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Optics Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

F2Onsite

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Data Center Fiber Optic Technician - Second Shift

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$30 - $34/hr

Data Center Fiber Optic Technician - Ashburn, VA * 2nd Shift - 4pm-12am * Start - End of July - Dec 2026 * Must have prior experience working in a Data Center Environment We are seeking an ...

F2Onsite

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Data Center Fiber Optic Technician - First Shift

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Data Center Fiber Optic Technician - Ashburn, VA * 1st Shift 8-5pm * Start - End of July - Dec 2026 * Must have prior experience working in a Data Center Environment We are seeking an experienced ...

E2 Optics

Technical Training Specialist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Why E2 Optics? Join our team and shape the future of connectivity: Technical Training Specialist at E2 Optics! Are you ready to elevate your career with an award-winning, Woman-Owned technology ...

E2 Optics

Technical Training Specialist

Ashburn, VA

E2 Optics is one of the fastest-growing and most stable companies at the core of the tech industry--powering the infrastructure behind AI, cloud computing, and the innovations of tomorrow. At E2 ...

See Clearly

Optician

Mclean, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Optician At Vision Innovation Partners, we exist to protect and restore vision. Because Vision is our Mission, everyone at VIP focuses on providing great patient outcomes and experiences. A career at ...

Malouf Eye Center

Optician

Suitland, MD · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

Optician At Vision Innovation Partners, we exist to protect and restore vision. Because Vision is our Mission, everyone at VIP focuses on providing great patient outcomes and experiences. A career at ...

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 ...

Pearle Vision of Glen Burnie MD

Optician

Glen Burnie, MD · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Optical Retail Sales Associate We are seeking a highly motivated and customer-oriented Optical Retail Sales Associate to join our team at Pearle Vision of Glen Burnie MD. The basic function of the ...

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 ...

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All JobsOptics JobsOptics Jobs in Washington

Optics information

See Washington salary details

$94K

$162.7K

$190.8K

How much do optics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for optics in Washington is $162,653.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,100.00 and $189,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is optics?

Optics jobs involve working with the science and technology of light, including its generation, manipulation, transmission, and detection. Professionals in this field may work as optical engineers, technicians, or researchers, designing lenses, lasers, fiber optics, and imaging systems for applications in industries like telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, and defense. These roles often require a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering, and they can be found in both research and practical, hands-on settings.

What is a job in optics?

A job in optics involves designing, testing, and manufacturing optical devices such as lenses, microscopes, and lasers. Professionals in this field often work in research, development, or manufacturing environments and may require knowledge of physics, engineering, and specialized tools like optical testing equipment.

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

To thrive as an Optics Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and optical engineering, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laser systems, and photonics instrumentation is commonly required, along with relevant certifications. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating on complex projects and conveying technical information. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing innovative optical systems, ensuring precision, and meeting project requirements in industries like telecommunications, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Is optics a good career?

Optics is a specialized field within physics and engineering that involves designing and developing optical systems, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. It offers opportunities in research, manufacturing, and technology development, often requiring strong technical skills and knowledge of physics and mathematics. The career can be stable and well-paying for those with relevant education and experience.

What jobs use optics?

Jobs that use optics include optical engineers, laser technicians, and photonics scientists, who design, develop, and test optical systems and devices. These roles often require knowledge of optics principles, precision measurement tools, and sometimes security clearances or specialized certifications. Industries include telecommunications, aerospace, medical devices, and defense.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in optics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in optics often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies, ensuring precision in measurements and alignments, and troubleshooting complex optical systems. To address these issues, it's important to stay current through continued education, collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, and develop strong problem-solving skills. Many optics roles also emphasize hands-on experience and the ability to adapt to new tools or software, so proactive learning and effective communication are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Optics vs Optical Technician?

AspectOpticsOptical Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in physics, optics, or related fieldOften requires a certificate or associate degree in optical technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, academiaOptical labs, manufacturing facilities, retail optical stores
Industry UsageResearch, development, manufacturing of optical devicesAssembly, testing, and fitting of optical instruments and eyewear

Optics generally refers to the scientific study and development of light and optical systems, often requiring advanced education. Optical Technicians focus on assembling, testing, and maintaining optical devices, typically with technical certifications. While both roles work within the optical industry, Optics is more research-oriented, whereas Optical Technicians are more hands-on in manufacturing and service environments.

What are popular job titles related to Optics jobs in Washington? For Optics jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optics jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Optics jobs in Washington are:
Optics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optics job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,653 per year, or $78.2 per hour.

Optics Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research

Job description

Description
Do you love to apply complex scientific concepts to real world applications?
Are you searching for meaningful work in remote sensing?
Are you hoping to join a dynamic and innovative team?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
We are seeking a motivated experienced scientist or engineer to help us advance our work in remote sensing, laser systems and novel EO/IR instrumentation. As a member of the Optics and Photonics Group, your work will help inform decision makers in the defense community to solve our nation's critical challenges. You will contribute to system modeling and model validation through real world data collection, data analysis and prototype system development. You will be joining a hardworking team of engineers and scientists who enjoy working hands-on in the lab and in the field. We are passionate about applying optics and photonics technology to high-impact next-generation applications in sensing, communications, kinetic effects and non-kinetic warfare. Our team is committed to fostering a welcoming atmosphere as we work across a multi faceted set of skillsets and backgrounds to solve complex challenges.
As an experienced optics engineer...
  • Your primary responsibilities will include identifying and executing technical courses of action to meet mission requirements. This may include modeling, data analysis, hardware development, and laboratory and field experimentation.
  • You will mentor and train other staff members to continue building world class expertise.
  • You will simulate and test EO/IR sensors and systems, performing radiometric analyses in real world settings.
  • You will work with systems engineers across the lab to understand mission requirements and research ways to improve them.
  • You will make an impact by detailing work into formal and informal technical reports, including presentations, conference proceedings, and journal articles.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a B.S. or M.S. degree in electrical engineering, physics, optics, or a related field.
  • Have a minimum of 5 years experience in the modeling/simulation, development, and characterization of EO/IR sensors and systems.
  • Possess strong teaming skills and have demonstrated experience working across multidisciplinary teams to solve complex problems.
  • Have strong oral and written communication skills and experience communicating key information to stakeholders through formal briefings and reports.
  • Hold an active Top Secret security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have a Ph.D. in electrical engineering, physics, optics or a related field.
  • Have 10+ years of experience in the modeling/simulation, development, and characterization of EO/IR sensors and systems.
  • Have experience in optical alignment, laser diagnostics and system prototyping.
  • Have developed and fielded EO/IR sensors and systems
  • Have field test experience and an interest in travel.
  • Have modeling and simulation experience in MODTRAN.
  • Have experience in applied spectroscopy, laser propagation modeling and applications for remote sensing.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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