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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Brighton, CO

SRI International

Photonics Research Engineer III

Boulder, CO · On-site

$101K - $151K/yr

... simulation and modeling, and other laboratory R&D tasks. * Management-level tasks include helping ... PhD in electrical engineering, optics, physics or related technical discipline * PhD thesis or work ...

SRI International

Photonics Research Engineer III

Boulder, CO · On-site

$101K - $151K/yr

... simulation and modeling, and other laboratory R&D tasks. * Management-level tasks include helping ... PhD in electrical engineering, optics, physics or related technical discipline * PhD thesis or work ...

Socket.dev

Senior Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$140 - $160/hr

... optical engineering, software and hardware disciplines. The ideal candidate can translate ... Coordinate with modeling and simulation teams to evaluate performance trade-offs and scalability of ...

Judge Group, Inc.

FPGA Firmware Engineer

Westminster, CO · On-site

$140K - $155K/yr

... optical, infrared, and high-performance sensing technologies. This role is responsible for FPGA ... Execute verification and validation activities including simulation, testbench development, timing ...

Atom Computing

Senior Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO

$140K - $160K/yr

... optical engineering, software and hardware disciplines. The ideal candidate can translate ... Coordinate with modeling and simulation teams to evaluate performance trade-offs and scalability of ...

Atom Computing

Senior Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

... optical engineering, software and hardware disciplines. The ideal candidate can translate ... Coordinate with modeling and simulation teams to evaluate performance trade-offs and scalability of ...

Atom Computing

Senior Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

... optical engineering, software and hardware disciplines. The ideal candidate can translate ... Coordinate with modeling and simulation teams to evaluate performance trade-offs and scalability of ...

True Anomaly

GNC Engineer II

Denver, CO · On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

... RF/optical navigation sensors. * Develop GNC algorithms and implement them in flight software ... Design, implement, and improve high-fidelity 6-DOF simulation environments for SIL, HIL, and ...

Atom Computing

Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO

$120K - $145K/yr

Coordinate with modeling and simulation teams to evaluate performance trade-offs and scalability of ... Familiarity with quantum computing, atomic, and optical (AMO) physics, control system integration ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsOptical Simulation Engineer JobsOptical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Brighton, CO

Optical Simulation Engineer information

See Brighton, CO salary details

$88.9K

$153.9K

$180.5K

How much do optical simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical simulation engineer in Brighton, CO is $153,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $138,200.00 and $178,900.00 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 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 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 cities near Brighton, CO are hiring for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Brighton, CO with the most Optical Simulation Engineer job openings:

Optical Simulation Engineer jobs near you

Photonics Research Engineer III

SRI International

Boulder, CO • On-site

$101K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Overview
SRI's Applied Physics Laboratory, in Boulder, CO, has an opportunity for a Photonics Research Engineer with experience in photonic integrated circuits to execute on a variety of projects ranging from optical phased arrays to microwave photonic systems. SRI specializes in developing and transitioning technology from basic research and development (R&D) to fieldable prototypes for both US government and commercial customers. Our Advanced Technology and Systems Division (ATSD) performs research spanning advanced signal processing, robotics, quantum physics, and ocean modeling. This position is on-site in Boulder, CO.
Responsibilities
A successful candidate will contribute to ongoing and future programs with emphasis in optical communications, signal processing, and sensing, to apply their advanced knowledge and skills in photonic integrated circuits (PICs) to microwave photonics and/or optical phased arrays. They will work with small to medium sized research teams comprised of multidisciplinary, subject matter expert (SME) engineering professionals with expertise ranging from PICs, stabilized lasers, optical communications, and RF signal processing to quantum sensing, applied mathematics and computer science. Their contributions will range from technical to management level tasks.
  • Technical contributions will primarily include system development and testing, fundamental and engineering calculations, simulation and modeling, and other laboratory R&D tasks.
  • Management-level tasks include helping project managers manage technical aspects of programs, leading tasks, assessing program performance, and communicating with clients and SRI senior management.

Qualifications
  • PhD in electrical engineering, optics, physics or related technical discipline
    • PhD thesis or work experience ideally would substantially include photonic integrated circuits (PIC), development from modeling and simulation to layout and characterization and test
  • U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance due to government contract requirements
  • Experience simulating and testing PICs, analyzing data, and/or PIC component layout
  • Experience in applying PIC systems to application areas such as optical phased arrays, microwave photonics, optical communication, and/or quantum sensing
  • Proficient in scientific programming e.g., Python, MATLAB, and/or other similar scripting languages
  • Familiarity with process design kits (PDKs) from foundries such as AIM Photonics, Applied Nanotools, and Tower Semiconductor
  • Prior experience working on Government-funded R&D programs
  • Demonstrated experience working in a team environment and managing time while working on multiple projects

Desired:
  • Active DoD Secret clearance
  • Familiarity with automated testing and data collection
  • Familiarity with feedback control and stabilization of photonic systems comprised of components such as interferometers, filters, and lasers
  • Demonstrated ability to develop new business with potential customers and familiarity with proposal writing
  • The following experience:
    • Working with and submitting designs to multi-project wafer runs at PIC foundries
    • Simulating photonic devices in FDTD using Tidy3D, Lumerical, or similar tools
    • With scripted-based layout of photonic components and systems using GDSFactory, Nazca, IPKISS, or similar
    • Designing electro-optic PIC devices in silicon and/or thin-film lithium niobate
    • With precision measurement and/or metrology
    • Leading technical presentations and demonstrations
  • Experience with classified research

The salary range is: $101,592-$151,119. Salary ranges will vary and are based on several factors, including geographic location, market competitiveness and equity amongst internal employees in similar roles. Positions may also qualify for SRI's Pay for Outstanding Performance program or the annual Performance Based Compensation program. SRI also has a competitive benefits package, to view details please go to https://www.sri.com/resources/benefits/. SRI will accept applications until the position is filled.
SRI is an independent nonprofit research institute headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., with a rich history of supporting government and industry. We create and deliver world-changing solutions for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future. For more than 75 years, we have collaborated across technical and scientific disciplines to discover and develop groundbreaking products and technologies and bring innovations and ideas to the marketplace.

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