Principal Optical Engineer

Job Description :

Job Title : Principal Optical Engineer

Location : Santa Monica, CA (On-site, 5 days / week)

Employment Type : Full-Time

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and creative Principal Optical Engineer to lead our Optics Department in developing next-generation augmented reality (AR) optical systems and future technologies.

In this role, you will own the design of cutting-edge optical architectures , including ultra-wide field-of-view systems , while also driving innovation in R&D projects . You will lead efforts in optical characterization, measurement development, manufacturing support, and customer integration , ensuring we remain at the forefront of AR optical technology.

This position requires both technical excellence and leadership skills , as you will oversee projects end-to-end from conceptual design through production and continuous improvement, while collaborating with internal teams, customers, and suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Optical Engineering Projects : Oversee the design and development of AR headsets and other advanced optical systems for future R&D initiatives
• R&D & Prototyping : Drive rapid prototyping efforts, developing proofs of concept and experimental designs
• Optical Characterization & Measurement : Design and implement precision measurement equipment to evaluate optical systems and support transition into manufacturing
• Optical Design for Manufacturing : Ensure seamless transfer of designs to manufacturing and oversee production quality control
• Customer Integration & Feedback : Support integration of optical systems into customer platforms and contribute to continuous improvement cycles
• Supplier Management : Collaborate with global suppliers to source, qualify, and integrate high-precision optical components
• AR Systems & Display Expertise : Apply expertise in AR display and backlight technologies to optimize and innovate optical solutions
• Creative Problem-Solving : Use innovative approaches to solve complex optical challenges and maintain our leadership in AR technology

What Were Looking For

10+ years of experience in optical design, with emphasis on AR / VR systems or other complex, constrained optical fields (e.g., reflective optical design for telescopes or defense systems)

Proven ability to lead optical engineering teams and projects from concept through production

Expertise in optical design software, prototyping, and measurement tools

Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and ability to collaborate with suppliers and production teams

Excellent problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and a track record of innovation in optical system design

Employee Benefits

Healthcare, Dental, and Vision (100% coverage for employees)

Paid time off : vacation, sick days, holidays, parental leave

Short- and Long-Term Disability coverage

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

401(k) Retirement Plan

Voluntary benefits : Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity

Required Skills :

Defense

Healthcare

Components

Continuous Improvement

Quality Control

Manufacturing

Integration

Suppliers

Software

Design

Engineering

Leadership

Communication

Management