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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Apex, NC (NOW HIRING)

Amphenol TCS

Mechanical Engineer, FEA

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... 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 ...

Amphenol TCS

Development Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... 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 ...

NextDeavor Inc.

Hardware Design Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

... control electro-optical sensors, lasers, batteries and related components for next-generation ... Validate circuit performance with SPICE and other simulation tools prior to board spins * Lead ...

NextDeavor Inc.

Hardware Design Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

... control electro-optical sensors, lasers, batteries and related components for next-generation ... Validate circuit performance with SPICE and other simulation tools prior to board spins * Lead ...

Amphenol TCS

Mechanical Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... Optics, and Commercial electronics markets. Amphenol Corporation is one of the world's largest ... with simulation software for mechanical systems is a plus. * Deep understanding of materials ...

Varsity Tutors

Physics 2 Tutor

Chapel Hill, NC · 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 ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Chapel Hill, NC · 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 ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Physics Tutor

Chapel Hill, NC · 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 ...

All JobsOptical Simulation Engineer JobsOptical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Apex, NC

Optical Simulation Engineer information

See Apex, NC salary details

$63.2K

$109.4K

$128.4K

How much do optical simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical simulation engineer in Apex, NC is $109,426.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,300.00 and $127,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
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Optical Simulation Engineer jobs near you
Sr Mechanical Engineer - Illumination Optics

Sr Mechanical Engineer - Illumination Optics

Garmin International, Inc.

Cary, NC • On-site

$106K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Garmin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 156 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Overview
We are seeking a full-time experienced Sr Mechanical Engineer - Illumination Optics on our Explorations Team at our Headquarters location in the Kansas City area, or at our site in Cary, NC. While other engineering product development teams at Garmin primarily focus on designing products, our team focuses on the product enabling technologies that will be essential to those products and will expedite their development. In this role, you will explore various lighting applications involving signal, conspicuity, and forward illumination systems across many of Garmin's business segments.
Essential Functions
  • Design and develop custom non-imaging optical systems for various consumer electronics applications
  • Conduct optical simulation and analysis for concept development and design change verification
  • Transform optical surfaces into mechanical component models that are manufacturable
  • Collaborate with ID, ME, EE, Optical and Illumination engineers throughout development
  • Define boundary constraints for the optics due to ID goals, electromechanical integration, thermal limitations, power budgets, and design for manufacturing
  • Develop optical and photometric requirements to meet product goals
  • Own development of optical design standards and specifications to support evaluation of optical system performance
  • Quickly ideate to conceptualize creative illumination solutions to a maturity necessary to conduct tradeoff analyses and inform risk vs reward
  • Perform benchmark testing and competitive analysis
  • Explore innovative mechanical concepts and complete complex mechanical designs
  • Technology investigations, design, testing/validation, prototyping and supporting technology transfer to product development teams
  • Ability to complete the most difficult tasks as a Master CAD-user including the completion of complex mechanical designs (Solidworks/Onshape preferred )
  • Good knowledge of GD&T and tolerance analysis
  • Good knowledge of injection molding, die casting, sheet metal stamping, machining, etc
  • Negotiate processes, materials, and design feasibility with factory and vendors
  • Manage basic tradeoffs, determine risk mitigation plans, determine project goal/objective feasibility, provide technical input to product development plans/concept documents, and drive process vendors to evaluate complex mechanical designs and understand risk
  • Lead explorations of new technologies and make estimates on moderately complex mechanical designs including: tooling, part cost, and design time
  • Mentor level 1 and 2 engineers
  • Overseas travel as required

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering AND a minimum of 5 years relevant experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Master CAD-user (Solidworks/Onshape preferred) - able to complete the most difficult tasks
  • Demonstrated knowledge and capability to use CAD software for completing complex mechanical designs
  • Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills

Desired Qualifications
  • Advanced degree in Engineering, Optics, or Physics
  • 5+ years in illumination systems development of automotive exterior or interior lighting or related application
  • Proficient in the use of optical software (LucidShape preferred, LightTools, Zemax, Speos)
  • Experience designing custom reflector and solid optics using optics software and manual raytracing methods in Mechanical CAD
  • Understanding of test methodologies for optical systems
  • Understanding of thermal management of LEDs and associated drivers
  • Experience with dynamic, digital, and software-controlled lighting systems
  • Understanding of CAE/Simulation methods
  • Experience conducting CFD or FEA simulation for early thermal verification of lighting systems
  • Electronic packaging design experience

Garmin International is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran's status, age or disability.
This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits

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