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Augmented Reality Developer Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Our Applications Engineering team designs augmented reality solutions for a wide variety of industrial applications. We have a highly creative and collaborative team and are growing rapidly. Job ...

Operations Engineer

Wixom, MI · On-site

$66K - $90K/yr

... projected augmented reality (AR) work instruction software platform that transforms manual ... As an Operations Engineer, the holder of this position is expected to work independently ...

LightGuide, Inc. is a leading projected augmented reality (AR) work instruction software platform ... Mechanical Engineering, Industrial / Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer ...

... projected augmented reality (AR) work instruction software platform that transforms manual ... Work with customers, operations, and engineering to beta test versions of LightGuide software.

RAE Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$113K - $149K/yr

Ford is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to lead development of core software infrastructure for next-generation Augmented Reality (AR) Head-Up Display (HUD) systems. This role focuses on low-level ...

RAE Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$115K - $192K/yr

Ford is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to lead development of core software infrastructure for next-generation Augmented Reality (AR) Head-Up Display (HUD) systems. This role focuses on low-level ...

Augmented Reality Developer information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$9

$49

$71

How much do augmented reality developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for augmented reality developer in Detroit, MI is $49.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.84 and $57.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an augmented reality developer?

An Augmented Reality (AR) Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing AR experiences using technologies like ARKit, ARCore, and Unity. They create interactive digital overlays that enhance the real-world environment for applications in gaming, education, retail, and more. AR Developers work with 3D modeling, computer vision, and programming languages like C# or JavaScript. Their role involves optimizing AR applications for performance, usability, and cross-platform compatibility.

What are some common challenges augmented reality developers face in their daily work?

Augmented Reality Developers often encounter challenges such as optimizing AR applications for various devices with different hardware capabilities, ensuring smooth real-time rendering, and addressing issues with user interaction and spatial tracking. Staying up to date with rapidly evolving AR technology and platforms, as well as debugging complex issues that can arise from integrating 3D assets and sensor data, is also common. Collaboration with designers, artists, and UX specialists is frequent, requiring effective communication to transform creative visions into technically feasible solutions. Overcoming these challenges is a key part of creating immersive and user-friendly AR experiences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an augmented reality developer?

To thrive as an Augmented Reality Developer, you need strong programming skills (C#, C++, or JavaScript), a solid grasp of 3D modeling concepts, and experience with AR platforms like ARKit, ARCore, or Unity3D, often supported by a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Proficiency in using development environments such as Unity or Unreal Engine and familiarity with mobile app deployment are essential, with certifications in AR development offering a competitive edge. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective collaboration are important soft skills for turning ideas into interactive AR experiences and working within multidisciplinary teams. These abilities are crucial for delivering engaging, functional AR applications that integrate seamlessly with both user needs and technological advancements.

Is augmented reality developer a good career?

Augmented Reality (AR) developers design and build AR applications using programming skills and tools like Unity or Unreal Engine. The field offers growth opportunities due to increasing adoption in industries such as gaming, healthcare, and retail, with competitive salaries and demand for specialized skills. Continuous learning and proficiency in 3D modeling, programming languages, and AR platforms are important for success in this career.

What does an augmented reality developer do?

An augmented reality developer designs and creates AR applications and experiences by integrating digital content with the real world using tools like Unity or Unreal Engine. They often work with 3D modeling, programming languages such as C# or C++, and AR SDKs to develop interactive, immersive environments for mobile devices, headsets, or other hardware.

What are the most commonly searched types of Augmented Reality Developer jobs in Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Augmented Reality Developer jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Augmented Reality Developer jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Augmented Reality Developer jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Augmented Reality Developer jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Augmented Reality Developer jobs in Detroit, MI are:

Infographic showing various Augmented Reality Developer job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 14% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,742 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Application Engineer

LightGuide, Inc.

Wixom, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

About LightGuide, Inc.
Looking for your next exciting career opportunity? LightGuide, Inc. offers competitive and diverse benefits with a supportive and values driven company culture. Join our team today!
Our Mission: LightGuide empowers people to build a brighter tomorrow.
Our Vision: We are creating a future in which frontline workers reach their maximum potential, enabled by augmented intelligence.
Our Values: Build Together, Build Smarter, Build with Urgency, Build for Sustainability, Build for All
LightGuide, Inc. is the leading projected augmented reality (AR) work instruction software platform that transforms manual manufacturing processes for companies worldwide. The projected step-by-step work instructions displayed directly on the "operating canvas" create an immersive, interactive work experience, optimizing the performance and efficiency of the human operator. LightGuide captures real-time operational metrics, enabling full digital traceability for complex manufacturing processes.
The software easily adapts to specific processes and interfaces with existing manufacturing equipment and enterprise information systems. The fully integrated approach dramatically improves the standardization, throughput, and error-proofing of manufacturing processes across a wide range of industries and use cases. Today, LightGuide, Inc. works with many leading companies in the automotive, aerospace & defense, electronics, diverse manufacturing and food and beverage industries.
Reports to
Applications Engineering Manager
Schedule Type
Full-time, Salary, Exempt, Hybrid
Job Summary
Work with an exceptional international team that develops, integrates, and sells augmented reality technology to world class companies across a wide variety of industries. Our Applications Engineering team designs augmented reality solutions for a wide variety of industrial applications. We have a highly creative and collaborative team and are growing rapidly.
Job Responsibilities
  • Work with the sales team, engineering team, and customers to design innovative augmented reality systems that drive value in industry.
  • Prepare scopes of work, bills of materials, and concept drawings detailing each system design.
  • Thoroughly understand the strengths and limitations of our software/technology to ensure solutions are effective and maintainable.
  • Research and specify hardware such as sensors, actuators, enclosures, projectors, computers, PLCs, robots, smart tools, cameras, cables, pneumatics, gauges, and networking equipment.
  • Research software packages for communication and interoperability, including MES/ERP/MRP/QMS/MOM/PLM/CAD, etc.
  • Understand and apply manufacturing best practices such as the Toyota Production System, 6 Sigma, lean manufacturing, human factors and ergonomics.
  • Design mechanical systems such as work benches, mounting plates, brackets, tooling, fixtures, linear rails, and mobile workstations.
  • Support the operations group with system assembly, installation, training, support, and documentation as needed.
  • Work closely with all personnel including OPS employees, customer's, and suppliers in a constructive and team-based manner.
  • Regularly visit customer facilities to gather information on potential applications and to assist with installation/support.
  • Continuously improve and optimize all processes related to the above work.
Other Responsibilities
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Required Competencies
  • Strong communications skills, promoting open and honest dialogues.
  • Strong commitment to continuous improvement of individuals and organizations.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong computer skills with PC hardware and Microsoft Windows.
  • Strong supervisory and leadership skills.
  • Consistent ability to work and sustain attention with distractions and/or interruptions.
  • Ability to interact appropriately with a variety of individuals including customers/clients. Ability to deal with people under adverse circumstances.
  • Ability to work as an integral part of a team.
Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering.
  • 2+ years experience with engineering design.
  • 2+ years experience in customer-facing technical roles.
  • 2+ years experience in manufacturing plants.
  • 2+ years experience leading technical teams.

Don't meet every single requirement? At LightGuide, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; stand; talk and hear; walk; sit, climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; and lift or move up to thirty-five (35) pounds. Employees are required to use a computer keyboard.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
Be able to work on a flexible schedule, when necessary, with potential to flex hours to accommodate customer requirements. Occasional requirement to work late or during a weekend to accommodate a customer schedule or time zone. Ability to pass a drug screen may be required when applicable.
Travel Requirements
  • 20-25% domestic and international travel required
DEI Statement
LightGuide, Inc. values, promotes, and celebrates Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) and encourages all women, men, minorities, those with a disability, veterans, and LGBTQ+ individuals to apply to our open positions.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
LightGuide, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, gender, color, religion, age, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.