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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Lead, Digital Design Engineer

Tempe, AZ

$132K/yr

Collaborating with a cross-discipline team of mechanical, optical, software, digital and analog ... Proficient with ModelSim or equivalent tool to simulate, debug, and verify digital design

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Optical Simulation Engineer information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$82.4K

$142.6K

$167.3K

How much do optical simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical simulation engineer in Phoenix, AZ is $142,593.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,100.00 and $165,800.00 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 Phoenix, AZ?

For Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:

Optical Simulation Engineer jobs near you

EO Signal Image Processing Engineer - 2

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Chandler, AZ • On-site

$82K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 540 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Space Systems is looking for anEO Signal Image Processing Engineerto support the Launch Vehicles business unit in Chandler, Arizona.

You will contribute as a team member within the electro-optical infrared (EO/IR) modeling, algorithm, and simulation (MAS) group supporting the Seeker Integrated Product Team (IPT). Under guidance, from senior team members, you will assist in the development and validation of models, image processing algorithms, and simulation tools.

Responsibilities

  • Support the development and application of physics-based models of EO/IR seeker hardware for simulations used in performance analysis and test support.
  • Assist in implementing and testing image/signal processing algorithms within simulation frameworks.
  • Participate in modeling and algorithm projects to meet program schedules.
  • Maintain and modify modeling and analysis tools in C/C++, Python, and MATLAB, in both HPC and lab settings.
  • Collaborate with systems, software, firmware, and hardware team members to carry out M&S tasks and support requirements and verification activities.
  • Support lab and test activities, assist in comparing model predictions with test data, and help update models as needed.
  • Prepare and present technical findings to internal teams, including supporting design and readiness reviews.
  • Follow standards and best practices for coding, documentation, and configuration management, contributing to continuous improvement.

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Math, or related discipline from an accredited university and2 yearsof related experience; or Master's degree.
  • Active U.S. Government DoD Secret security clearanceat time of application, current and within scope.
  • Experience (could be from internships or coursework) with image or signal processing, and implementing algorithms in C, C++, MATLAB, or Python.
  • Understanding basic EO/IR modeling concepts and exposure to hardware-based model validation.
  • Knowledge of optical systems and EO/IR imaging fundamentals.
  • Familiarity with running simulations in high-performance computing (HPC) environments.
  • Ability to work independently on assigned tasks and communicate technical results to team members.

Preferred Qualifications

  • MS in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Math, or related discipline.
  • Active U.S. Government DoD Top Secret security clearanceat time of application, current and within scope.
  • Experience working in a team supporting missile, hypersonic, or other high-reliability systems.
  • Exposure to defense or aerospace development standards or programs.
  • Familiarity with hardware/software integration and real-time or physics-based systems modeling.
  • Coursework or projects using C/C++, MATLAB, Python, and operating in Linux environments.
  • Experience with configuration management tools and industry-standard coding practices.
Primary Level Salary Range: $82,700.00 - $130,800.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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