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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in North Carolina

Optical Engineer

Fletcher, NC

$122K - $158K/yr

Guide software\/tool selection for optical simulation and modeling - we're open to what works best ... Our engineering team is tight, scrappy, and fun. You'll love working here. We're based in Western ...

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for engineering analysis or simulation

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for engineering analysis or simulation

And so much more.​   ​Come break through with us.  Our Optical Communications segment has ... Experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for engineering analysis or simulation

... Optics, and Commercial electronics markets. Amphenol Corporation is one of the world's largest ... The Mechanical Engineer, FEA will be responsible for mechanical simulations, structural analysis ...

$92K - $127K/yr

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Perform system level thermo-mechanical simulations to provide design recommendations * Deliver ...

And so much more.​   ​Come break through with us.  Our Optical Communications segment has ... Experience using MATLAB or Python for engineering analysis, data analysis, or simulation ...

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Experience using MATLAB or Python for engineering analysis, data analysis, or simulation ...

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Experience using MATLAB or Python for engineering analysis, data analysis, or simulation ...

... Optics, and Commercial electronics markets. Amphenol Corporation is one of the world's largest ... ANSYS or other FEA simulation experience Amphenol Corporation is proud of our reputation as an ...

In this role, you'll apply engineering principles and scientific methods to drive root-cause ... Familiarity with fiber optics and materials science * Experience with modeling or simulation ...

In this role, you'll apply engineering principles and scientific methods to drive root-cause ... Familiarity with fiber optics and materials science * Experience with modeling or simulation ...

In this role, you'll apply engineering principles and scientific methods to drive root-cause ... Familiarity with fiber optics and materials science * Experience with modeling or simulation ...

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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 North Carolina? For Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities in North Carolina with the most Optical Simulation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Simulation Engineer job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

$122K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

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Optical Design Engineer<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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We are seeking an Optical Design Engineer to join a well\-respected team of engineers in building innovative LED lighting for emergency vehicles - the lights that help first responders save lives. We're looking for a hands\-on, scrappy, creative Optical Engineer to become our in\-house expert on all things optics. If you know how to shape, mix, bend, and throw light like a wizard, we want to talk.
This is a ground\-floor opportunity: you'll be our first in\-house optical expert. You'll own the optical performance of every lighting product we make - from warning lights to scene lights to the next generation of integrated multi\-color systems - and will play a key role in helping us outshine the competition.<\/span><\/span><\/p>

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What you'll do:<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Review and analyze existing products to identify optical improvement opportunities.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Design next\-generation LED optics for warning lights, scene lights, and headlights.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Drive innovation in multi\-color, under\-one\-optic designs (think stage lighting meets public safety).<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Select lens materials (primarily acrylic or polycarbonate; silicone a plus) and specify optical geometry (reflectors, collimators, beam\-shaping elements, etc.).<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Collaborate with our mechanical and embedded product engineers to deliver fully integrated lighting systems.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Work with suppliers and manufacturers to source, tool, and validate optical components.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Use photometric equipment (like goniophotometers and integrating spheres) to validate optical performance.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Guide software\/tool selection for optical simulation and modeling - we're open to what works best.<\/span><\/span>
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 <\/span><\/span>What we're looking for:<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Proven experience designing optics for LED lighting systems.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Deep understanding of how to shape and control light - beam angles, optical efficiency, color mixing, etc.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Strong background in optical design tools (Zemax, LightTools, TracePro, or similar) and CAD software (SolidWorks experience is a plus).<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience working with plastic optics (injection molded preferred), and knowledge of manufacturing constraints.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Comfortable owning a function solo - you're a team of one for now, so you'll need to set the vision and execute.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Comfortable testing, prototyping, failing fast, and iterating - we love trying new things.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Degree? Cool if you have one. But if your portfolio, prototypes, or patent history speak louder - we'll listen.<\/span><\/span>
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\n Who you are:<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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 <\/span><\/span><\/b>       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You've maybe worked at a small lighting company or engineering startup - and you liked the pace.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You're confident, hands\-on, and love solving problems that don't have an obvious answer,<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You're a builder. An inventor. Someone who sees light differently.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You've always wanted the freedom to say, "Let's try this crazy idea..." and then actually try it.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You're not afraid of regulations - even if you haven't worked with SAE, FMVSS, or DOT lighting standards before, you're the kind of person who can dive into the details and figure it out fast.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You thrive in a tight\-knit, high\-performance team and aren't afraid to roll up your sleeves.<\/span><\/span>
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Why join us:<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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 <\/span><\/span><\/b>       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>We're an established company with a tech startup feel. Fast\-moving, fun\-loving, and mission\-driven.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Our lights protect firefighters, paramedics, and police officers across the world. Your work literally saves lives.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You'll get to help shape the optical performance of an entire product line - from scratch.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Our engineering team is tight, scrappy, and fun. You'll love working here.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>We're based in Western North Carolina, just outside Asheville. Think bluegrass, breweries, and world\-class mountain biking five minutes from the shop.<\/span><\/span>
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