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Remote Optical Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Scout Space

Optomechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$120K - $200K/yr

Collaborate with systems, electrical, optical, and software engineers to integrate subsystems into ... Our positions are based in Reston, Virginia, with much of our team operating in a hybrid or remote ...

Scout Space

Optomechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$120K - $200K/yr

Collaborate with systems, electrical, optical, and software engineers to integrate subsystems into ... Our positions are based in Reston, Virginia, with much of our team operating in a hybrid or remote ...

Accrete

Senior Platform Engineer (Remote)

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$180K - $200K/yr

In person in Lower Manhattan, NY or Alexandria, VA or Remote About Accrete: Accrete is a dynamic ... The Senior Platform Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for designing, implementing ...

U.S. Marine Corps

GENERAL ENGINEER

Quantico, VA · On-site +1

$102K - $158K/yr

... remote or isolated sites. You must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for ... Squad, Recon, Optics) - Combat Equipment and Support Systems (i.e., Chemical Biological ...

U.S. Marine Corps

INTERDISCIPLINARY ENGINEER

Quantico, VA · On-site +1

$102K - $158K/yr

... remote or isolated sites. You must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for ... Squad, Recon, Optics) - Combat Equipment and Support Systems (i.e., Chemical Biological ...

Scout Space

Satellite Electrical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

Experience designing optical, radio frequency (RF), and/or high power avionics * Experience with ... Our positions are based in Reston, Virginia, with much of our team operating in a hybrid or remote ...

Scout Space

Satellite Electrical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

Experience designing optical, radio frequency (RF), and/or high power avionics * Experience with ... Our positions are based in Reston, Virginia, with much of our team operating in a hybrid or remote ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsRemote Optical Engineer JobsRemote Optical Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Remote Optical Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$94K

$162.7K

$190.8K

How much do remote optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote optical engineer in Washington, DC 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 a remote optical engineer?

A Remote Optical Engineer designs, analyzes, and tests optical systems and components while working from a remote location. They may be involved in developing lenses, fiber optics, laser systems, or imaging technologies for industries like telecommunications, healthcare, or aerospace. Using simulations and modeling software, they optimize optical performance and troubleshoot design challenges. Collaboration with teams happens virtually, requiring strong communication skills. This role often demands expertise in optics, photonics, and related engineering principles.

What projects or challenges does a remote optical engineer typically work on?

As a Remote Optical Engineer, you may work on projects ranging from designing lenses or laser systems to optimizing fiber optic communications or developing imaging devices. Common challenges include troubleshooting optical alignment remotely, accurately simulating system performance, and ensuring close collaboration with mechanical and electrical engineering teams across different time zones. The ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and navigate virtual project management tools is essential for success. These diverse projects offer opportunities to innovate, enhance your technical skills, and contribute to cutting-edge technologies from anywhere.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a remote optical engineer?

To excel as a Remote Optical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of optics, photonics, and optical system design, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation tools such as Zemax or LightTools, CAD software, and possibly certifications in optical engineering or fiber optics is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving, effective communication, and self-motivation are key soft skills, especially when working remotely. These skills are vital for delivering precise optical solutions, collaborating efficiently across virtual teams, and managing projects independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Remote Optical Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Remote Optical Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Optical Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Optical Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Remote Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Optical Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,653 per year, or $78.2 per hour.

Optomechanical Engineer

Scout Space

Reston, VA • On-site, Remote

$120K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Scout Space is building a new way to see and operate in space: with a new paradigm of data empowering every satellite to make space safer. We are a rapidly-growing team; we are deploying real solutions to orbit over the next 2 years; and our work will transform the face of spaceflight. We are looking for people that bring excitement and energy to our organization, are curious and eager to learn, and want to help drive our programs forward.
We are seeking an Optomechanical Engineer to lead design and development of Scout hardware systems. In this role, you will play a crucial role in the hardware design and development of Scout's on-orbit perception and autonomy capabilities.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop detailed mechanical designs for complex optomechanical space payloads
  • Collaborate with systems, electrical, optical, and software engineers to integrate subsystems into designs
  • Build and test prototype systems for design validation
  • Perform component- and system-level thermal, shock/vibe, and motion analysis

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
  • 3-5 years of mechanical design experience, preferably for complex electro-optomechanical systems
  • Expert SolidWorks user
  • Thorough understanding of material properties and tolerancing
  • Enthusiastic attitude towards individual and team work and collaborating with geographically diverse offices
  • Track record of component design lifecycle completion, including design, manufacture, assembly, test, and integration
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts and technical information clearly and concisely.
  • Eligible to hold a security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of space environment considerations
  • Deep understanding of material properties and tolerancing
  • Ability to tackle multiple projects simultaneously
  • Experience working and collaborating in a fast-paced, small team environment.

Benefits
  • Open Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • 401k Matching
  • Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, Dependent Care FSA
  • Wellness Stipend
  • Work From Home Stipend
  • Life Insurance
  • Long-term Disability plans
  • Commuter Benefit
  • Education Reimbursement

Don't fulfill all the qualifications listed above? If you still feel like you might be a good fit, please feel free to APPLY ANYWAY. We believe in a well-rounded team, and this sometimes means that someone with out-of-context knowledge can contribute just as well as someone with very explicit alignment with our capabilities needs stated.
Our positions are based in Reston, Virginia, with much of our team operating in a hybrid or remote fashion. Our preference is for candidates in or around this area (or willing to relocate) as we scale our facilities and engineering team to provide more opportunities to work and collaborate in-person.
This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant's capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls.
Scout Space Inc. does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. To conform to US Government space technology export regulations, applicants must be a US citizen, lawful permanent resident of the US, a protected individual as defined by 8 USC 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorization from the US Department of State.
We're Proud to Prioritize Mental Health. Scout Space has been recognized with the Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health by Mental Health America. This certification reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a supportive environment where mental well-being is valued, protected, and openly talked about. We know that when people feel seen and supported, great work happens, and that is the kind of culture we are building here at Scout Space.
Compensation is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Summary pay range: $120,000 - $200,000

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