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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Pasadena, CA

K2 Space

Avionics Test Engineer, Optical

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $150K/yr

As an Optical Avionics Test Engineer, you will be pivotal in developing production test hardware ... Design device simulators deployed across component subsystem and HITL testbeds * Collaborate with a ...

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All JobsOptical Simulation Engineer JobsOptical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Pasadena, CA

Optical Simulation Engineer information

See Pasadena, CA salary details

$90.5K

$156.7K

$183.8K

How much do optical simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical simulation engineer in Pasadena, CA is $156,651.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $140,700.00 and $182,200.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA? For Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA are:
What cities near Pasadena, CA are hiring for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Optical Simulation Engineer job openings:
Optical Simulation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Simulation Engineer job openings in Pasadena, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $156,651 per year, or $75.3 per hour.

Associate Mechanical Engineer (Intern / Co-Op)

Mesh Optical Technologies

Gardena, CA • On-site

$26 - $38/hr

Full-time, Internship

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

ASSOCIATE MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Mesh Optical Technologies was founded on the belief that optical photons will be at the center of advanced technologies in the coming century. Making advanced technology ubiquitous means building at scale, and that's exactly what we're doing at Mesh.

Our interns and co-ops are embedded in the engineering team and own real work-not side projects. We are seeking an Associate Mechanical Engineer to contribute directly to the design and build of both our optical interconnect product and the factory that produces it.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Design and build development test platforms that allow our team to characterize various thermal, optical, and electrical aspects of our optical interconnect prototypes
  • Work with your mentor to identify improvements to our production process, then own rapid-prototype hardware that goes from CAD to the cleanroom in days
  • Support your designs with finite element analysis, thermal simulations, and detailed drawings with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Work hands-on and alongside a multidisciplinary team of engineers as we develop our high-volume optical manufacturing facility

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

  • Pursuing or recently completed a BS or graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related) with a GPA of 3.5 or greater
  • Portfolio of hands-on projects-Formula SAE, SolarCar, Robotics, CubeSats, or other club/personal builds
  • Proficient with modern CAD software and version control
  • Strong analytical mindset, first-principles problem solving, and clear communication

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

  • Your projects demonstrate not just mechanical engineering aptitude but also multidisciplinary knowledge of electrical engineering and software engineering concepts

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range: 
Associate Mechanical Engineer: $26.00 - $38.00/per hour

Base salary is determined based your academic year. In addition to base salary, compensation for this role includes a flexible monthly housing and transportation stipend during your time in Los Angeles.

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