Spring 2026 Zemax Optics Intern

General Information

Job Title Spring 2026 Zemax Optics Intern Job ID 12789 Country Canada City Canada Off-Site Date Posted 01-Oct-2025 Job Category Ansys NA Job Subcategory Ansys NA Hire Type Intern Remote Eligible Yes

Descriptions & Requirements

Job Description and Requirements

Ansys offers a complete portfolio of tools for optics simulation, including industry-leading optical design software Zemax OpticStudio and photonic simulation software Lumerical. As an intern, you will work in a highly collaborative and dynamic team environment, helping the Ansys Optics Team develop next-generation simulation software while gaining real-world experience in your field of study. This internship will focus on the intersection of optical design,  machine learning, and optimization.  This full-time position at the Ansys Waterloo office starts in January 2026 and concludes in April 2026. This internship is a full remote internship with an optional flex opportunity in Waterloo, ON.  

Responsibilities

• Create and test numerical models to both improve existing software functionality and add new software capabilities.
• Develop and apply machine learning models to analyze and predict optical phenomena based on datasets from simulations.
• Collaborate with team members to integrate machine learning techniques with traditional computational physics methods (e.g., Monte Carlo simulations, geometric ray tracing etc.).
• Analyze software functionality using Zemax OpticStudio Application Programming Interface (ZOS-API) using C++/C#, Python, or MATLAB.
• Identify improvements to the functionality and performance of Zemax OpticStudio through active use of the software application.
• Works under the general supervision of a development lead or manager.

Minimum Qualifications

• Pursuing a Masters or PhD in Electrical Engineering,  Materials Science, Physics, or a related field, with a focus on optics and machine learning. 
• Passion for optics and optical design research and development.
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Programming experience with C++, Python, or similar programming languages.
• Familiarity with machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or jax.
• Experience using Zemax OpticStudio or similar optical design software.
• Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

• Synopsys Canada ULC values the diversity of our workforce. We are committed to provide access & opportunity to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodation to individuals throughout the recruitment and employment process. Should you require an accommodation, please contact hr-help-canada@synopsys.com.