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Photonics Simulation Consultant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AVA Consulting is seeking an Applied Quantum Researcher Location: Ann Arbor, MI U.S. Citizens and ... Simulation & Design: Background in integrated photonics design and Finite-Difference Time-Domain ...

Founded in 1996, CTC is a global IT services, Consulting and Business Solutions partner dedicated ... Simulation & Design: Background in integrated photonics design and Finite-Difference Time-Domain ...

Founded in 1996, CTC is a global IT services, Consulting and Business Solutions partner dedicated ... Simulation & Design: Background in integrated photonics design and Finite-Difference Time-Domain ...

Photonics Simulation Consultant information

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$39K

$123.4K

$190.5K

How much do photonics simulation consultant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for photonics simulation consultant in the United States is $123,399.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,000.00 and $146,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Photonics Simulation Consultant do?

A Photonics Simulation Consultant specializes in modeling, analyzing, and optimizing photonic devices and systems using advanced simulation software. They help organizations design optical components—such as lasers, waveguides, and sensors—by predicting their performance in various environments. Their expertise enables companies to reduce prototyping costs, accelerate innovation, and ensure product reliability. Consultants often work across industries like telecommunications, healthcare, and manufacturing, collaborating with engineers and researchers to solve complex photonics challenges.

What is the difference between Photonics Simulation Consultant vs Photonics Design Engineer?

AspectPhotonics Simulation ConsultantPhotonics Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in optics, photonics, or related fields; proficiency in simulation softwareBachelor's or Master's in electrical engineering, optics, or photonics; strong design and testing skills
Work EnvironmentConsulting firms, R&D labs, project-based settingsProduct development teams, manufacturing companies, R&D labs
Industry UsageUsed for analyzing and optimizing photonics systems through simulationsInvolved in designing, prototyping, and testing photonics devices and systems

While both roles require expertise in photonics and related software, Photonics Simulation Consultants focus on analyzing and optimizing systems through simulations, often working in consulting or research environments. Photonics Design Engineers are more involved in creating and testing physical photonics devices, working within product development teams. Both roles are essential in the photonics industry but differ in their primary focus and daily tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Photonics Simulation Consultant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Photonics Simulation Consultant, you need a solid background in physics or engineering, expertise in photonics, and experience with numerical modeling, often supported by a relevant degree (such as MSc or PhD). Proficiency with simulation tools like Lumerical, COMSOL Multiphysics, or CST Studio Suite, and familiarity with scripting languages like Python or MATLAB, are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills help in translating client needs into robust technical solutions. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering accurate simulations, supporting innovative photonics designs, and ensuring effective collaboration with diverse clients and teams.

What are some common challenges faced by Photonics Simulation Consultants when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams?

Photonics Simulation Consultants often work alongside engineers, physicists, and software developers, which can present challenges in communicating complex simulation results to non-specialists. Bridging the knowledge gap and ensuring that simulation data informs practical design decisions requires clear communication and adaptability. Additionally, aligning simulation parameters with real-world manufacturing constraints is a frequent hurdle. Successfully addressing these challenges not only ensures project success but also helps build strong, collaborative relationships across disciplines.
More about Photonics Simulation Consultant jobs
What cities are hiring for Photonics Simulation Consultant jobs? Cities with the most Photonics Simulation Consultant job openings:
What states have the most Photonics Simulation Consultant jobs? States with the most job openings for Photonics Simulation Consultant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Photonics Simulation Consultant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,399 per year, or $59.3 per hour.
Applied Quantum Researcher

Applied Quantum Researcher

AVA Consulting

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

AVA Consulting is seeking an Applied Quantum Researcher

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

U.S. Citizens and those authorized to work in the U.S. are encouraged to apply. We are unable to sponsor at this time.

Company Background: Our client, a major employer in the area, is looking for an Applied Quantum Researcher to be part of its team in its North American operations.

Job Description:

Duty & Responsibility:

  • Design and implement quantum photonic devices and components, especially related to quantum communication, single photon generation, entanglement, and low count measurement techniques. Design assembly of components into subsystems.
  • Conduct research on quantum information and quantum communication techniques such as squeezed light, quantum interference, and mode decomposition.
  • Investigate Client methodologies for applied quantum techniques outside of information applications.
  • Design and execute rigorous experiments to characterize quantum photonics devices and components under various environmental conditions (temperature, vibration, magnetic fields) to ensure robustness.
  • Contribute to efforts to establish quantum information test bench, including the development of standardized calibration and automated measurement system. Develop and test single photon sources and implementation into larger systems. Optimize system performance while maintaining quantum state.
  • Ability to work within and contribute to cross-disciplinary research teams with key deliverables including prototypes, intellectual property, and publications (an active interest in publishing is highly desirable).
  • Willingness to participate in, support, and contribute to work-place safety culture and activities.

Requirements:

Required education and experience:

  • PhD. in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Quantum Systems: Deep understanding of entanglement, mode decomposition, nonlinear generation of states and spin physics
  • Optical Systems: Proficiency in laser systems, optical design, precision coupling, free-space alignment, and photon detection
  • Instrumentation: Hands-on experience with chip-scale photonics testing, precision fiber alignment, instrument coordination/synchronization, and rigorous data validation.
  • Programming: Strong skills in Python, MATLAB, or similar for data analysis and instrument control
  • Scientific Writing: Clear communication of results to internal research teams using graphs, mathematics, etc.

Preferred Skills:

  • Simulation & Design: Background in integrated photonics design and Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) simulation tools (e.g., Lumerical, COMSOL, CST).
  • Electronics: Familiarity with high-speed electronics design, PCB layout, and optoelectronic packaging.
  • Fabrication: Experience with nanofabrication techniques (e-beam lithography, etching) is a plus.

NOTE: Interested Candidates can apply by sending their Updated Resume and Contact Details.

Ron Tolson

AVA Consulting

Fax:

Web:


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About AVA Consulting

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AVA is a Premier provider of Top Talent resources for our Client’s Open Job Positions. AVA has consistently been recognized as a “GO TO” Company by our Clients for their resource needs. As a Staffing Services company, we provide Contract (Temporary), Contract to Hire (Temporary to Permanent), Permanent (Direct Placement) and Statement of Work (SOW) resources to Fortune 1000 clients nationwide.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Dallas, TX, US

Year founded

2004