Optical Engineer at Meta in Burlingame, California

Job Description:

We're seeking an experienced Optical Engineer to join our Reality Labs team, where you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of AR display and imaging systems. As a key member of our team, you'll explore innovative architectures and design spaces for AR optical systems, develop and analyze system components, and drive detailed system-level analysis.In this role, you will be part of a dynamic environment where you are will consistently switch between high-level thinking and meticulous attention to detail to mature our architectures and designs.

Optical Engineer Responsibilities:

• Explore architectures and design spaces for AR optical systems through design and prototyping using novel and conventional techniques and components


• Develop and analyze system and subsystem components that are specified to meet the needs of advanced AR products


• Perform detailed system level analysis such as optical modeling, tolerancing, and estimating size, weight, and power to predict system performance


• Work closely with external vendors and the internal mass production team, to drive mature optical systems towards productization


• Contribute to the process of design releases, prototyping and creation of RFQ, ERS documentation


• Collaborate with internal research teams for adoption of mature technologies

Minimum Qualifications:

• Masters degree or equivalent experience in the field of Optics, Optical Sciences, Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Sciences or a similar field


• 5+ years of experience in applied research and/or product development of optics or photonic systems


• 5+ years of experience with optical systems requiring any combination of the following: imaging, illumination, physical optics, stray light analysis, radiometry, photometry


• Experience maturing optical systems from proof-of-concept to early low volume prototypes or taking your own design into production


• Knowledge of optical design, modeling methods, and tools for imaging and illumination systems as well as tolerance analysis


• Experience working without direction and managing virtual teams to bring together an entire system from concept to pre-mass production maturity


• Experience delivering complex systems and bringing products from concept to mass production


• Experience working, communicating, and collaborating in a cross-functional environment


• Experience with Code V, Zemax, MATLAB, Python or C++ programming


• Experience with programming, software development and production

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD degree or equivalent experience in the field of Optical Sciences, Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a similar field


• Working knowledge of human visual systems and ophthalmic optics, and familiarity with ophthalmic lens standards


• 10+ years of experience in applied research and/or product development of optics or photonic systems


• 10+ years of experience with optical systems requiring any combination of the following: imaging, illumination, physical optics, stray light analysis, radiometry, photometry


• Knowledge of mass production of optical components and systems


• Experience with full design chain: first order layout, design, material selection, opto-mechanical interaction, tolerancing, thermal control, supplier selection, supplier management, test and manufacturing evaluation


• Experience in opto-mechanical design tools such as Ansys, Solidworks, NX


• Experience in non-sequential ray tracing tools such as FRED or LightTools

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.


$139,000/year to $200,000/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