Optical Engineer
$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 ...
Optical Engineer
$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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
Optical Engineer
Lorton, VA · Hybrid
$180K - $200K/yr
Principal Optical Engineer We are seeking a Principal Optical Engineer to lead the design, integration, and validation of electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems across the full product ...
Quick apply
Optical Engineer
Lorton, VA · Hybrid
$180K - $200K/yr
Principal Optical Engineer We are seeking a Principal Optical Engineer to lead the design, integration, and validation of electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems across the full product ...
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 ...
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 ...
Optical Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$133K - $172K/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 ...
Optical Engineer
Chantilly, VA · On-site
$133K - $172K/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 ...
Optical Engineer
$132K - $171K/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 ...
Optical Engineer
$132K - $171K/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 ...
Licensed Optician
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...
Licensed Optician
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...
At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...
At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...
At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...
Quick apply
At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...
Principal Optical Engineer
$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 ...
Principal Optical Engineer
$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 ...
Optical Communication Engineer
Herndon, VA · On-site
$80K - $145K/yr
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 ...
Optical Communication Engineer
Herndon, VA · On-site
$80K - $145K/yr
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 ...
Principal Optical Engineer
$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 ...
Principal Optical Engineer
$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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
Principal Optical Engineer
$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 ...
Principal Optical Engineer
$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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
Optical Communication Engineer
Herndon, VA · On-site
$80K - $145K/yr
Job Title Optical Communication Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary) Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based ...
Optical Communication Engineer
Herndon, VA · On-site
$80K - $145K/yr
Job Title Optical Communication Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary) Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based ...
About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...
About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...
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 ...
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 ...
About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...
About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...
Optical information
See Virginia salary details
$10.96 - $13.32
3% of jobs
$13.32 - $15.69
16% of jobs
$16.21 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.69 - $18.05
27% of jobs
The median wage is $18.44 / hr.
$18.05 - $20.41
22% of jobs
$21.89 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.41 - $22.77
11% of jobs
$22.77 - $25.13
5% of jobs
$25.13 - $27.49
3% of jobs
$27.49 - $29.86
3% of jobs
$29.86 - $32.22
3% of jobs
$32.22 - $34.58
3% of jobs
$34.58 - $36.94
3% of jobs
$10
$21
$36
How much do optical jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 29, 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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?
In the optical field, high-paying roles such as specialized ophthalmologists or optometrists with extensive experience and advanced certifications can reach or exceed $500,000 annually. These positions often require advanced degrees, clinical expertise, and sometimes ownership of private practices or leadership roles in healthcare organizations.
Is optical technician a good career?
Optical technicians assist in the fabrication, repair, and fitting of eyeglasses and contact lenses, often working in optical labs or retail settings. The role typically requires technical skills, attention to detail, and may involve certification or training programs; job prospects are steady with opportunities for advancement in the optical industry.
How much money do opticians get paid?
Opticians typically earn a median annual salary of around $37,000 to $40,000, depending on experience, location, and certification. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, such as fitting complex lenses or working in high-demand areas, and may include benefits like health insurance and paid time off.
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 are the different careers in optometry?
Careers in optometry include optometrists who examine, diagnose, and treat eye conditions, as well as opticians who fit and dispense corrective lenses. Other roles include ophthalmic technicians, vision therapists, and practice managers, all working in clinical or retail settings. These careers often require specific certifications or licenses and involve skills in patient care, eye health, and use of diagnostic tools.
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 is the difference between Optical vs Optometrist?
| Aspect | Optical | Optometrist |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires optical technician or assistant certification | Requires Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and licensure |
| Work Environment | Optical stores, eyewear retail, labs | Clinics, private practices, healthcare settings |
| Industry Usage | Focuses on eyewear fitting, lens selection, customer service | Focuses 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.
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 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.
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:
SAIC rating
7.9
Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
76th of 230 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.
About Science Applications International
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