Optical Engineer at Meta in Sunnyvale, California

Job Description:

Meta Reality Labs is at the forefront of developing the future of augmented reality (AR) products. As an Optical Engineer in the Optical Combiner Technology Development team, you will play a key role in designing, building, and testing optical systems and components that drive innovation in AR technology. You will be responsible for developing and analyzing system and subsystem components, as well as conducting hands-on lab work to validate and optimize optical systems for advanced AR applications. By working closely with cross-functional teams, you will help advance the state-of-the-art in optics and photonics, and contribute to the development of cutting-edge AR and Smart Glasses products.

Optical Engineer Responsibilities:

• Hands-on Optical Development: Design, build, and maintain benchtop instrumentation to characterize complex optical modules and integrated systems


• Experimental Validation: Build DOE plans, conduct extensive hands-on lab work to test and refine optical systems, ensuring they meet the specifications for advanced AR products


• System and Subsystem Analysis: Develop and analyze system and subsystem components to meet the needs of AR products. Conduct As-Fab-Simulation to close the Design-to-Fabrication gap


• Data Analysis and Interpretation: Handle and analyze large datasets using statistical methods and machine learning algorithms to extract insights and inform design decisions


• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams to integrate optical systems into larger AR and Smart Glasses products


• Innovation and Communication: Stay updated with the latest advancements in optics and photonics, and effectively communicate complex technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field or equivalent experience


• 2+ years of experience in optical design, simulation, or testing


• Knowledge of optical materials and their properties


• Familiar with common optical metrology tools like spectrometers, lens metrology tools, like IMHR and interferometers


• Demonstrated communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in the field of Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering or related degree


• Optical systems analysis and modeling experience, e.g. estimating SNR in optical systems or calculating light budgets for low photon detection systems


• Knowledge of optical materials suitable for optical cover windows and knowledge of various optical / durability coatings for world-exposed optical surfaces


• Familiarity with camera sensor architectures and camera calibrations


• Experience in debugging and failure analysis of optical systems including knowledge of typical failure analysis equipment


• Proficiency in data acquisition and image processing in JMP, MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW


• Experience with data analysis and visualization tools such as pandas, NumPy, Matplotlib, or Seaborn


• Experience with closed-loop analysis for waveguide production, including metrology, and feedback control systems


• Experience with optical fabrication techniques, such as lithography, etching, or polishing


• Experience working in a manufacturing environment with multiple projects and priorities

About Meta:

Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today-beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.



Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.

Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at accommodations-ext@fb.com.


$111,000/year to $164,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits


Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta. Apply Now