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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Syntec Optics

Coating Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

... optical simulation tools. • Basic analytical skills, including basic statistical analysis. • Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Windows operating systems. • Must possess ...

Syntec Optics

Optics Designer

Rochester, NY · On-site

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. * 5-10 years of experience in optical design, modeling, and simulation. * Proficiency with optical design software ...

Corning

Optical Coating Engineer

Fairport, NY

As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will ... Carlo simulations. * Engage with Mechanical Design team to design and fabricate prototype and ...

Corning

Optical Coating Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will ... Carlo simulations. * Engage with Mechanical Design team to design and fabricate prototype and ...

Corning

Optical Coating Engineer

Fairport, NY

As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will ... Carlo simulations. * Engage with Mechanical Design team to design and fabricate prototype and ...

Corning

Senior Staff Engineer, Optomechanical

Fairport, NY · On-site

$139K - $191K/yr

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... Develop and validate prototypes using modeling, simulation, and experimental methods * Define ...

L3HHCM20

Associate, Electrical Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$62K - $115K/yr

Perform simulations and present design reviews to peer engineers * Write scripts to control ... Optical Engineering * Knowledge of Code V and/or Zemax software tools PAY TRANSPARENCY: In ...

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All JobsOptical Simulation Engineer JobsOptical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Optical Simulation Engineer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$81.9K

$141.7K

$166.3K

How much do optical simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical simulation engineer in Rochester, NY is $141,696.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $164,800.00 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 Rochester, NY? For Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Optical Simulation Engineer job openings:
Optical Simulation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Simulation Engineer job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,696 per year, or $68.1 per hour.
Coating Engineer

Coating Engineer

Syntec Optics

Rochester, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

The Coating Engineer provides engineering support for vacuum thin-film coating processes used in the manufacturing of optical components. This role working closely with other engineers and manufacturing staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide engineering support for PVD optical coating production, spanning development, production support, and process sustainment.

• Work closely with design, and other manufacturing teams to transition coating solutions into stable and repeatable production processes.

• Support Operations through guidance on substrate preparation, cleaning methods, coating materials, process parameters, tooling, and manufacturing improvements.

• Assist shop-floor personnel with the setup, operation, and interpretation of optical thin-film measurement and characterization tools.

• Investigate and resolve coating-related challenges in a production setting, including process evaluation, data analysis, and documentation of findings.

• Present technical considerations, risks, and tradeoffs to leadership to aid project planning and operational decision-making.

• Enhance coating designs and deposition processes with a focus on yield, performance consistency, scalability, and cost control.

• Drive problem-solving and corrective action efforts for coating process issues using structured analysis methods.

• Develop and deliver training to technicians on optical coating processes, equipment use, and standard operating practices.

• Track process performance and lead initiatives aimed at continuous improvement and manufacturing efficiency.

• Support the optimization and troubleshooting of optical coating equipment and associated processes.

• Raises individual performance to a level that results in proactive responses to problem solving and continuous improvement.

• Performs other related duties and assignments as required, depending on candidate skill set and on an as-needed basis to support evolving business needs.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk and/or hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle or feel. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch and/or crawl. The employee must also occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision and color vision. Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete and abstract variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. The noise level in the work environment may range from moderate.

Education, Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in optical, electrical, manufacturing or mechanical engineering. Experience will be considered in lieu of degree.

• Proficiency in optical thin film deposition, optical monitoring, high vacuum technology, optical measurements, process controls and management.

• Familiar with optical testing such as spectrophotometry, stress measurements, environmental testing and laser damage.

• Proficiency in coating design software and optical simulation tools.

• Basic analytical skills, including basic statistical analysis.

• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Windows operating systems.

• Must possess experience related to troubleshooting and repairing optical coating chambers.

• Availability outside of normal business hours to answer technical related questions.

• Good oral and written communication skills.

• Strong time management skills.

• Work independently with minimal supervision.