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Optics Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$200K - $240K/yr

... 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 ...

Saic

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200 - $240/hr

... 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 ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

... 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 ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

... 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 ...

CvilleBioHub

Optical Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Cerillo's Optical Engineer is a specialized member of the Engineering team responsible for ... optics, interference, and stray light analysis * Proficiency in optical design and simulation ...

Fibertek

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 ...

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) Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

$130K - $168K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR ... Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support the entire product life cycle, from ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR ... Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support the entire product life cycle, from ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR ... Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support the entire product life cycle, from ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

$164K - $213K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR ... Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support the entire product life cycle, from ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR ... Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support the entire product life cycle, from ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

$130K - $168K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR ... Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support the entire product life cycle, from ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$100 - $135/hr

Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Principal Optical Engineer with strong laboratory and prototype integration experience to support system integration on multiple defense ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptics Engineer JobsOptics Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Optics Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$82.3K

$142.4K

$167.1K

How much do optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for optics 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 some common challenges optics engineers face when working on interdisciplinary teams?

Optics Engineers often collaborate with professionals from fields such as mechanical engineering, electronics, and software development. A common challenge is ensuring that optical specifications align with mechanical constraints and electronic system requirements, which may require frequent communication and compromise. Misunderstandings can arise due to differences in terminology or priorities, so effective cross-disciplinary communication is essential. Additionally, balancing project timelines and integrating feedback from various stakeholders can require strong organizational and interpersonal skills.

What is the difference between Optics Engineer vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptics EngineerOptical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optics, physics, or engineering; often requires experience in design and analysisAssociate's degree or technical certification in optics or related field; focuses on assembly and testing
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D departments, manufacturing facilitiesManufacturing floors, testing labs, assembly lines
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, aerospace, defense, research institutionsManufacturers, optical labs, repair facilities

Optics Engineers focus on designing and developing optical systems, requiring advanced education and analytical skills. Optical Technicians primarily handle assembly, testing, and maintenance of optical devices, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the optical industry but differ in responsibilities, education, and work environment.

What does an optics engineer do?

An Optics Engineer designs, tests, and improves devices and systems that use light, such as lenses, lasers, microscopes, and fiber optics. They apply principles of physics and engineering to develop technologies for industries like telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, and defense. Their work involves research, computer modeling, prototyping, and working closely with other engineers to ensure optimal performance and efficiency of optical systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optics engineer?

To thrive as an Optics Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and optical engineering, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and laboratory equipment is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities ensure precise optical system design, innovation, and successful project execution in industries like telecommunications, defense, and medical devices.
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What cities in Virginia are hiring for Optics Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Optics Engineer job openings:
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Optics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optics Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,379 per year, or $68.5 per hour.

Optical Engineer

SAIC

Chantilly, VA

$200K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 223 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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