Meta
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Optical Process & Manufacturing Engineer - Lens Technical Lead

Meta
Redmond, WA
On-site
Full-time
$144k - $204k
3d ago

Apt Insight

In this role, you will lead the development and productization of precision optical components, including ophthalmic-grade optics, that serve as core technologies for next-generation AI and AR smart glasses at Reality Labs. You will act as the single point of accountability for critical optical hardware from early concept design and prototyping through validation and full high-volume mass production ramp.

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Responsibilities

Own the end-to-end development of precision optical components from initial concept through high-volume production ramping.
Partner with external vendors and supply-chain partners to optimize material selection, tooling design, metrology, and quality control.
Develop and qualify ophthalmic manufacturing processes alongside verification metrology for optical power, surface form, and wavefront.
Perform mold flow analysis and mold design to establish stable process windows and tool geometry for optical-grade parts.
Qualify high-precision lens cutting processes, including CNC machining, edging, and laser systems at scale.
Conduct design of experiments (DOE) and root cause analyses to troubleshoot optical and mechanical defects.
Integrate novel fabrication methods and materials, including lamination, optical surface generation, coating, and injection molding.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Optical Engineering, or a related technical field.
At least 6 years of experience in manufacturing and process development for precision optical components in ophthalmic or consumer electronics contexts.
Hands-on experience with optical metrology, surface form inspection, wavefront analysis, and mechanical characterization.
Demonstrated background in mold design, mold flow analysis, and optical-grade injection molding or casting in high-volume settings.
Proficiency with mold flow and fluid dynamics simulation software such as Autodesk Moldflow, Moldex3D, or CFD tools.
Nice to Have
Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, or Optical Engineering with deep expertise in the optical plastics lens industry.
Experience with sequential ray tracing and optical simulation tools like Zemax or Code V.
Familiarity with ophthalmic coating design, advanced lamination, and regulatory standards such as FDA, ANSI, or ISO.

Work Environment

This position is based on-site at Reality Labs facilities in Redmond, Washington or Sunnyvale, California.
Work takes place in advanced lab, prototype, and optical manufacturing testing environments.
You will operate on a standard 40-hour work week with regular cross-functional collaboration across multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
Domestic and international travel may be required to interface directly with manufacturing and supply-chain partners.

Benefits & Perks

Base salary ranges from $144,000 to $204,000 per year, tailored to experience and location.
Total compensation package includes performance-based bonuses, company equity grants, and comprehensive health insurance.
Substantial opportunities for technical leadership growth while building breakthrough hardware in the emerging AR/AI space.