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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Display Module Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$151K - $196K/yr

... and optical simulation (LightTools, FDTD, Zemax, Code V) is strongly desired. Preferred ... Experience in module engineering, module integration, or high-volume manufacturing processes.

Cspeed

Thermal Simulation Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Cspeed IO is developing next-generation optical semiconductor solutions for the AI infrastructure ... Engineering, Physics, or equivalent practical background. * 6+ years of thermal simulation for ...

Onto

Staff Optical Engineer

Budd Lake, NJ · On-site

$115K - $172K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer will contribute to system development, testing, and continuous ... Design, simulate, and optimize optical subsystems for metrology and inspection tools used in ...

Cspeed

Thermal Simulation Engineer

Palo Alto, CA

The Role This position owns thermal modeling for CspeedIO optical engines, from die-level power ... Engineering, Physics, or equivalent practical background. * 6+ years of thermal simulation for ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Mod/Sim Analyst Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... simulation scenarios Be fluent with the synthesis and application of space object optical ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

The Senior Optical Project Engineer will work in a collaborative team-focused environment of U.S ... simulation scenarios • Be fluent with the synthesis and application of space object optical ...

Coherent

Optical Transceiver Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

Conduct RF simulation of the high speed signal communication link. Debug and troubleshoot optical ... DFM issues from engineering and factory feedback Support transceiver design review for ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$132K - $171K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Mod/Sim Analyst Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... simulation scenarios • Be fluent with the synthesis and application of space object optical ...

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All JobsOptical Simulation Engineer Jobs

Optical Simulation Engineer information

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$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical simulation engineer in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 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.
More about Optical Simulation Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Optical Simulation Engineer job openings:
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Optical Simulation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Simulation Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Display Module Optical Engineer

Apple

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$151K - $196K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 677 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

Apple is seeking a highly motivated Display Module Optical Engineer with a strong passion for next-generation display technologies. Explore optics and develop module-level integration processes for advanced optical components used in future display systems. You will tackle new technical challenges, help create solutions that do not yet exist, and influence the future of interactive and display technologies at Apple.
You will apply your expertise in optics, optical metrology, diffractive optical components, and module integration while collaborating closely with world-class cross-functional teams and top global suppliers to deliver innovative, manufacturable, mass-production solutions.
Description
This individual will serve as a key focal point for new display technology development, driving the implementation of emerging technology platforms into final products. In this role, you will contribute to system-level modeling to support design decisions and validation, working closely with a diverse, multi-disciplinary team. As a directly responsible individual, you will partner with cross-functional teams and suppliers to understand design tolerances and sensitivities, optimize system performance based on critical metrics, and validate system behavior through engineering builds and design of experiments.
The ideal candidate is comfortable working with new technologies, demonstrates flexible and strategic problem-solving, and maintains meticulous attention to detail. You should be highly independent, motivated to deliver results, and capable of tackling challenges beyond your immediate technical domain. Strong communication and presentation skills are essential, along with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, agile, hands-on, and innovation-driven environment that values engineering excellence.
You will be part of something impactful-come join us!
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelors Degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 10+ years of relevant experience
Experience in one or more of the following: optical design and characterization, optical modeling, physical and geometrical optics, semiconductor optoelectronics, display technologies, sensor technologies, and statistical analysis.
Experience leading engineering builds, planning test activities, and managing readiness of module deliverables across development phases
Experience with optical measurement systems for characterization, testing, and validation.
Experience with tools for data acquisition and analysis (Python, LabVIEW), statistical analysis (JMP, MATLAB), and optical simulation (LightTools, FDTD, Zemax, Code V) is strongly desired.
Preferred Qualifications
Masters or PhD in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 5+ years of relevant experience.
Demonstrated ability to take initiative, define tasks, and execute work independently while contributing across multiple programs. Able to balance priorities and support peers with optical expertise.
Experience with display optics is a strong plus.
Strong creativity and analytical thinking in problem-solving and root-cause analysis. Experience linking optical performance issues to process-driven root causes.
Experience in module engineering, module integration, or high-volume manufacturing processes. Direct mass-production experience is highly beneficial.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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