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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Senior Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$110.90K - $143.60K/yr

The ability to use simulation tools to develop optical models that accurately describe real-world systems. * Strong hands-on experimental skills. * Innovative thinking with solid analytical and ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

The ability to use simulation tools to develop optical models that accurately describe real-world systems. * Strong hands-on experimental skills. * Innovative thinking with solid analytical and ...

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Optical Simulation Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Simulation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Simulation Engineer, you need expertise in optics, physics, and mathematics, typically with a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Proficiency in simulation software such as Zemax, LightTools, or COMSOL Multiphysics, along with familiarity with programming languages like Python or MATLAB, is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial for collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and conveying complex technical concepts. These abilities ensure accurate optical system modeling, efficient project workflows, and successful development of innovative optical products.

What are the main challenges an Optical Simulation Engineer faces when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Optical Simulation Engineers often collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to ensure that optical designs integrate seamlessly into larger systems. A common challenge is translating complex optical requirements into terms that colleagues from other disciplines can understand, while also adapting simulations to reflect real-world constraints such as tolerances and material properties. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as project requirements can evolve rapidly and may require iterative simulations or adjustments. Building strong cross-functional relationships can help overcome these challenges and lead to more robust, innovative solutions.

What is an Optical Simulation Engineer?

An Optical Simulation Engineer is a professional who uses specialized software and modeling techniques to design, analyze, and optimize optical systems such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They simulate the behavior of light within these systems to predict performance and identify potential issues before physical prototypes are built. These engineers work closely with product development teams in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, automotive, and consumer electronics. Their expertise helps to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure the quality of optical products.

What is the difference between Optical Simulation Engineer vs Optical Design Engineer?

AspectOptical Simulation EngineerOptical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering; proficiency in simulation softwareBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering; strong design and analytical skills
Work EnvironmentPrimarily uses simulation tools to model optical systems; collaborates with design teamsDesigns and develops optical components and systems; often involved in prototyping
Employer & Industry UsageOptics companies, research labs, aerospace, and defenseOptics and photonics companies, consumer electronics, and medical device industries

Both roles require a background in optics and engineering, but Optical Simulation Engineers focus on modeling and analysis using simulation software, while Optical Design Engineers are more involved in creating and optimizing physical optical systems. They often work together but have distinct responsibilities within the optical development process.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Arizona? For Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Optical Simulation Engineer job openings:
Electro-Optical Seeker Modeling and Simulations Engineer

Electro-Optical Seeker Modeling and Simulations Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Chandler, AZ • On-site

$87.20K - $130.80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 336 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 512 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Space Systems is looking for a Seeker Modeling and Simulations Engineer to support the Launch Vehicles business unit in Chandler, Arizona.
The Seeker Modeling and Simulations Engineer, as part of the Seeker IPT, will utilize their expertise to design, develop, verify, and implement Image Processing algorithms, simulation tools, and physics based models in support of high fidelity simulation. The team is responsible for the development of the design, integration, and testing of development/flight hardware, evaluating seeker performance in relation to algorithms, building/maintaining the seeker test suite, and leveraging physics-based models for algorithm and simulation development (including high-fidelity simulation 6DOF). The selected candidate should thrive in a fast-paced work environment with significantly diverse assignments and collaborative/team settings across all levels.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop high-fidelity simulations and models for seeker design, performance assessment, and flight test support
  • Design and implement modeling solutions, conduct trade studies and evaluation of system and subsystem performance
  • Apply EO phenomenology and advanced physics concepts in a software implementations to mirror real hardware systems
  • Research and develop novel EO modeling techniques
  • Collaborate with Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) personnel and other departments to perform simulation activities
  • Provide technical expertise for GPI simulation and modeling products both internally and externally
  • Work in a team environment specific to modelling & simulation and supporting additional, varied program efforts

Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline from an accredited university and 2 years of related experience or a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 0 years of experience.
  • Must have an active U.S. Government DoD Secret security clearance at time of application, current and within scope
  • Experience with image and signal processing techniques
  • Expertise physical optical systems simulations and scene generation
  • Experience applying object-oriented software design, programming in C or C++, and MATLAB or Python.
  • Knowledge of Electro-Optics (EO), EO/IR imaging systems, and radiometric transfer principles
  • Experience with high-performance computing (HPC) environments

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Advanced Degree in Optical Engineering or Electrical Engineering (image processing focus), Physics, or Software preferred
  • Experience with missile systems or hypersonic missile systems and associated standards
  • Previous experience with DOD missile defense programs
  • Experience in video/image processing algorithms such as background/noise estimation, target detection, false alarm rejection, radiometric estimation, search/object localization, and sensor control
  • Familiarity with hardware/software integration and modeling physics-based or real-time systems
  • Proficiency in software change management tools, processes, and real-time programming.
  • Highly proficient in C/C++ development and Linux environment
  • High proficiency in MATLAB and Python toolchains
  • Experience with discrimination algorithms
  • Experience using MSLRAD scene generator
  • Experience restructuring algorithms to improve run time on HPCs
  • Familiarity with Software and Firmware development processes

Primary Level Salary Range: $87,200.00 - $130,800.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939