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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Temecula, CA

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Optical Simulation Engineer information

See Temecula, CA salary details

$82.5K

$142.7K

$167.4K

How much do optical simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical simulation engineer in Temecula, CA is $142,678.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,200.00 and $165,900.00 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 job categories do people searching Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Temecula, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Temecula, CA are:
What cities near Temecula, CA are hiring for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities near Temecula, CA with the most Optical Simulation Engineer job openings:
Optical Simulation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Simulation Engineer job openings in Temecula, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $142,678 per year, or $68.6 per hour.
III-V Device Design Engineer for Silicon Photonics Integration

III-V Device Design Engineer for Silicon Photonics Integration

Skorpios Technologies

Temecula, CA • On-site

$128K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Skorpios Technologies, Inc., an innovator in heterogeneous integration of silicon photonic technology and semiconductor development, is rapidly expanding. We are in search of a top-level III-V Device Design Engineer for developing next-generation Si Photonics chip and module products. This is an opportunity to work with a highly motivated, high performance technical team on highly differentiated, disruptive technology.
The III-V Device Design Engineer for Silicon Photonics integration role is responsible for supporting the development of next generation Si-Photonic Data Communications solutions in Skorpios' Integration and Process Development Engineering team. The III-V Device Design Engineer will develop high performance III-V devices including high-power and high efficiency Laser, EAM and MZM high-speed modulators, Uni Traveling Carrier high-speed photodetectors. The design must be tailored for our unique technology platform and optimized for meeting challenging specs. The tasks include electrical, RF, and optical simulations, design for fabrication and testing, design review, working with layout engineers, characterization of devices, data analysis, and performance report.
Responsibilities:
  • Design, Model and Simulate high efficiency Laser, EAM and MZM high-speed modulators, Uni Traveling Carrier high-speed photodetectors.
  • Model and Simulate Resistance and Capacitance effects from EAM and MZM Modulators, Photodiodes and Laser Diodes to provide improved RF performance of the components into integrated circuits
  • Perform impedance matching over large frequency range
  • Establish tolerance and process design rules to enable DRC for Designs and Layouts
  • Direct HPIC Layout of designed components
  • DOE Design and Design Validation Testing
  • Design Review Support and Presentation
  • Design for Manufacturability (DFM).
  • Establish schematics Designs for Layout.
  • Using computer software to design III-V components and optimize for RF performance of optical to electrical conversion efficiency.
  • RF device testing and electrical/optical s-parameter measurement and characterization

Competencies
  • Ability to work in an integrated and diverse team environment.
  • Ability to work with a large body of data and the necessary statistical analysis tools, and the ability to present the data and ideas to a diverse audience.
  • Good communication skills.
  • Ability to present complex problems to internal peers as well as potential customers
  • III-V and RF design circuitry skills
  • Problem solving and trouble shooting skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel
  • Proficiency with Software Design Tools like Ansis Lumerical
  • Interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills

Requirements
  • 10+ years' experience
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Material Science or a related field. Photonics or a related discipline with emphasis in optical communications and high speed optical III-V components.
  • Deep understanding of Lasers, MZM, photodiodes and EAM devices is a must.
  • Extensive industrial experience in photonics (Si or III-V) device design and characterization is preferred, with a proven track record of success, from concept to manufacturing. Alternatively, PhD graduate who has done outstanding research work on directly related devices may be accepted for the position.
  • Solid understanding of Epitaxy constraints, band structures, quantum effects, carriers' diffusion, optical modes for optical communications.
  • Understand how to design various III-V devices, including high-power and high efficiency Laser, EAM and MZM high-speed modulators, Uni Traveling Carrier high-speed photodetectors.
  • Proficient in design and simulations for III-V active photonic devices.
  • Familiar with optoelectrical device characterization and analysis.
  • Familiar with components reliability concepts.
  • Able to work with processing engineers to define fabrication methods.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with demonstrated track of record.
  • Able to work hard in a dynamic start-up environment.
  • Thrives in fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent verbal and writing communication skills.

Preferred Education and Experience
  • Desired are candidates with significant industrial experience in the III-V components industry.
  • Ansys Lumerical, Zemax and Speos, JMP or Mini-Tab Experience preferred.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance Requirements
Authorization may be required to release covered technology to employees who are not U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, asylees, or refugees

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