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Senior Electro Optical Engineer Jobs in Washington

Electro Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a Electro-Optical (EO) Engineer to join Landmark AOS, SAIC's Prime SETA ... Advise senior and mid-level government leadership on architectural decisions, investment strategies ...

Electro Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Electro-Optical (EO) Engineer to join Landmark AOS, SAIC ... Advise senior and mid-level government leadership on architectural decisions, investment strategies ...

Electro Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... Advise senior and mid‑level government leadership on architectural decisions, investment ...

Title: Sr. Optical Designer /Analyst Position Summary KBR is looking for a Senior Level Optical or electro-optical Designer / Analyst who will work with other optical engineers in design, analysis ...

Title: Sr. Optical Designer /Analyst Position Summary KBR is looking for a Senior Level Optical or electro-optical Designer / Analyst who will work with other optical engineers in design, analysis ...

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Senior Electro Optical Engineer information

What does a senior electro optical engineer do?

A Senior Electro Optical Engineer designs, develops, and tests optical and electro-optical systems such as lasers, sensors, and imaging devices. They work on projects involving the integration of electronics and optics to create advanced technologies for industries like defense, telecommunications, and medical devices. Their responsibilities also include overseeing prototypes, troubleshooting complex issues, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure systems meet technical specifications and regulatory standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior electro optical engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Electro Optical Engineer, you need a strong background in optical engineering, physics, and electronics, typically with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. Expertise in optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), simulation tools, and familiarity with industry standards are essential, along with certifications like Certified Optical Engineer (COE) being advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly set top performers apart. These skills ensure the effective design, analysis, and implementation of advanced optical systems critical for innovation and product quality.

How does a senior electro optical engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during product development?

As a Senior Electro Optical Engineer, collaboration with cross-functional teams is a key part of the role. You will work closely with mechanical, software, and systems engineers to integrate optical components into larger systems, ensuring that all design aspects meet performance and manufacturing requirements. Regular meetings, design reviews, and joint troubleshooting sessions are common, and your expertise is often called upon to resolve complex technical challenges. This collaborative environment fosters learning and innovation while requiring strong communication skills and the ability to bridge gaps between different engineering disciplines.

What is the difference between Senior Electro Optical Engineer vs Electro Optical Engineer?

AspectSenior Electro Optical EngineerElectro Optical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; experience preferredBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aerospace, defense, telecommunicationsResearch labs, manufacturing, telecommunications, defense
Employer & Industry UsageTypically in advanced R&D roles, leading projectsDesign, develop, and test electro-optical systems

The main difference between a Senior Electro Optical Engineer and an Electro Optical Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. Senior roles often involve project leadership and advanced problem-solving, while Electro Optical Engineers focus on design and development tasks. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in comparable environments, but senior positions demand more experience and leadership skills.

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Senior Electro Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Senior Electro Optical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Electro Optical Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct in-depth analysis of electro-optical sensors and systems

  • Design, simulate, analyze, prototype, and test optical systems and sensors at various levels

  • Develop and maintain optical test equipment for electro-optical seeker and sensor systems


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 75 rated research


Job description

Description
Do you like to work with sophisticated electro-optical systems? Do you have a desire to work in a cutting-edge R&D environment solving the nation's toughest challenges while working for a top-rated employer?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
JHU/APL is seeking an Electro-Optical Engineer to be a part of a team of scientists and engineers that conceives, designs, builds, and tests complex electro-optical systems.
As an Electro-Optical Engineer, you will:
  • Conduct in-depth analysis of electro-optical sensors and systems
  • Design, simulate, analyze, prototype, and test optical systems and sensors at the component, subsystem, and system levels
  • Develop new test capabilities that will assess the performance of both new and fielded optical systems
  • Develop and refine tools, techniques, models, simulations, algorithms, and software for the testing and evaluation of electro-optic systems
  • Develop and maintain optical test equipment for electro-optical seeker and sensor systems
  • Work with project and program management and with peers across the organization to ensure that test results provide critical contributions to the most critical challenges the nation faces in air and missile defense.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • A Bachelor's degree in engineering, optics, physics, mathematics, or a related field.
  • Experience in analysis, design, development, or testing of electro-optical instruments or sensors
  • Proficiency in data analysis and the interpretation of physical measurements as real-world phenomena
  • Demonstrated strengths in understanding and solving sophisticated technical problems.
  • Ability to speak and write for audiences of varying levels of technical knowledge
  • Availability to travel up to 10% of the time as needed.
  • An active Secret security clearance and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI. If selected, you will be subject to a government security 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...
  • An MS or PhD degree or equivalent in a relevant technical field.
  • Experience in system-level requirement analysis, engineering, and evaluation of electro-optical sensors, systems, and subsystems
  • Experience with visible and infrared detectors (CCD, CMOS, microbolometer, InSb, HgCdTe, Type II SLS, etc.)
  • Ability to perform radiometric/photometric modeling of electro-optical sensor systems in both the visible and the infrared spectrum
  • Interdisciplinary familiarity of systems including optical, electro-optical, electrical, software, and mechanical engineering
  • Experience in system engineering and project management.
  • Experience with integrated software/hardware systems.
  • Current TS/SCI clearance.

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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