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Virtual Optical Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

In this role, you will have a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge Optical and IP networking ... Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual ...

Network Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$62K - $141K/yr

Network Engineer The Opportunity: A well-designed network is critical to move data and enable the ... optical infrastructure networking, virtual routing and forwarding, Juniper SSR, AWS Gov Cloud you ...

Knowledge and experience with Optical, Layer 2, and Layer 3 technologies * Knowledge and experience ... Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual ...

Network Engineer, Senior

Mclean, VA · Hybrid

$77K - $176K/yr

... and virtual routing and forwarding to support the nation's defense and respond to evolving ... optical infrastructure networking, you'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients on critical ...

Showing results 21-40

Virtual Optical Engineer information

What is a virtual optical engineer?

A Virtual Optical Engineer is a professional who designs, simulates, and analyzes optical systems—such as lenses, lasers, or fiber optics—using computer-aided design (CAD) and simulation software, often working remotely. They collaborate with teams to develop and optimize optical components for industries like telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics. Their work may involve using specialized tools to model light propagation, assess system performance, and troubleshoot design issues before physical prototypes are built.

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

To thrive as a Virtual Optical Engineer, you need a strong background in optics, photonics, and physics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Proficiency in simulation tools such as Zemax, LightTools, or CODE V, and familiarity with CAD software are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are vital soft skills for collaborating on complex projects. These abilities enable the design and optimization of advanced optical systems in virtual environments, ensuring innovation and precision in product development.

What are some common challenges faced by virtual optical engineers when collaborating with remote teams?

Virtual Optical Engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams located in different regions, which can introduce challenges such as coordinating across time zones and ensuring clear communication about technical specifications. Working remotely requires strong documentation skills and the ability to use simulation and collaboration tools effectively to share design files, test results, and feedback in real time. Proactive communication and regular virtual meetings help to bridge gaps, but it's important to be adaptable to diverse working styles and maintain detailed records to ensure everyone stays aligned on project goals.

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

AspectVirtual Optical EngineerOptical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optics, physics, or engineering; certifications like Optics CertificationBachelor's or higher in optics, physics, or engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentRemote or virtual settings, collaborating with teams onlineOn-site labs, manufacturing facilities, or office environments
Industry UsageTechnology companies, research firms, remote consultingManufacturing, R&D labs, aerospace, telecommunications
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for remote optical engineering roles or virtual positionsSeeking traditional, on-site optical engineering jobs

While both Virtual Optical Engineers and Optical Engineers require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, Virtual Optical Engineers primarily work remotely, collaborating online, whereas Optical Engineers often work on-site in labs or manufacturing settings. The choice depends on your preferred work environment and industry focus.

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

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Virtual Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Virtual Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Virtual Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Virtual Optical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Virtual Optical Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 45% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 53% Remote job distribution.

Network Engineer, Deployment & Support

Meta

Reston, VA

$162K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Meta rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

139th of 247 rated software companies


Job description

Meta is looking for a Network Deployment & Support Engineering lead to join the team responsible for planning and executing network deployments and migrations to build the world's largest AI backbone network. In this role, you will have a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge Optical and IP networking technologies owning the deployment planning, implementation, and scaling of Meta's AI network infrastructure.
Network Engineer, Deployment & Support Responsibilities:
  • Lead the technical strategy, architecture, and execution for your team’s projects within Edge Network Services (ENS) on network deployments, ensuring alignment with organizational vision and goals
  • Provide hands-on technical contributions (design, deployment, migration, code reviews, troubleshooting, etc.) on large scale complex programs at the experienced engineer level, demonstrating domain expertise and technical impact
  • Drive strategic planning by building and executing six-month to multi-year roadmaps that support business growth and transformation. Balance high-level strategic vision with hands-on leadership to deliver results across a broad portfolio of initiatives
  • Ensure high standards for reliability, scalability, and performance in all deliverables, driving continuous improvement in engineering processes and technical quality
  • Collaborate cross-functionally across Network Engineering, Data Center, Edge, and Planning teams to ensure successful execution of shared goals on Network Capacity and Reliability
  • Deploy, migrate and support our global production network including edge, backbone, and data center infrastructure
  • Manage key vendor relationships including contract negotiations, pricing, and evaluation of current and potential partnerships
  • Manage partner engineering team relationships to enable the team(s) to effectively meet business needs
  • Mentor and onboard new team members, raising the team’s overall technical acumen and building internal community
  • Demonstrate leadership behaviors by helping others, showing respect, connecting people, and driving collaboration within the team and organization
  • 10% to 30% of travel

Minimum Qualifications:
  • 10+ years of Network Engineering, including hands-on responsibility for planning, building, deployment or migrating production network environments
  • Hands-on experience with enterprise and carrier class routing, switching, and optical transport platforms
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, relevant technical field, or equivalent practical experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Computer Engineering, relevant technical field, or equivalent practical experience
  • Experience interacting with vendors and external parties to drive projects to completion
  • Knowledge of data center design and operational best practices
  • Experience leading and executing network deployment and migration projects

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience adhering to and implementing responsible, ethical AI practices (e.g., risk assessment, bias mitigation, quality and accuracy reviews)
  • Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration) and staying current with emerging AI technologies
  • Knowledge of various scripting languages
  • Experience with process improvement and systems development, leveraging automation to streamline repetitive workflows
  • Demonstrated ability to integrate AI tools to optimize/redesign workflows and drive measurable impact (e.g., efficiency gains, quality improvements)
  • Network certifications such as CCE, CCIE, or JNCIE
  • Experience in data center, edge, or large-scale network environments

About Meta:
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.
Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at accommodations-ext@meta.com.
$162,000/year to $227,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits
Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

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