Apple

Apple

Posted via Apple Careers

Optical Software Engineer

Always Hiring

Posted Aug 7, 2026

Role at a glance

Salary
$150.4K – $225.3K/yr
Location
Cupertino, California, United States
Work arrangement
On-site
Employment
Full-time
Experience
3+ years of relevant industry experience
Education
Bachelor's degree in Optics, Imaging Science, Physics, EE, CS, ME, or relevant field of study

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Role Summary

AI-generated

The Optical Engineering team within Camera Core Technology Engineering is seeking a Simulation Development Engineer to develop optical and imaging simulation solutions for new optical designs and technologies. The role supports early product-design feedback, simulation pipeline validation and deployment, and internal tool adoption across projects.

What You'll Do

  • Develop optical and imaging simulation capabilities and applications to inform design decisions.
  • Work with cross-functional team members to develop end-to-end simulation solutions.
  • Validate simulation pipelines.
  • Deploy simulation algorithms to internal cloud computing platforms.
  • Perform data analysis on results and generate reports for review.
  • Support internal simulation tools across projects, including training and documentation.

Generated from the employer's posting. Verify important details before applying.

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Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Optics, Imaging Science, Physics, EE, CS, ME, or a relevant field; programming experience with Python, Matlab, and/or C/C++/C#; experience modeling and simulating optical systems using Zemax, Code V, or similar tools.

Required

  • Bachelor's degree in Optics, Imaging Science, Physics, EE, CS, ME, or relevant field of study
  • Programming experience (Python, Matlab, and/or C/C++/C#)
  • Experience modeling and simulating optical systems using Zemax, Code V, etc.

Preferred

  • MS or PhD in Optical Sciences, Imaging Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
  • 3+ years of relevant industry experience developing software for optical, imaging, or photonics systems
  • Proficiency in software engineering best practices: version control (Git), unit testing, CI/CD, release distribution and documentation
  • Familiarity with imaging system performance metrics such as PSF, MTF, wavefront error, and optical aberrations
  • Experience deploying simulation or modeling workloads on cloud or HPC platforms (AWS, GCP, or equivalent)
  • Ability to present technical findings and simulation results to cross-functional hardware and product teams
  • Familiarity with Zemax OpticStudio, CODE V, or similar tools; experience scripting or extending these platforms programmatically is a plus

Original job description

Content provided by the employer

Summary

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great work. Every new product we build, service we create, or Apple Store experience we deliver is the result of us making each other’s ideas stronger. That happens because every one of us shares a belief that we can make something wonderful and share it with the world, changing lives for the better. It’s the diversity of our people and their thinking that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do. When we bring everybody in, we can do the best work of our lives. Here, you’ll do more than join something — you’ll add something.

Description

The Optical Engineering team within Camera Core Technology Engineering is seeking a Simulation Development Engineer who will play a critical role in new optical design throughout the development cycle. This engineer will develop state-of-the-art end-to-end modeling and simulation solutions with cross-functional team members for our Optical Imaging Systems that can facilitate provide early feedback to Apple product design and enable novel simulation pipelines for future technologies. This engineer will also be responsible for validation, application, and scale up of the simulation tools. The ideal candidate is someone that is always striving to learn something new, is a self-starter and can work autonomously with high levels of success, is excited about solving new challenging problems with innovative solutions, has experience presenting ideas and building consensus with teammates, and thrives in an environment of smart people and loves to challenge the status quo. Come join us!

Responsibilities

Development of Optical and Imaging simulation capabilities and applications to inform design decisions of new technologies and new optical designs.
Work together with cross-functional team members to develop end-to-end simulation solutions.
Validate simulation pipelines.
Deploy simulation algorithms to internal cloud computing platforms.
Perform data analysis on results and generate reports for review.
Support internal simulation tools across projects including training and documentation.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Optics, Imaging Science, Physics, EE, CS, ME, or relevant field of study.
Programming experience (Python, Matlab, and/or C/C++/C#).
Experience modeling and simulating optical systems using Zemax, Code V, etc.

Preferred Qualifications

MS or PhD in Optical Sciences, Imaging Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
3+ years of relevant industry experience developing software for optical, imaging, or photonics systems
Proficiency in software engineering best practices: version control (Git), unit testing, CI/CD, release distribution and documentation
Familiarity with imaging system performance metrics such as PSF, MTF, wavefront error, and optical aberrations
Experience deploying simulation or modeling workloads on cloud or HPC platforms (AWS, GCP, or equivalent)
Ability to present technical findings and simulation results to cross-functional hardware and product teams
Familiarity with Zemax OpticStudio, CODE V, or similar tools; experience scripting or extending these platforms programmatically is a plus

Pay & Benefits — Cupertino, California, United States

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 $150,400 and $225,300, 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.

Application Deadline

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.

Apple

About the company

Apple

Large Enterprise

Apple Inc. is a global technology company known for its innovative products and services, including the iPhone, iPad, Mac computers, and Apple Watch. Founded in 1976, Apple has continuously pushed the boundaries of design and functionality, earning a reputation for high-quality consumer electronics and software solutions like iOS and macOS. With a strong commitment to user experience and privacy, Apple also leads in digital services, offering platforms such as the App Store, Apple Music, and iCloud. The company's focus on sustainability and corporate responsibility further enhances its standing as a leader in the technology sector.