Strong numerical simulation skills and optics knowledge is required. Join us in crafting solutions ... Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, and Hardware Test Engineering) to ...
Strong numerical simulation skills and optics knowledge is required. Join us in crafting solutions ... Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, and Hardware Test Engineering) to ...
Conduct sensor phenomenology studies, including optical, infrared, or radar modeling for detection ... simulation. Qualifications Required Education and Experience: * Bachelor's Aerospace Engineering ...
Conduct sensor phenomenology studies, including optical, infrared, or radar modeling for detection ... simulation. Qualifications Required Education and Experience: * Bachelor's Aerospace Engineering ...
Modeling & Simulation Engineer Position Type: Full-time; Onsite Position Location: Chantilly, VA ... specific thermal and optical properties, and celestial backgrounds (stars, zodiacal light)
Modeling & Simulation Engineer Position Type: Full-time; Onsite Position Location: Chantilly, VA ... specific thermal and optical properties, and celestial backgrounds (stars, zodiacal light)
Network Simulation Engineer
Saratoga, CA · On-site
... optics, software, and systems. Eridu is working with best-in-class supply chain partners including ... Position Overview We are seeking a highly motivated Network Simulation Engineer to lead the ...
Network Simulation Engineer
Saratoga, CA · On-site
... optics, software, and systems. Eridu is working with best-in-class supply chain partners including ... Position Overview We are seeking a highly motivated Network Simulation Engineer to lead the ...
Staff Optical Engineer
$130K - $165K/yr
The Staff Optical Engineer is recognized as a key technical expert and collaborates cross ... Perform advanced optical modeling, simulation, and optimization using industry tools such as Zemax ...
Staff Optical Engineer
$130K - $165K/yr
The Staff Optical Engineer is recognized as a key technical expert and collaborates cross ... Perform advanced optical modeling, simulation, and optimization using industry tools such as Zemax ...
Staff Optical Engineer
Wakefield, MA · On-site
$130K - $165K/yr
The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the ... Perform advanced optical modeling, simulation, and optimization using industry tools such as Zemax ...
Staff Optical Engineer
Wakefield, MA · On-site
$130K - $165K/yr
The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the ... Perform advanced optical modeling, simulation, and optimization using industry tools such as Zemax ...
Optical Sensing HW - Sensing Hardware Engineer
Cupertino, CA · On-site
$159K - $206K/yr
... optical simulation tools (LightTools, Lumerical, COMSOL, etc.) Experience supporting volume ... Engineering or equivalent.
Optical Sensing HW - Sensing Hardware Engineer
Cupertino, CA · On-site
$159K - $206K/yr
... optical simulation tools (LightTools, Lumerical, COMSOL, etc.) Experience supporting volume ... Engineering or equivalent.
Knowledge of electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor modeling and simulation. * Proficiency in C++ and Python for scientific computing and model development. Preferred Qualifications * Top Secret ...
Knowledge of electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor modeling and simulation. * Proficiency in C++ and Python for scientific computing and model development. Preferred Qualifications * Top Secret ...
Optical Systems Engineer
Reading, MA · On-site
$111K - $178K/yr
Opportunity Overview As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will support the development of advanced ... Familiarity with optical design, simulation, or data analysis tools (e.g., Zemax, Code V, MATLAB ...
Optical Systems Engineer
Reading, MA · On-site
$111K - $178K/yr
Opportunity Overview As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will support the development of advanced ... Familiarity with optical design, simulation, or data analysis tools (e.g., Zemax, Code V, MATLAB ...
Optical Sensing HW - Sensing Hardware Engineer
Cupertino, CA · On-site
$159K - $206K/yr
... optical simulation tools (LightTools, Lumerical, COMSOL, etc.) Experience supporting volume ... Engineering or equivalent.
Optical Sensing HW - Sensing Hardware Engineer
Cupertino, CA · On-site
$159K - $206K/yr
... optical simulation tools (LightTools, Lumerical, COMSOL, etc.) Experience supporting volume ... Engineering or equivalent.
Staff Optical Engineer
Wakefield, MA · On-site
$130K - $165K/yr
The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the ... Perform advanced optical modeling, simulation, and optimization using industry tools such as Zemax ...
Staff Optical Engineer
Wakefield, MA · On-site
$130K - $165K/yr
The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the ... Perform advanced optical modeling, simulation, and optimization using industry tools such as Zemax ...
Staff Optical Engineer
$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 ...
Staff Optical Engineer
$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 ...
Optical Systems Engineer
$111K - $178K/yr
Opportunity Overview As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will support the development of advanced ... Familiarity with optical design, simulation, or data analysis tools (e.g., Zemax, Code V, MATLAB ...
Optical Systems Engineer
$111K - $178K/yr
Opportunity Overview As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will support the development of advanced ... Familiarity with optical design, simulation, or data analysis tools (e.g., Zemax, Code V, MATLAB ...
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.
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.
Perform link budget, latency, and throughput analyses for RF, optical relay, and space-to-ground ... simulation, or engineering analysis * Experience using one or more of the following tools or ...
Perform link budget, latency, and throughput analyses for RF, optical relay, and space-to-ground ... simulation, or engineering analysis * Experience using one or more of the following tools or ...
FTS has as opportunity for a Modeling, Simulation & Analysis Engineer in Chantilly, VA. The ... Perform link budget, latency, and throughput analyses for RF and optical space-based relay and ...
FTS has as opportunity for a Modeling, Simulation & Analysis Engineer in Chantilly, VA. The ... Perform link budget, latency, and throughput analyses for RF and optical space-based relay and ...
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 ...
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 ...
Senior Optical Engineer
Princeton, NJ · On-site
Perform detailed optical and mechanical tolerance analyses and simulations. * Build and test ... Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams and external vendors. * Create technical ...
Quick apply
Senior Optical Engineer
Princeton, NJ · On-site
Perform detailed optical and mechanical tolerance analyses and simulations. * Build and test ... Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams and external vendors. * Create technical ...
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, a ... Experience in one or more of the following: optical design, image sensor design and ...
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, a ... Experience in one or more of the following: optical design, image sensor design and ...
ABOUT THE JOB As a Modeling and Simulation Engineer, you will design mission trajectories, build ... As such, general space knowledge, space domain awareness (optics, radar, space-based), satellite ...
ABOUT THE JOB As a Modeling and Simulation Engineer, you will design mission trajectories, build ... As such, general space knowledge, space domain awareness (optics, radar, space-based), satellite ...
Optical Simulation Engineer information
See salary details
$83K - $90.8K
0% of jobs
$90.8K - $98.5K
0% of jobs
$98.5K - $106.3K
0% of jobs
$106.3K - $114.1K
0% of jobs
$114.1K - $121.9K
0% of jobs
$126.9K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$121.9K - $129.6K
38% of jobs
The median wage is $133.2K / yr.
$129.6K - $137.4K
26% of jobs
$137.4K - $145.2K
0% of jobs
$145.2K - $153K
0% of jobs
$153K - $160.7K
0% of jobs
$163.1K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$160.7K - $168.5K
36% of jobs
$83K
$143.6K
$168.5K
How much do optical simulation engineer jobs pay per year?
As of Jun 30, 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?
| Aspect | Optical Simulation Engineer | Optical Design Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Bachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering; proficiency in simulation software | Bachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering; strong design and analytical skills |
| Work Environment | Primarily uses simulation tools to model optical systems; collaborates with design teams | Designs and develops optical components and systems; often involved in prototyping |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Optics companies, research labs, aerospace, and defense | Optics 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:
What states have the most Optical Simulation Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Simulation Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Simulation Engineer jobs are:
$181K - $318K/yr
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Retirement
Posted 24 days ago
Apple rating
8.1
Based on 666 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
5th of 30 rated technology retailers
Job description
Design, develop, and launch next-generation optical-sensing technologies. The optical sensing team integrates optical sensors across a variety of Apple products such as iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. The optical sensing team is looking for someone to develop models and algorithms to describe complex interactions between optical systems. Strong numerical simulation skills and optics knowledge is required. Join us in crafting solutions the world doesn't know of yet.
Description
You will be developing numerical algorithms that enable the integration of optical sensors into our products. You will be expected to characterize complex optical/electrical interactions and develop models to describe their behavior. You will develop algorithms based on those models, and collaborate with cross-functional teams (including Optical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, and Hardware Test Engineering) to integrate those algorithms into the calibration and operation of our products’ state-of-the-art sensing solutions.","responsibilities":"Develop numerical models for complex optical/electrical systems
Develop compensation and calibration algorithms based on those models
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate algorithms into our products and factories
Characterize system behavior to drive model development and validation
Preferred Qualifications
Experience developing calibration algorithms for optical systems
Knowledge of display technology and/or Electrical Engineering
Experience with optical lab equipment (spectrometers, detector, oscilloscope, etc.) and lab experiments
Excellent documentation skills
MS or PhD in Optics, Physics, Math, or Electrical Engineering
Minimum Qualifications
Experience with optical simulation and characterization of optical sensors
Strong mathematical/numerical simulation skills, including programming in MATLAB, Python, or similar
BS and a minimum of 10 years relevant industry experience
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $181,100 and $318,400, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.
Description
You will be developing numerical algorithms that enable the integration of optical sensors into our products. You will be expected to characterize complex optical/electrical interactions and develop models to describe their behavior. You will develop algorithms based on those models, and collaborate with cross-functional teams (including Optical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, and Hardware Test Engineering) to integrate those algorithms into the calibration and operation of our products’ state-of-the-art sensing solutions.","responsibilities":"Develop numerical models for complex optical/electrical systems
Develop compensation and calibration algorithms based on those models
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate algorithms into our products and factories
Characterize system behavior to drive model development and validation
Preferred Qualifications
Experience developing calibration algorithms for optical systems
Knowledge of display technology and/or Electrical Engineering
Experience with optical lab equipment (spectrometers, detector, oscilloscope, etc.) and lab experiments
Excellent documentation skills
MS or PhD in Optics, Physics, Math, or Electrical Engineering
Minimum Qualifications
Experience with optical simulation and characterization of optical sensors
Strong mathematical/numerical simulation skills, including programming in MATLAB, Python, or similar
BS and a minimum of 10 years relevant industry experience
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $181,100 and $318,400, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.
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