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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

$164K - $213K/yr

Simulate laser parameters with Zemax or relevant software. * Select appropriate components ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field * 10+ years of experience in ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

$130K - $168K/yr

Simulate laser parameters with Zemax or relevant software. * Select appropriate components ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field * 10+ years of experience in ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Simulate laser parameters with Zemax or relevant software. * Select appropriate components ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field * 10+ years of experience in ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Simulate laser parameters with Zemax or relevant software. * Select appropriate components ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field * 10+ years of experience in ...

NSS

Sr. Optical Communications Engineer II

Herndon, VA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

New

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Simulate laser parameters with Zemax or relevant software. * Select appropriate components ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field * 10+ years of experience in ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$100 - $135/hr

Simulate laser parameters with Excel or Zemax. * Interpret stray light analysis and generate ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or related field * 15+ years of experience in optical ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

Simulate laser parameters with Zemax or relevant software. * Select appropriate components ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field * 10+ years of experience in ...

Fibertek, Inc

Senior Optical Communications Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Title Senior Optical Communications Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US ... Experience with modeling and simulation of optical systems using industry standard tools such as ...

Fibertek, Inc.

Senior Optical Communications Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Title Senior Optical Communications Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US ... Experience with modeling and simulation of optical systems using industry standard tools such as ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 20, 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 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 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 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.

Principal Optical Engineer

QinetiQ

Lorton, VA

$164K - $213K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Company Overview
We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).
QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.
Why Join QinetiQ US?
If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.
Position Overview
QinetiQ US is looking for a Principal Optical Engineer experienced in electro-optic/ infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor optical design, laboratory optical characterization, and prototype integration with a willingness to learn new skills to join our team.
In this role you will contribute directly to products and systems ensuring our Warfighters have overmatch against our adversaries and our Homeland is secure. You'll support programs to provide our customers with capabilities like long-range optics for scout surveillance and fires support, body-worn EOIR sensors, fire control, and more- you'll help provide the sensing capability that enables the 'observe' stage of the OODA (observe, orient, decide, act) loop.
You will work with Key technologies, including:
  • Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR)
  • EOIR sensors
  • Tactical lasers, Class 1-4
  • Optical boresight and stabilization

Success in this role is defined as delivering robust EOIR optical designs, guiding prototype integration, and collaborating effectively across engineering disciplines to transition systems into production.
Responsibilities
Lead the design and development of multi-band multi-aperture EOIR imaging sensor, lens, and laser subassemblies for next-generation defense systems. Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support the entire product life cycle, from conceptualization, prototyping, validation, manufacturing, fielding, to sustainment. This role will have responsibility in the following areas:
  • Requirements Analysis and Specification Definition
    • Decompose customer system requirements and performance specifications and define opto-mechanical, imaging sensor, and display specifications.
    • Perform DRI (detection, recognition, identification) range analysis of multi-band electro-optical/ infrared (EOIR) systems.
  • Imaging Sensor Optical Design
    • Generate baseline reference optical designs in Zemax or similar software for further design and fabrication by external vendors.
    • Simulate laser parameters with Zemax or relevant software.
    • Select appropriate components including, sensors, displays, optical stabilization systems, and lenses, and lasers to meet program requirements.
    • Interpret stray light analysis and generate specific design recommendations for baffles, coatings, stops, etc., to minimize stray light in systems.
  • Laboratory Optical Characterization
    • Maintain and utilize an optical laboratory to support development, testing, and prototyping efforts, including equipment such as integrating spheres, collimators, optical alignment stations for centration and tip/tilt, and more.
    • Characterize performance of EOIR sensors, typically broadband focal plane array type.
    • Test and validate delivered optical assemblies to ensure compliance with specifications and requirements.
    • Design new tests and test stations and construct laboratory apparatus as needed to support program test and validation requirements.
  • Prototype Integration
    • Build and integrate EOIR prototype subsystems, including cameras, optics, and lasers.
    • Perform precise alignment and boresighting of optical components and sub-assemblies in multi-aperture multi-band and imaging and laser systems.
  • Transition to Manufacturing
    • Generate technical documentation and reports.
    • Provide optical subject matter expertise to program managers and manufacturing staff.
    • Assist in creating manufacturing work instructions.
    • Transition relevant fabrication or test benches from the prototyping to manufacturing environments.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field
  • 10+ years of experience in imaging and laser optical design, including:
    • Specifying EOIR and imaging sensor optical components
    • Modeling imaging sensor systems to predict system performance for detection, recognition, and identification range of objects
    • Designing and modeling lenses and other optical components in Zemax, CODE V, or other relevant industry-standard software packages
    • Integrating imaging sensors, optical assemblies, and lasers into optical benches and system prototypes
    • Manipulating visible and invisible pulsed and continuous laser sources
    • Working in laboratory environments including expertise with opto-mechanical assembly, alignment tools, optical bore sighting
  • Knowledgeable in techniques and specifications for Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and Fast Steering Mirrors (FSM)
  • Occasional (up 10%) travel to support project needs, including to QinetiQ sites, customer sites, military installations, and other locations
  • Must currently hold an Active DoD Secret or higher-level clearance #qinetiqclearedjob

Preferred Qualifications
  • Background working in the defense or aerospace industry
  • Experience modeling sensor systems in NVIPM (Night Vision Integrated Performance Model) or similar package
  • Ability to mentor junior optical engineers
  • Hyperspectral system design
  • Strong technical writing and presentation skills
  • Experience with laser designators, laser range finders, laser dazzlers, and other tactical laser systems, and methods of beam steering
  • Experience specifying displays, especially near-eye displays for systems such as sights, binoculars, and AR/VR systems
  • A solid knowledge of relevant optical component suppliers

Pay Transparency
The salary range for this role is $164,500- $213,500 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. QinetiQ US 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.
Company EEO Statement
Accessibility/Accommodation:
If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to staffing@us.QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 1 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.
QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.

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