Industrial Placement (Optics & Machine Learning)

Synopsys, Inc.; Remote; CAD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading design solutions company seeks interns for an exciting opportunity as an Optics and Machine Learning Intern. This role involves creating numerical models for optical simulations and developing machine learning models. Ideal candidates are pursuing a Masters or PhD in Electrical Engineering or Physics, demonstrate a passion for optics, and possess strong programming skills in Python. Enjoy a fully remote work environment with a full-time commitment from May to August 2026. Hourly compensation ranges from $38.00 to $43.00 CAD.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Masters or PhD with optics focus.
• Experience with Python or similar programming languages.
• Familiarity with machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow.

Responsibilities

• Create and test numerical models for optics simulation.
• Develop machine learning models for optical phenomena prediction.
• Collaborate to integrate ML techniques with computational physics methods.

Skills

Programming experience with Python

Excellent problem-solving skills

Passion for optics

Familiarity with TensorFlow

Excellent communication skills

Education

Currently pursuing a Masters or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field

Tools

Zemax OpticStudio

Python

Job description

Introduction

We drive technology innovations that shape the way we live and connect. Catalyzing the era of pervasive intelligence, we deliver design solutions, from electronic design automation to silicon IP, to system design and Multiphysics simulation and analysis. We partner closely with our customers across a wide range of industries to maximize their R&D capability and productivity, powering innovation today that ignites the ingenuity of tomorrow

Internship Experience

At Synopsys, interns dive into real-world projects, gaining hands-on experience while collaborating with our passionate teams worldwide—and having fun in the process! You'll have the freedom to share your ideas, unleash your creativity, and explore your interests. This is your opportunity to bring your solutions to life and work with cutting-edge technology that shapes not only the future of innovation but also your own career path. Join us and start shaping your future today!

Mission Statement

Our mission is to fuel today’s innovations and spark tomorrow’s creativity. Together, we embrace a growth mindset, empower one another, and collaborate to achieve our shared goals. Every day, we live by our values of Integrity, Excellence, Leadership, and Passion, fostering an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive—both at work and beyond.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Create and test numerical models to improve existing software functionality and add new capabilities in optics simulation.
• 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).
• Analyze and enhance software functionality using Zemax OpticStudio Application Programming Interface (ZOS-API) and Python.
• Identify improvements to Zemax OpticStudio's performance and capabilities through active use and testing.
• Work under the general supervision of a development lead or manager, contributing to a dynamic and collaborative team environment.

What You’ll Need

• Currently pursuing a Masters or PhD in Electrical Engineering, 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 Python or similar programming languages.
• Familiarity with machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or JAX.
• Knowledge of machine learning techniques including deep learning, hyperparameter tuning, and differentiable programming.
• Experience using Zemax OpticStudio or similar optical design software.
• Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

• Technical knowledge and experience with optical engineering, including modeling, design, fabrication, testing, or building of optical systems.
• Experience in optical system design and analysis using commercial ray tracing software.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate both project overviews and in-depth technical details.

Key Program Facts

• Program Length: 4 months (May 2026 – August 2026)
• Location: Fully Remote
• Working Model: 100% remote
• Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-Time
• Start Date: May 2026
• Salary Information: The base salary range across Canada for this role is between $38.00-$43.00 CAD per hour. The actual compensation offered will be based on a number of job-related factors, including location, skills, experience, and education. Your recruiter can share more specific details upon request.