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Head Display Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Display Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$153K - $198K/yr

Meta Reality Labs is seeking a Display Engineer to advance the optical design and display systems that power next-generation virtual and augmented reality headsets and wearable devices. In this role ...

Display Optical Engineer Responsibilities: * Lead engineering activities on advanced VR/AR display as optical engineers for new display applications * Lead complex development projects by ...

Display Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$173K - $245K/yr

Meta Reality Labs is seeking a Display Engineer to advance the optical design and display systems that power next-generation virtual and augmented reality headsets and wearable devices. In this role ...

Display Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$151K - $196K/yr

Meta Reality Labs is seeking a Display Engineer to advance the optical design and display systems that power next-generation virtual and augmented reali.

Display Module Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$151K - $196K/yr

Apple is seeking a highly motivated Display Module Optical Engineer with a strong passion for next-generation display technologies. Explore optics and develop module-level integration processes for ...

Apple is seeking a highly motivated Display Module Optical Engineer with a strong passion for next-generation display technologies. Explore optics and develop module-level integration processes for ...

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Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

About the Role DigiLens is looking for an Optical Engineer to join our engineering team to support ... Experience with micro display technologies. * Familiar with Python, Matlab, Jump, or similar ...

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159K - $206K/yr

Apple's display technology team features a collaborative environment with creative and elite ... Description As an optical engineer focused on novel instrumentations, you will be responsible for ...

Optical Engineer

Bedford, NH · On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

The Optical Engineer will join a team focused on the development of new optical products and sub-components for imaging systems, sensor solutions, laser devices, and displays. Members of this group ...

Optical Engineer - Solon

Solon, OH · On-site

$119K - $155K/yr

Head of Optical Engineering COMPANY DESCRIPTION Folio Photonics is a dynamic startup company focused on developing a multi-terabyte multilayer fluorescent optical disc with a decades-long shelf life ...

Apple's display technology team features a collaborative environment with creative and elite ... Description As an optical engineer focused on novel instrumentations, you will be responsible for ...

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Select appropriate components including, sensors, displays, optical stabilization systems, and ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field * 10+ years of experience in ...

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Select appropriate components including, sensors, displays, optical stabilization systems, and ... Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field * 10+ years of experience in ...

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Head Display Optical Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do head display optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for head display optical engineer in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Head Display Optical Engineer do?

A Head Display Optical Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing the optical systems used in head-mounted displays, such as those found in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) devices. They work on components like lenses, waveguides, and light sources to ensure high image quality, minimal distortion, and user comfort. Their role often involves prototyping, testing, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to bring advanced display technologies from concept to production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Head Display Optical Engineer?

To thrive as a Head Display Optical Engineer, you need a strong background in optical engineering, physics, and display technologies, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience with optical system design. Proficiency with optical simulation tools like Zemax or LightTools, as well as familiarity with CAD software and prototyping equipment, is commonly required. Exceptional problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective cross-disciplinary communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential for developing innovative, high-performance display systems that meet rigorous industry standards and user needs.

What are some common challenges faced by a Head Display Optical Engineer when leading cross-functional teams in display technology projects?

A Head Display Optical Engineer often encounters challenges such as aligning the optical design requirements with electrical, mechanical, and software constraints. Coordinating between diverse teams—like hardware engineers, product designers, and manufacturing specialists—requires clear communication to ensure that optical performance goals are met without compromising on manufacturability or user experience. Additionally, staying ahead of rapid technological advancements and managing project timelines can be demanding. Successfully navigating these challenges calls for strong leadership, adaptability, and a collaborative mindset.

What is the difference between Head Display Optical Engineer vs Head Display Optical Engineer?

AspectHead Display Optical Engineer

Since the comparison is with the same job title, there is no difference between Head Display Optical Engineer and Head Display Optical Engineer. Both roles typically involve designing and developing optical systems for head-mounted displays, requiring similar skills, certifications, and work environments. They are used interchangeably in the industry, and professionals in this field often search for or compare these terms to understand job requirements or opportunities.

What are popular job titles related to Head Display Optical Engineer jobs?

For Head Display Optical Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Head Display Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Display Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

Socket.dev
Network Security • 1 - 10 employees

$153K - $198K/yr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Meta Reality Labs is seeking a Display Engineer to advance the optical design and display systems that power next-generation virtual and augmented reality headsets and wearable devices. In this role, you will define technical strategies, spearhead the development of advanced display optical designs, and optimize metrology systems for our next-generation products. You will collaborate closely with internal teams and external ecosystem partners to deliver high-quality, differentiated capabilities for our hardware platforms. You will shape the optical roadmap for immersive wearable products, collaborating with cross-functional teams, hardware engineering, and product development to deliver high-quality visual experiences at scale.

Responsibilities
  • Lead engineering activities on advanced VR/AR display as optical engineers for new display applications
  • Lead complex development projects by coordinating closely with diverse cross-functional teams and external partners to deliver state-of-the-art display technologies
  • Lead the all display optical performance validation and FACA based on target driving condition
  • Set up the optical simulation platform to combine display optical stack design and other optical components including ray optics for Meta product development
  • Design of Experiments (DOE) to internal teams and external partners
  • Work closely with the operations team in yield enhancement and process improvement
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical, Materials, and/or Optics Engineering, and/or equivalent practical experience
  • 8+ years of experience in optical design for consumer electronics, wearable devices, or near-eye display systems
  • Experience with optical simulation and design software such as Zemax OpticStudio, Code V, or equivalent ray-tracing tools
  • In-depth experience with optical device characterization and optimizations
  • Hands-on experience in optical device design, development, prototyping, and building optical instruments
  • Experience leading cross-functional optical development programs from concept through mass production, including defining specifications and managing design verification
  • Experience in communicating complex optical system trade-offs and design decisions to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
Preferred Qualifications
  • Failure analysis with uOLED products and process DOE has been performed
  • PH.D. in Electrical, Material, and/or Optics Engineering and/or equivalent practical experience
  • Willingness and ability for 30% travel to Asia to support manufacturing partners and supply chain operations
  • Thin film process in-depth knowledge for organic and inorganic layers handling
  • Track record of contributing to optical technology strategy and influencing multi-generation product roadmaps in a consumer hardware organization
  • Strong written and verbal communication
  • Expert knowledge in scientific programming, signal processing, and data analysis (machine learning experience is a plus)

$173,000/year to $245,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits

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