ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optics Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

ReFocus Eye Health

Optical Assistant

Reston, VA

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 ...

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 ...

Columbia Eye Associates LLC

Optician

Columbia, MD · On-site

$18 - $27/hr

Optician / Optical Sales Associate Columbia Eye Associates Columbia, Maryland Full-Time | Competitive Pay | Benefits Available At Columbia Eye Associates, we believe patients should feel welcomed ...

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 US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) * EOIR sensors * Tactical lasers, Class 1-4 * Optical boresight and ...

KBR, Inc.

Optical Technician

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

Optical Technician Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! Around here, we define the future. The Optical Technician supports the development, integration, and testing of advanced optical systems for ...

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), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) * EOIR sensors * Tactical lasers, Class 1-4 * Optical boresight and ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) * EOIR sensors * Tactical lasers, Class 1-4 * Optical boresight and ...

KBR

Optical Technician

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

Optical Technician Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! Around here, we define the future. The Optical Technician supports the development, integration, and testing of advanced optical systems for ...

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

$164K - $213K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) * EOIR sensors * Tactical lasers, Class 1-4 * Optical boresight and ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) * EOIR sensors * Tactical lasers, Class 1-4 * Optical boresight and ...

Refocus Eye Health

Optical Assistant

Reston, VA · On-site

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 and retail ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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.

Part-Time Laser/Optics SME, TS/SCI

Blue Sky Innovators

Arlington, VA

$70 - $120/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Level of Effort (FTE): 0.5 FTE

Clearance Required: U.S. citizenship and active Top-Secret clearance, with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Program eligibility, is required.

Description:

Candidates sought to provide laser or optics SME support. The successful candidate will support the DARPA program manager by providing technical advice and analysis of multiple innovative designs for Laser or Optical systems. A successful candidate will be able to work effectively in a team, and interface with both industry and National Lab personnel to advise on architecture and technology.  This position will also include overseeing contract execution, coordinating and collaborating with Govt mission partners, and communicating status/results by preparing and delivering program briefings.

Requirements:

  • 10+ years of relevant experience in laser, High energy laser or complex optical systems
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant technical field
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Strong communication skills - both written (including PowerPoint) and oral
  • Strong organization skills with the ability to multi-task and respond to urgent requests
  • Work on-site at DARPA HQ (Arlington, VA) daily
  • Travel to support program up to 15% duty factor

Preferred Capabilities:

  • Mission focus with enthusiasm for daily work
  • Clear, concise, direct communication
  • Interest in continuous learning and technical exploration
  • Experience working at the Top Secret, SCI, and SAP levels
  • Experience with DARPA project management
  • Experience leading small teams on technical projects
  • Experience and enthusiasm for technical brainstorming

Responsibilities:

  • Manage execution of ongoing demonstration activities
  • Participate in technical discussions and provide independent advice
  • Organize and coordinate activities of a dispersed multidisciplinary team
  • Develop technical documentation and briefs to communicate program status
  • Coordinate stakeholder engagement across multiple national agencies and services
  • Develop transition plans and relationships

Hourly range for the position is $70-$120/hr. Specific compensation will be determined by several factors including experience, education, skills, and knowledge. 

Apply