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Senior Optical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

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 ...

SAIC

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 ...

SAIC

Electro Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$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 ...

Fibertek, Inc

Senior Firmware Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$140K - $210K/yr

Job Title Senior Firmware Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary) Fibertek ... Collaborate closely with hardware, systems, software, and optical engineers in cross-functional ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsSenior Optical Engineer JobsSenior Optical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Senior Optical Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$61.9K

$131.7K

$190.9K

How much do senior optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior optical engineer in Reston, VA is $131,664.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,700.00 and $149,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectSenior Optical EngineerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; 5+ years experienceBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; 1-3 years experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, R&D departmentsDesign, testing, and development in labs or production settings
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, aerospace, defense, medical devicesOptical product companies, research institutions, manufacturing

Senior Optical Engineers typically have more experience and responsibilities, including leading projects and mentoring. Optical Engineers focus on designing and testing optical systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in experience level and scope of work.

Are senior optical engineers in high demand?

Senior optical engineers are in high demand due to the growth of industries such as telecommunications, aerospace, and medical devices that rely on advanced optical systems. Their expertise in designing, testing, and optimizing optical components and systems is critical, and strong skills in optics, photonics, and related software increase employability across various high-tech sectors.

What are the typical collaboration opportunities for a senior optical engineer within multidisciplinary teams?

As a Senior Optical Engineer, you will frequently collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to develop and integrate optical systems into larger products. This role often involves working closely with project managers to align technical requirements and timelines, as well as coordinating with manufacturing teams to ensure prototypes are feasible and scalable. Effective cross-functional communication and a proactive approach to problem-solving are key, as you may also contribute to design reviews and mentor junior engineers. These collaborations not only support project success but also provide valuable exposure to diverse technical perspectives, fostering ongoing professional growth.

What does a senior optical engineer do?

A Senior Optical Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They often work on projects involving fiber optics, sensors, and advanced photonics technologies. Senior Optical Engineers lead technical teams, troubleshoot complex optical issues, and collaborate with other engineers to integrate optical solutions into larger systems. Their expertise is essential in industries like telecommunications, medical devices, aerospace, and consumer electronics.

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

To thrive as a Senior Optical Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of optics, physics, and optical system design, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field and several years of industry experience. Expertise with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and familiarity with relevant standards and certifications are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication set top candidates apart, especially when leading teams or interfacing with clients. These skills ensure the development of innovative, precise optical solutions that meet technical and business objectives.
What are popular job titles related to Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Senior Optical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Senior Optical Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Senior Optical Engineer job openings:
Senior Optical Engineer jobs near you

Senior Optical Communications Engineer

Fibertek, Inc

Herndon, VA • On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Title
Senior Optical Communications Engineer
Location
Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary)
Job Description
Fibertek, Inc. is a leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the aerospace community, with key contributions to lasers for atmospheric sensing, laser communications, and lidar sensors for NASA, DoD, and commercial customers. We are looking for a highly motivated individual to join our Research and Development Division in Herndon, VA.
As an optical communications engineer, you will be responsible for designing and building optical space terminals. Work includes optical space lasercom systems design, leading hand-on building of space flight optical flight terminals, and leading the performance and environmental verification testing for space. Design and work with some of the smartest minds in engineering actively involved in current high-profile NASA and DOD missions. You will use your direct hands-on experience to support the design, fabrication, and qualification of laser communication terminals, optical modems, and optical pointing and tracking systems. Activities include coordinating a multidisciplinary team of engineers to the successful completion of next generation laser communication terminals and optical modems while supporting multiple concurrent projects with a mix of short-duration flight programs and long-duration technology maturation programs.
Job Requirements
  • MS or PhD. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or other related engineering specialties with a minimum of 7 years direct hands-on designing, building, and characterizing optical systems.
  • Knowledge of telecommunications standards and industry best practices associated
  • Ability to design and execute experiments validating communications system performance and correlate the results with the expected performance.
  • Ability to lead space flight hardware builds.
  • Experience with modeling and simulation of optical systems using industry standard tools such as MATLAB, MATHCAD, ZEMAX or equivalent software tools
  • Developing and setting requirements and design tolerances
  • Experience with high-speed electrical circuits and radio frequency systems.
  • Strong communication and documentation skills for efficient multidisciplinary coordination
  • Ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges demonstrating ingenuity and creativity

Salary Range: The annual base salary range for this position is $150,000-$210,000. This range reflects the compensation Fibertek reasonably expects to offer for this role. Placement within the range will depend on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education and training, key skills, and relevant market and business considerations.
Benefits offered: The company provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; disability, life insurance, and AD&D; a 401(k) plan with a company match and immediate vesting; Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts; an Employee Assistance Program; education assistance; paid time off and holidays; flexible work schedules; and a 9/8/80 alternate workweek option.
FIBERTEK, Inc. is a recognized leader in advanced lasers, lidars and laser communication systems providing our DoD, NASA and aerospace customers discriminating capabilities. We pride ourselves in our innovation and customer success focused culture enabled by a creative and relaxed work environment. Fibertek fosters a progressive learning environment that values inspiration, promotes professional challenge and encourages personal growth. We offer a competitive and incentivized compensation package with excellent benefits.
Fibertek, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual merit, skills, and experience. Fibertek does not engage in nor permits any discrimination in the workplace.

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