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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

APEX TK

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

... optics/radar/RF) * Use and develop cutting-edge modeling and simulation tools and algorithms to ... Bachelor's Degree in a STEM related field such as Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Aerospace ...

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based ... Experience with modeling and simulation of optical systems using industry standard tools such as ...

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All JobsOptical Simulation Engineer JobsOptical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Optical Simulation Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$94K

$162.7K

$190.8K

How much do optical simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical simulation engineer in Washington, DC is $162,653.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,100.00 and $189,100.00 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 Washington, DC?

For Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Optical Simulation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Simulation Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $162,653 per year, or $78.2 per hour.

Modeling & Simulation Engineer

Waypoint Human Capital

Chantilly, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Modeling & Simulation Engineer
Position Type: Full-time; Onsite
Position Location: Chantilly, VA
Clearance Required: Active TS/SCI CI Poly
Waypoint’s client is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Modeling & Simulation Engineer to join their team supporting a critical government client. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects within the aerospace domain.
Responsibilities:
  • Define modeling requirements from user needs and system architecture and develop scripts to automate scenario modeling and performance analysis.
  • Develop models of the end-to-end phenomenology chain, including generating complex EO/IR target signatures (BRDF, thermal), modeling atmospheric radiative transfer using tools like MODTRAN, and integrating realistic cloud clutter and terrain backgrounds.
  • Oversee mission-level simulation to assess ISR constellation performance.
  • Conduct trade studies on future ISR constellations.
  • Assess the resilience of specificized ISR architecture; model the space environment's impact on payload performance, including radiation effects on focal plane arrays, and analyze the vulnerability of established PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing) systems to RF interference.
  • Utilize Python for model development, data analysis, and simulation execution.
  • Leverage AFSIM (or similar aerospace simulation software) for analysis and performance prediction.
  • Incorporate phenomenological modeling principles into relevant models and simulations.

Required Qualifications:
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with Poly.
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in modeling and simulation, preferably within the aerospace industry.
  • Strong proficiency in Python programming.
  • Familiarity with AFSIM or similar aerospace simulation tools.
  • Solid understanding of orbital mechanics and space systems.
  • Experience with phenomenological models, including a demonstrated ability to model relevant physical phenomena and validate those models.
  • Experience modeling solar illumination effects, thermal emissions, Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) for material identification, and temperature dynamics of a target.
  • Experience modeling Radar Cross Section (RCS) for various frequencies and polarizations, and the signatures of active RF emitters.
  • Experience with atmospheric models (like MODTRAN or LibRadtran) to simulate absorption, scattering, turbulence (seeing effects), and path radiance.
  • Experience generating realistic backgrounds, including Earth limb radiance, cloud clutter models, terrain-specific thermal and optical properties, and celestial backgrounds (stars, zodiacal light).
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
  • Experience with other simulation tools and programming languages.
  • Experience with non-cooperative target tracking.
  • Experience with collection & revisit modeling.
  • Experience modeling the dynamics of rapid slewing and settling of the spacecraft bus and pointing systems.
  • Demonstrated experience modeling the end-to-end Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) chain.
  • Knowledge of cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure).

*Waypoint Human Capital is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.