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Senior Electro Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vets Hired

Engineer (Electro-Optical)

Lexington Park, MD · On-site

$145K - $188K/yr

Job Summary An organization is seeking an Electro-Optical Engineer (Journeyman) to support advanced aircraft research, development, testing, and evaluation initiatives. This role focuses on designing ...

SAIC

Electro Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/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 ...

True Anomaly

Electro-Optical Engineer II

Denver, CO

$95K - $155K/yr

YOUR MISSION True Anomaly is seeking a motivated and technically curious Electro-Optical Engineer II to contribute to the design, analysis, and characterization of advanced imaging and sensing ...

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Senior Electro Optical Engineer information

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$67.5K

$124.7K

$169K

How much do senior electro optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior electro optical engineer in the United States is $124,724.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $140,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Electro Optical Engineer, and why are they important?

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.

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.

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.

More about Senior Electro Optical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Electro Optical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Electro Optical Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Electro Optical Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Electro Optical Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Electro Optical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Electro Optical Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Senior Electro Optical Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Electro Optical Engineer jobs are:
Senior Electro Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Electro Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,724 per year, or $60 per hour.

Engineer (Electro-Optical)

Vets Hired

Lexington Park, MD • On-site

$145K - $188K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

An organization is seeking an Electro-Optical Engineer (Journeyman) to support advanced aircraft research, development, testing, and evaluation initiatives. This role focuses on designing, testing, and maintaining electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems, supporting complex defense-related test environments and mission-critical technologies.

What You Can Expect to Do:
  • Design, assemble, and maintain EO/IR test setups, including optical labs and laser alignment systems
  • Develop and operate target boards for EO/IR sensor evaluation using thermal sources and detectors
  • Build and manage simulated EO/IR environments and field-test infrastructures
  • Support test planning, execution, documentation, and post-test analysis
  • Monitor and integrate systems with aircraft and weapons platforms during testing
  • Diagnose and resolve issues in electronic circuitry within EO/IR systems
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams on prototyping and system integration
  • Participate in travel for test activities across various defense branches
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field
  • 3+ years of relevant experience
  • Experience with EO/IR sensors and associated test equipment
  • Experience with EO/IR testing techniques and evaluation criteria
  • Familiarity with systems such as DAIRCM and LAIRCM
  • Ability to obtain and maintain SAP/SCI access
  • Eligibility to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret security clearance
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Advanced degree in Optics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related STEM field
  • Experience with imaging systems (IR, visible, multi-spectral)
  • Experience integrating EO hardware and embedded electronics
  • Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or C++ for data analysis and automation