations from specification
  • Perform optical modeling and simulation using tools such as Zemax OpticStudio, FRED, or equivalent to predict system performance and guide design decisions
  • Collaborate with electrical engineers to define photodetector interface requirements, amplifier specifications, and light emission parameters
  • Collaborate with mechanical engineers to achieve compact, manufacturable optical enclosures with the required positional stability and environmental sealing
  • Develop test methods and acceptance criteria for optical performance at incoming inspection, production, and final qualification stages
  • Troubleshoot optical performance issues identified during development, testing, or production; implement and document corrective actions
  • Support regulatory documentation, risk management, and optical safety assessments as required
  • Contribute to new product concept development and product roadmap planning
  • Perform ad-hoc engineering tasks as directed by the Chief Executive Officer and/or Engineering leadership
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field required; Master's degree or Ph.D. preferred
  • 3+ years of experience in optical system design and development, preferably in scientific instrumentation, biomedical devices, or life sciences
  • Deep understanding of optical theory including photometry, radiometry, geometric optics, interference, and stray light analysis
  • Proficiency in optical design and simulation software such as Zemax OpticStudio, FRED, or equivalent
  • Hands-on experience designing and assembling precision optical systems including alignment, calibration, and performance verification
  • Experience with absorbance-based or transmittance-based photometric measurement systems strongly preferred
  • Experience designing optical component mounts, alignment mechanisms, and optomechanical interfaces
  • Knowledge of photodetector technologies (photodiodes, silicon photomultipliers, etc.) and their integration with low-noise electronics
  • Ability to develop and execute detailed optical test plans
  • Experience working cross-functionally with electrical and mechanical engineering teams
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a rigorous, data-driven approach to engineering decisions
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced startup environment.
Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in optical system design and development, including proficiency in optical modeling and simulation tools like Zemax OpticStudio and FRED. Capable of collaborating cross-functionally with engineering teams to ensure precision and performance in optical systems for scientific instrumentation.

Highest-signal resume keywords
  • Optical System Design
  • Zemax OpticStudio
  • Optical Component Evaluation
  • Photodetector Technologies
  • Optomechanical Interface Design
ATS Optimization KeywordsHard Skills
  • Optical Theory
  • Photometry
  • Radiometry
  • Geometric Optics
  • Stray Light Analysis
  • Optical Test Plans
  • Precision Optical Systems Assembly
  • Calibration
  • Performance Verification
  • Absorbance-Based Measurement Systems
Soft Skills
  • Analytical Skills
  • Problem-Solving
  • Communication
  • Collaboration
  • Independence
Certifications & Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Optical Engineering
  • Master's Degree or Ph.D. Preferred
Industry Keywords
  • Scientific Instrumentation
  • Biomedical Devices
  • Life Sciences
  • Optical Safety Assessments
  • Regulatory Documentation
Tools & Technologies
  • FRED
  • Optical Simulation Software
  • Test Setups
  • Inspection Instruments
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