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Optical Simulation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gener8, LLC

Sr. Engineer, Optical

San Jose, CA · On-site

$104K - $174K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Engineer, Optical Reporting to: Director Engineering Location: San Jose, California ... Optical design skills and knowledge of ZEMAX or similar optical simulation packages. * Hands on ...

Blue Origin

Mission Simulation Engineer III

Denver, CO · On-site

The simulation scope spans both RF and optical link domains, including inter-satellite links and ... Partner with systems engineering teams to define and validate constellation-level performance ...

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 ...

APEX TK LLC

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

... 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 ...

Gener8, LLC

Sr. Engineer, Optical

San Jose, CA · On-site

$104K - $174K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Engineer, Optical Reporting to: Director Engineering Location: San Jose, California ... Optical design skills and knowledge of ZEMAX or similar optical simulation packages. * Hands on ...

Gener8, LLC

Sr. Engineer, Optical

San Jose, CA · On-site

$104K - $174K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Engineer, Optical Reporting to: Director Engineering Location: San Jose, California ... Optical design skills and knowledge of ZEMAX or similar optical simulation packages. * Hands on ...

Optikos, LLC.

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA

$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 ...

Eridu AI

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 ...

Apple

AR/VR Design Validation Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$184K - $324K/yr

This role balances optical simulation pipeline development with hands-on responsibility for defining engineering builds, designing experiments, conducting failure mode analysis, and translating ...

Optikos Corporation

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 ...

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Optical Simulation Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 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 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.

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:

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 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% 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.

Sr. Engineer, Optical

Gener8, LLC

San Jose, CA • On-site

$104K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

 

Job Title:

Sr. Engineer, Optical

Reporting to:

Director Engineering

Location:

San Jose, California

Job Site:

On-Site

Job Description Revision Date:

August 3, 2026

 

About us:

We know what it takes to be a key partner in life science and medical industries. Since 2002, Gener8 has guided our customers by turning their innovative concepts into reality by providing engineering design services and manufacturing complex instruments, software, and consumables.  Our customers are striving for breakthroughs in research instruments and medical diagnostic and surgical devices that will help scientists and medical professionals understand patient conditions and provide better treatment. Gener8 has offices in San Jose and Carlsbad, CA, Wilmington, MA, Indianapolis, IN and Cartago, Costa Rica.  

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Hands on assembly and alignment of optical systems
  • Ability to work with an interdisciplinary team including senior optical engineers in design of instruments.
  • Perform hands-on tests, with data collection, analysis, and presentation of data to project teams and customers.

Required Education: 

  • Minimum MSc with emphasis on optics.
  • At least 2-5 years’ experience in a relevant field.

 

Required Experience:

  • Optical design skills and knowledge of ZEMAX or similar optical simulation packages.
  • Hands on assembly and alignment of optical systems
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly with interdisciplinary teams, both verbally and in writing. 
  • Gener8 values diversity in our workplace. Our company provides equal opportunity for employment to qualified applicants based on experience and the ability to do the available work, without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex/gender, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, disability, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, ancestry, or any other status protected by law. We are committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.
  • We are an Everify Employer. Due to the nature of our projects, you must be a US Permanent Resident or a US Citizen for consideration.

 

Company Benefits:

Health, Dental and Vision insurance; 401(k); Life insurance; STD, LTD; Flexible spending account, Health savings account; Paid time off; Employee discounts, Referral program.

Gener8 logo

About Gener8

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Sunnyvale, CA, US

Year founded

2002

Social media

Facebook

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