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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Ashburn, VA (NOW HIRING)

STR

Senior Scientist - Optical Signal Processing

Arlington, VA · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

... simulation, systems engineering, optics modelling • Experience building and delivering technical ... briefs to peers, senior level executives, and customers • Proficiency in one or more scientific ...

STR

Senior Scientist - Optical Signal Processing

Arlington, VA · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

... simulation, systems engineering, optics modelling • Experience building and delivering technical ... briefs to peers, senior level executives, and customers • Proficiency in one or more scientific ...

STR

Senior Scientist - Optical Signal Processing

Arlington, VA · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

... simulation, systems engineering, optics modelling • Experience building and delivering technical ... briefs to peers, senior level executives, and customers • Proficiency in one or more scientific ...

Fibertek

Senior Firmware Engineer

Herndon, VA

$140K - $210K/yr

... simulation, verification, and validation Collaborate closely with hardware, systems, software, and optical engineers in cross-functional teams to define interfaces, resolve design issues, and ensure ...

TalentRemedy

Staff Engineer

Herndon, VA

Our client is a leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the aerospace community ... CPLD design, simulation, and troubleshooting. Experience with embedded CPU/Micro-controller ...

NSS

Firmware Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$95 - $125/hr

leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the aerospace community, with key ... Experience developing test benches and running simulations to exercise the design and verify ...

New

Fibertek, Inc

Senior Firmware Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$140K - $210K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... simulation, verification, and validation * Collaborate closely with hardware, systems, software, and optical engineers in cross-functional teams to define interfaces, resolve design issues, and ...

Fibertek

Electrical Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Use your electrical engineering skills to design and build electro-optical systems to push ... with FPGA/CPLD design, simulation, and troubleshooting. Experience with embedded CPU ...

GRVTY

Software Engineer, Senior

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$126K - $166K/yr

Design, develop, and maintain Python-based software tools supporting optical signature modeling ... Experience with simulation, modeling, or mission analysis software in a defense or intelligence ...

FIBERTEK, INC.

Electrical Engineer

Herndon, VA

$100K - $160K/yr

In developing, verifying, and upgrading the electronics in Fibertek's electro-optical systems, you ... Experience with FPGA/CPLD design, simulation, and troubleshooting. * Experience with embedded CPU ...

FIBERTEK, INC.

Electrical Engineer

Herndon, VA

$100K - $160K/yr

In developing, verifying, and upgrading the electronics in Fibertek's electro-optical systems, you ... Experience with FPGA/CPLD design, simulation, and troubleshooting. * Experience with embedded CPU ...

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All JobsOptical Simulation Engineer JobsOptical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Ashburn, VA

Optical Simulation Engineer information

See Ashburn, VA salary details

$84.9K

$146.9K

$172.3K

How much do optical simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical simulation engineer in Ashburn, VA is $146,857.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,900.00 and $170,800.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Ashburn, VA?

For Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Ashburn, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Ashburn, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Ashburn, VA are:

Optical Simulation Engineer jobs near you

Senior Scientist - Optical Signal Processing

STR

Arlington, VA • On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Summary:
STR is a technology company specializing in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security. The Senior Scientist will develop state-of-the-art algorithms for airborne passive optical systems, focusing on detection and exploitation of targets in challenging environments.
Responsibilities:
• Work closely with program leadership to spearhead efforts that align with program and company priorities
• Conceive, prototype, test, and mature image processing algorithms for critical national security missions
• Document and present products to a community of scientists and subject matter experts
Qualifications:
Required:
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by U.S. Government
• BA, or MS in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or related technical discipline
• 3-5+ years of relevant work experience
• Expertise in two or more of the following areas: Signal processing, Fourier analysis, linear estimation, optimization, adaptive signal processing, AI/ML algorithm development, algorithm development, modeling & simulation, systems engineering, optics modelling
• Experience building and delivering technical briefs to peers, senior level executives, and customers
• Proficiency in one or more scientific or mathematical programming languages, such as MATLAB, Python, and C/C++
• Experienced researcher and team member who is excited to work with mission partners to leverage cutting-edge technology and research for immediate impact
• Excellent communicator and briefer, who is comfortable communicating with both technical and non-technical audiences
• Strong mathematical, written, and verbal communication skills
Preferred:
• Active Secret or TS/SCI Clearance
• Demonstrated leadership of complex research, development, and engineering efforts
• Experience with: Passive optical technologies in the defense sector, particularly airborne, downward-looking sensors
• Computer vision techniques such as feature identification/matching/tracking, optical flow, background subtraction, etc
• Interacting with decision-makers and customers to translate mission needs into an end-to-end solution
• Demonstrated ability to conceive, prototype, test, and mature novel algorithms for challenging sensors
Company:
STR is built on people & technology platforms tackling tough problems in cybersecurity, distributed sensing & artificial. Founded in 2010, the company is headquartered in Woburn, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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