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

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 ...

True Anomaly

GNC Engineer III

Denver, CO · On-site

$115K - $190K/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 ...

True Anomaly

GNC Engineer II

Denver, CO · On-site

$90K - $155K/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 ...

True Anomaly

Sr. GNC Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$140K - $250K/yr

Lead creation and improvement of high-fidelity 6-DOF simulations, sensor/actuator models ... Experience developing GNC systems for proximity operations, formation flying, optical navigation ...

True Anomaly

Principal GNC Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$180K - $305K/yr

Lead creation and improvement of high-fidelity 6-DOF simulations, sensor/actuator models ... Experience developing GNC systems for proximity operations, formation flying, optical navigation ...

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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

Mechanical Engineer - Vacuum Opto Mechanical Assembly - 822

Quantinuum

Broomfield, CO • On-site

$152K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a Lead Mechanical Design Engineer in our Broomfield, CO location to apply their skills to the development of our next generation large-scale quantum computers. In this role, you will own the mechanical design of a precision quantum hardware subsystem that physically houses the core of our ion trap quantum computer. This subsystem integrates an ultra-high vacuum chamber, ion trap hardware, precision beam delivery and detection optics, electrical control components, and associated structural, thermal, and alignment features. The work spans early-stage architecture, detailed opto mechanical design, tolerance and stability analysis, hands on prototyping, and iteration alongside physicists, electrical engineers, and systems engineers.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead the mechanical development and deployment of precision, multi-functional, quantum hardware assemblies from early concepts to detailed design to final procurement for next-generation trapped-ion quantum computers.
  • Design mechanical interfaces, mounting structures, and housing modules for complex optical, electrical, cryogenic, and vacuum subsystems.
  • Design precision environmental control systems.
  • Work with subsystem leads and systems engineers to maintain thorough interface control documents (ICDs).
  • Derive detailed mechanical subsystem and component requirements from higher-level requirements.
  • Maintain thorough, version-controlled CAD models and BOMs.
  • Partner with lab validation & integration teams to build and test prototype assemblies.
  • Complete FEM models to predict the structural, electrical, thermal, magnetic, and acoustic performance of complex subsystem assemblies.
  • Partners with quantum physicists and subsystem leads to optimize optical, electrical, cryogenic, and vacuum subsystem designs.
  • Partner with manufacturing team leads to optimize the lead time, SWAP-C, and uptime of subsystems.
  • Communicate findings and design proposals to larger technical, management, and executive teams.
  • Mentor junior engineers.

YOU MUST HAVE:
  • Bachelor's degree minimum
  • 5+ years of experience involving one or more of the following areas: cryogenic system design, vacuum systems, thermal modeling, qubits, atomic physics, spectroscopy, optics, electronics, or laboratory work in the physical sciences preferred.
  • Due to national security requirements imposed by the U.S. Government, candidates for this position must not be a People's Republic of China national or Russian national unless the candidate is also a U.S. citizen.
  • Due to Contractual requirements, must be a U.S. Person. defined as, U.S. citizen permanent resident or green card holder, workers granted asylum or refugee status

WE VALUE:
  • 8+ years' experience in scientific research and development, engineering, or leadership roles
  • Experience leading a team in designing or operating cryogenic and/or XHV systems.
  • Strong organizational and leadership skills, and experience in working with customers and partners.
  • Experience with Onshape, Comsol, and Ansys tools.
  • Experience in magnetic field simulation and magnetic coil design.
  • Experience performing simulation and modeling to inform experiments.
  • Experience with control systems for data collection, signal processing, and analysis.
  • Experience with electrical and fiber optic feedthroughs.
  • Experience with extreme-high vacuum environments.
  • Experience with trapped ions and ion transport.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with published results within their field of research.

$152,000 - $190,000 a year
Compensation & Benefits:
Incentive Eligible - Range posted is inclusive of bonus target
The pay range for this role is $152,000 - $190,000 annually. Actual compensation within this range may vary based on the candidate's skills, educational background, professional experience, and unique qualifications for the role.
Quantinuum is the world leader in quantum computing. The company's quantum systems deliver the highest performance across all industry benchmarks. Quantinuum's over 650 employees, including 400+ scientists and engineers, across the US, UK, Germany, and Japan, are driving the quantum computing revolution.
By uniting best-in-class software with high-fidelity hardware, our integrated full-stack approach is accelerating the path to practical quantum computing and scaling its impact across multiple industries.
By joining Quantinuum, you'll be at the forefront of this transformative revolution, shaping the future of quantum computing, pushing the limits of technology, and making the impossible possible.
What's in it for you?
A competitive salary and innovative, game-changing work
Flexible work schedule
Employer subsidized health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) match for student loan repayment benefit
Equity, 401k retirement savings plan + 12 Paid holidays and generous vacation + sick time
Paid parental leave
Employee discounts
Quantinuum is an equal opportunity employer. You will be considered without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, or veteran status. Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, there is no application deadline for this position.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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