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

Raytheon

Senior FPGA Design Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$122K - $168K/yr

... RF) and Electro-Optical (EO) DSP, controls, data links, embedded processing and processor ... perform code development, simulation, and place and route. Designs are verified against ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Chandler, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Tempe, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Scottsdale, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Glendale, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Phoenix, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Gilbert, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Mesa, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... Adapts instruction using worked problems, PhET simulations, and laboratory-connected examples to ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Physics Tutor

Gilbert, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ... Adapts instruction using demonstrations, PhET simulations, and scaffolded problem sets to support ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Physics Tutor

Phoenix, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ... Adapts instruction using demonstrations, PhET simulations, and scaffolded problem sets to support ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Physics Tutor

Chandler, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ... Adapts instruction using demonstrations, PhET simulations, and scaffolded problem sets to support ...

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All JobsOptical Simulation Engineer JobsOptical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

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 Jul 21, 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
Senior FPGA Design Engineer

Senior FPGA Design Engineer

Raytheon

Phoenix, AZ

$122K - $168K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Raytheon rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 528 rated manufacturers

Job description

Date Posted:

2026-07-16

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-AZ-TUCSON-M02 ~ 1151 E Hermans Rd ~ BLDG M02

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance​

Security Clearance Type:

DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status:

Ability to obtain INTERIM U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date

At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.  
 
Raytheon brings the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat. We deliver solutions that help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression, creating a safer, more secure world. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. 


As a Senior FPGA Design Engineer you will develop FPGA designs for all major vendors and device families including: Xilinx, Altera, and Microsemi. Designs are implemented using VHDL for the following applications: gigabit serial interfaces, Radio Frequency (RF) and Electro-Optical (EO) DSP, controls, data links, embedded processing and processor interfaces.

Designers work with circuit card designers and systems engineers to develop requirements, architect new parts, collaborative modeling of algorithms, partition and perform code development, simulation, and place and route. Designs are verified against requirements using both directed test and constrained random methodologies. Design support is expected from requirements definition through integration and test. Design documentation and configuration management are required.
What You Will Do

  • Design and deliver production quality FPGA releases from initial proof of concept up to production

  • Architect FPGA-based systems to determine parts, interfaces, and Concept of Operations (CONOPS)

  • Translate system level requirements into FPGA requirements

  • Design and code in VHDL for reliability and maintainability

  • Verify designs utilizing self-checking techniques with directed and constrained random tests, while tracking functional and code coverage

  • Help drive projects and execute program schedules on time and budget

  • Create complete documentation including requirements, verification plan, and user’s guides

  • Lead small teams and mentor junior engineers

  • Support internal and external technical reviews


Qualifications You Must Have

  • Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of 5 years of prior relevant experience

Experience with at least one of the following:

  • FPGA/ASIC design, including VHDL and/or Verilog coding or FPGA/ASIC verification using SystemVerilog coding  

  • Working with Xilinx or Microsemi devices and associated flow tools  

  • Delivering FPGA/ASIC solutions for system-level applications  

Qualifications We Prefer

  • FPGA/ASIC design experience in one or more of the following areas:

  • Hands-on experience with integration and debugging of FPGA/ASIC devices  

  • Radar processing techniques

  • Image processing techniques for visual and infrared sensors

  • Embedded systems design using ARM, Microblaze, or Nios processors

  • Gigabit serial interfaces and multi-gigabit transceivers (MGTs)

  • Constrained random verification in UVM using System Verilog

  • Verification utilizing emulation platforms, such as Veloce


What We Offer

Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Safety, Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.

Relocation

9/8 Schedule – every other Friday off!

Learn More & Apply Now!

This position is onsite work in Tucson, AZ: https://careers.rtx.com/global/en/raytheon-tucson,-az-location

Please consider the following role type definition as you apply for this role: 

‒ Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products. 

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 86,800 USD - 165,200 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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