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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

ARA

Staff Engineer / Scientist 1

Littleton, CO · On-site

Experience and/or proficiency with optical simulation and modeling codes. * Demonstrated experience ... ARA is an employee-owned research and engineering company recognized for providing technically ...

True Anomaly

Electro-Optical Engineer II

Denver, CO · On-site

$95K - $155K/yr

... simulation frameworks QUALIFICATIONS * Bachelor's degree in Physics, Optics, Imaging Science ... Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or a comparable programming language for engineering analysis and ...

Acuity, Inc.

Illumination Engineer Lead

Wheat Ridge, CO · On-site

$108K - $143K/yr

Job Summary The Illumination Engineer is a core contributor to the Nexus team, Acuity Brands ... Develop optical designs using ray trace and simulation tools to evaluate and refine light ...

Acuity Brands

Illumination Engineer Lead

Wheat Ridge, CO

$108K - $143K/yr

Job Summary The Illumination Engineer is a core contributor to the Nexus team, Acuity Brands ... Develop optical designs using ray trace and simulation tools to evaluate and refine light ...

General Atomics

Engineer VII

Englewood, CO · On-site

$128K - $229K/yr

Perform advanced simulations and modeling of fluid behavior in spacecraft environments, including ... Optical systems, flight systems, or military systems experience is highly desirable. * Familiarity ...

General Atomics

Engineer VII

Englewood, CO · On-site

Perform advanced simulations and modeling of fluid behavior in spacecraft environments, including ... Optical systems, flight systems, or military systems experience is highly desirable. * Familiarity ...

Anduril Industries

Lead Hardware Engineer

Boulder, CO

$128K - $169K/yr

ABOUT THE JOB As the Lead Hardware Engineer for our ladar product line, you will be responsible for ... simulation, and optical test equipment. * Supply Chain and Operations: Familiarity with supply ...

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

Optical Simulation Engineer information

See Denver, CO salary details

$85.4K

$147.8K

$173.4K

How much do optical simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical simulation engineer in Denver, CO is $147,816.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,800.00 and $171,900.00 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 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 Denver, CO? For Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Denver, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Denver, CO look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Denver, CO are:
What cities near Denver, CO are hiring for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities near Denver, CO with the most Optical Simulation Engineer job openings:
Optical Simulation Engineer jobs near you

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Peraton

Aurora, CO

$104K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 223 rated it services

Job description

Responsibilities

Ready to make an impact! Join Peraton in advancing national security through innovative Satellite Communications (SATCOM) ground terminal solutions. As a trusted partner in defense and space technologies, Peraton delivers the systems and services that keep our nation connected.

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In this role, you will provide technical expertise in laser-based, free-space optical communications and related technologies, ensure compliance with DoD guidelines, and collaborate across teams to drive project success. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge in free space optical communications systems, with strong analytical and communication skills.

 The Optical Communications SE will be responsible for the following but not limited to:

  • Developing concepts of operations for optical SATCOM ground terminal systems.
  • Reviewing, developing, analyzing, and allocating requirements for free-space optical communication links and ground terminals.
  • Developing and exercising performance models, including link budget analysis, atmospheric turbulence modeling, pointing/acquisition/tracking simulations, and mitigation techniques (e.g., adaptive optics, wavefront correction).
  • Providing technical guidance on deploying optical SATCOM systems, including optical ground terminals, wavefront correction, acquisition, tracking, and pointing (ATP) mechanisms, and atmospheric mitigation strategies.
  • Supporting the integration of optical ground terminals into SATCOM architectures, collaborating with engineering teams on system design, testing, and validation. 
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or related field.
  • Must have the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.
  • Five or more years of professional experience in optical communications, photonics, or related fields, with focus on free-space optical systems and ground terminal applications.
  • Proficient in free-space optical system modeling and link analysis.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage complex technical tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • U.S. Citizenship Required.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree (e.g., Master's or Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or a closely related field is highly desirable.
  • Knowledge of optical communication challenges and mitigations, including atmospheric mitigation, pointing, acquisition and tracking, and link analysis.
  • Exposure to SATCOM or defense-related optical communication projects, particularly involving ground terminals.
  • Experience with DoD lifecycle management processes for SATCOM systems from engineering design, integration and test to deployment, operations and sustainment.
Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$104,000 - $166,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017

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