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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Perform Gaussian beam optics analysis and diffraction simulations to characterize beam propagation ... Develop and maintain engineering documentation including design drawings, analysis reports ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$102K - $133K/yr

What You'll Do * Design, simulate, and test analog and digital circuits using microcontrollers ... Develop interface electronics for motion control, sensors, optical systems, and communications

What You'll Do * Design, simulate, and test analog and digital circuits using microcontrollers ... Develop interface electronics for motion control, sensors, optical systems, and communications

Physics 2 Tutor

Murfreesboro, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... engineering applications, and MCAT physical science preparation. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem ... optics. Adapts instruction using visual simulations, worked examples, and laboratory-connected ...

Physics 2 Tutor

Chattanooga, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... engineering applications, and MCAT physical science preparation. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem ... optics. Adapts instruction using visual simulations, worked examples, and laboratory-connected ...

Physics 2 Tutor

Knoxville, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... engineering applications, and MCAT physical science preparation. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem ... optics. Adapts instruction using visual simulations, worked examples, and laboratory-connected ...

Physics 2 Tutor

Nashville, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... engineering applications, and MCAT physical science preparation. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem ... optics. Adapts instruction using visual simulations, worked examples, and laboratory-connected ...

Physics 2 Tutor

Kingsport, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... engineering applications, and MCAT physical science preparation. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem ... optics. Adapts instruction using visual simulations, worked examples, and laboratory-connected ...

Physics 2 Tutor

Memphis, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... engineering applications, and MCAT physical science preparation. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem ... optics. Adapts instruction using visual simulations, worked examples, and laboratory-connected ...

College Physics Tutor

Nashville, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

College Physics Tutor

Knoxville, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

College Physics Tutor

Murfreesboro, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

College Physics Tutor

Memphis, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

College Physics Tutor

Chattanooga, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

College Physics Tutor

Kingsport, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

High School Physics Tutor

Nashville, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ... Adapts instruction using demonstrations, PhET simulations, and scaffolded problem sets to support ...

... optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ... Adapts instruction using demonstrations, PhET simulations, and scaffolded problem sets to support ...

High School Physics Tutor

Memphis, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ... Adapts instruction using demonstrations, PhET simulations, and scaffolded problem sets to support ...

High School Physics Tutor

Knoxville, TN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ... Adapts instruction using demonstrations, PhET simulations, and scaffolded problem sets to support ...

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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 Tennessee? For Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Optical Simulation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Simulation Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution.

RF Engineer

Type One Energy

Knoxville, TN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Join us in our mission to commercialize fusion energy
About Type One Energy
Type One Energy Group is mission-driven to provide sustainable, affordable fusion power to the world. Established in 2019 and venture-backed in 2023, the company is led by a team of globally recognized fusion scientists with a strong track record of building state-of-the-art stellarator fusion machines, together with veteran business leaders experienced in scaling companies and commercializing energy technologies.
If you are searching for the best new ideas and share our vision, join us as a RF Engineer. This is what you need to know:
Location: Knoxville, TN (Other office locations may be available)
Salary: Highly Competitive Plus Benefits
Contract: Permanent, full time
Reporting to: Senior Director of Systems Engineering
Your role in the mission:
We are seeking a motivated RF Engineer to join our Electron Cyclotron Heating (ECH) team and take a central role in the design and development of a quasi-optical (QO) transmission line system. This is a hands-on engineering position at the intersection of high-power microwave engineering, optical beam propagation, and fusion system integration.
You will work alongside highly motivated physicists and engineers to design, analyze, and validate the QO transmission line that delivers high-power millimeter-wave beams from gyrotron sources to the plasma vessel. This role offers significant opportunity for growth and requires a willingness to develop expertise across a broad set of microwave and optical engineering disciplines.
  • Lead and contribute to the design of QO transmission line components, including waveguides, mirrors, polarizers, and beam shaping elements for high-power millimeter-wave delivery
  • Perform Gaussian beam optics analysis and diffraction simulations to characterize beam propagation, spillover losses, and mode purity through the QO transmission line
  • Use electromagnetic simulation tools (e.g., CST, HFSS, COMSOL, or equivalent) to model QO component performance and validate designs against system requirements
  • Specify and coordinate fabrication of precision microwave components, working closely with machinists, vendors, and metrology teams to ensure design tolerances are met
  • Conduct low-power microwave bench measurements to characterize component performance, including beam pattern mapping, insertion loss, and polarization purity
  • Support high-power conditioning and commissioning activities for the QO transmission line in coordination with the broader ECH team
  • Develop and maintain engineering documentation including design drawings, analysis reports, interface control documents, and test procedures
  • Stay current with advances in QO and millimeter-wave engineering and proactively apply new techniques to improve system performance
  • Interact with other engineering and physics disciplines including thermal, mechanical, and neutronics

What you'll need:
  • Doctoral degree/Masters in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, or a closely related field
  • Demonstrated experience in microwave or millimeter-wave engineering, including RF component design, analysis, or testing
  • Working knowledge of Gaussian beam optics and free-space wave propagation at millimeter-wave or sub-millimeter-wave frequencies
  • Proficiency with at least one electromagnetic/multi-physics simulation tool (e.g., CST Microwave Studio, HFSS, COMSOL, or similar)
  • Hands-on experience with microwave measurement techniques and laboratory instrumentation (VNAs, power meters, beam profilers)
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate system-level requirements into component-level specifications
  • Genuine curiosity and a demonstrated willingness to learn new technical domains; this role spans multiple disciplines and rewards intellectual breadth
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment

Preferred Qualifications
  • Familiarity with high-power gyrotron systems or ECH transmission line architectures used in fusion research
  • Experience with QO or antenna range measurements, including near-field to far-field transformations
  • Exposure to fusion devices (tokamaks or stellarators) and the role of ECH systems in plasma heating
  • Experience with engineering design tools such as CAD (SolidWorks, CATIA) for mechanical integration of microwave components

We offer:
In addition to a basic salary and yearly bonus, you will also get...
  • A hybrid work policy
  • Stock options
  • Relocation allowance
  • Insurance plans
  • Retirement options
  • And many more great voluntary benefits

Type One Energy applies proven advanced manufacturing methods, modern computational physics and high-field superconducting magnets to develop its optimized stellarator fusion energy system. Our FusionDirect development program pursues the lowest-risk, shortest-schedule path to a fusion power plant over the coming decade, using a partner-intensive and capital-efficient strategy.
Type One Energy is committed to community engagement in the development and deployment of its clean energy technology. For more information, visit www.typeoneenergy.com or follow us on LinkedIn.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Type One Energy is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity, searching for the best new ideas and remaining open to unique perspectives. Therefore, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment independent of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age, or any other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.