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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Neuralink

Robot Optics Intern

South San Francisco, CA

$35/hr

Mechanical engineering and CAD skills * Experience with optical simulation and design software (e.g., Zemax, CodeV, OSLO, LightTools) Additional Requirements and Competencies: * Ability to travel to ...

Apple

Biomedical Sensor Architect

Cupertino, CA · On-site

... engineers developing technologies for the optical health sensors. You will be responsible for the optical design of the sensor via simulations and prototype-based assessments, user studies and ...

Apple

Biomedical Sensor Architect

Cupertino, CA · On-site

... engineers developing technologies for the optical health sensors. You will be responsible for the optical design of the sensor via simulations and prototype-based assessments, user studies and ...

Apple

Display Module Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

JMP, MATLAB) and/or optical simulation tools (e.g. LightTools) Preferred Qualifications MS or Ph.D ... engineering and mass production procedures Experience with failure analysis connecting optical ...

Neuralink

Robot Optics Intern

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$35/hr

Mechanical engineering and CAD skills * Experience with optical simulation and design software (e.g., Zemax, CodeV, OSLO, LightTools) Additional Requirements and Competencies: * Ability to travel to ...

PsiQuantum

Quantum Architect - Simulation

Palo Alto, CA · On-site +1

Candidates should have knowledge of linear optics, and experience in some of the following areas ... Degree in Physics, Math, Computer Science, or Electrical Engineering is required. A postgraduate ...

PsiQuantum

Quantum Architect - Simulation

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Candidates should have knowledge of linear optics, and experience in some of the following areas ... Degree in Physics, Math, Computer Science, or Electrical Engineering is required. A postgraduate ...

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Optical Simulation Engineer information

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in California? For Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Optical Simulation Engineer job openings:
Optical Simulation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Simulation Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 79% In-person, and 21% Remote job distribution.
Optical Design Engineer - Biophotonics

Optical Design Engineer - Biophotonics

Apple

Cupertino, CA

$150K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 674 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, smart people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our commitment to leave the world better than we found it. Join us to help deliver the next groundbreaking Apple product. Do you love working on challenges that no one has solved yet? As a member of our dynamic group, you will have the unrivaled and rewarding opportunity to craft upcoming products that will delight and inspire millions of Apple’s customers every single day.
Description
In this Optical Design Engineer role, you will leverage your experience in designing and tolerancing optical systems to lead efforts to design and manufacture ultra-compact, high-precision micro-optical systems. You will start out with novel optics design concepts and turn them into optical systems optimized for mass production.","responsibilities":"Design, simulate, and analyze complex, ultra-compact free-space optical systems
Utilize your skills in optical design and simulation to propose optics designs, tolerance budgets, as well as testing and qualification approaches and methods
Contribute to the design, implementation, and test of novel technology prove-of-concept devices and prototypes
Work in a team and contribute to the development of next generation optics and photonics devices
Preferred Qualifications
3+ years of relevant industry experience
MS or PhD degree in Optics, Physics, EE or a related field
Understanding of optical physics fundamentals
Familiarity with the design, simulation, optimization, sensitivity and tolerance analysis of complex free space optical systems, with a preference for high-precision micro-optical system design experience
Experience designing incoherent and coherent optical systems
Experience with the design of optics systems for sensing or metrology applications.
Experience in one or more of the following areas: optics design for manufacturability, stray light analysis, physical optics, or coherent optical effects
The ability to work well in an interdisciplinary team environment
Minimum Qualifications
BS degree in Optics, Physics, EE or a related field
Experience with at least one commercial optics simulation tools, such as Zemax, Code V, FRED, LightTools, or equivalent
Programming experience using MATLAB, Python, C, or similar tools
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $150,400 and $225,300, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

What Apple employees say

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Benefits

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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