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Virtual Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Google

Senior Optical Engineer, XR

San Jose, CA · On-site

$122.50K - $168.20K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, or a specialized field ... Experience with AR, virtual reality (VR), or heads-up display (HUD) optics. * Experience managing ...

TensorWave

Senior Network Optical Engineer

Las Vegas, NV · Remote

$106.50K - $145.90K/yr

About the Role We're looking for a Senior Network Optical Engineer to join our team during an ... Various Supplementary Health Benefits, such as discounted Virtual Healthcare Appointments and ...

Comcast

Optical Transport Operations Engineer 2

Englewood, CO · On-site

$127.40K - $164.90K/yr

If a position is listed with both office locations and virtual offerings, Comcast may be willing to ... Associates/bachelor's in electrical engineering, Software Engineering, Optical Engineering ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$132.96K - $226.04K/yr

... Engineering Hiring Event. While we encourage all interested professionals to apply, please note ... For candidates not local to the southern NH area, virtual interviews will be accommodated. BAE ...

BAE Systems USA

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX

$127.80K - $165.50K/yr

... Engineering Hiring Event. While we encourage all interested professionals to apply, please note ... For candidates not local to the southern NH area, virtual interviews will be accommodated. BAE ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Merrimack, NH · On-site

$132.96K - $226.04K/yr

... Engineering Hiring Event. While we encourage all interested professionals to apply, please note ... For candidates not local to the southern NH area, virtual interviews will be accommodated. BAE ...

Meta

Optical Architect - AI Accelerators

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$173K - $245K/yr

Optical Engineers at Meta will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of wearable systems ... Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual ...

Meta

Optical Architect - AI Accelerators

Redmond, WA

$173K/yr

Optical Engineers at Meta will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of wearable systems ... Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual ...

EOTECH

Opto Mechanical Engineer II

Orofino, ID · On-site

Test and analyze electro-optical and mechanical systems to ensure adherence to performance ... Comfortable working in an office or remote setting, with strong communication skills for virtual ...

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Virtual Optical Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do virtual optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Virtual Optical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Virtual Optical Engineer, you need a strong background in optics, photonics, and physics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Proficiency in simulation tools such as Zemax, LightTools, or CODE V, and familiarity with CAD software are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are vital soft skills for collaborating on complex projects. These abilities enable the design and optimization of advanced optical systems in virtual environments, ensuring innovation and precision in product development.

What are some common challenges faced by Virtual Optical Engineers when collaborating with remote teams?

Virtual Optical Engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams located in different regions, which can introduce challenges such as coordinating across time zones and ensuring clear communication about technical specifications. Working remotely requires strong documentation skills and the ability to use simulation and collaboration tools effectively to share design files, test results, and feedback in real time. Proactive communication and regular virtual meetings help to bridge gaps, but it's important to be adaptable to diverse working styles and maintain detailed records to ensure everyone stays aligned on project goals.

What is a Virtual Optical Engineer?

A Virtual Optical Engineer is a professional who designs, simulates, and analyzes optical systems—such as lenses, lasers, or fiber optics—using computer-aided design (CAD) and simulation software, often working remotely. They collaborate with teams to develop and optimize optical components for industries like telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics. Their work may involve using specialized tools to model light propagation, assess system performance, and troubleshoot design issues before physical prototypes are built.

What is the difference between Virtual Optical Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectVirtual Optical EngineerOptical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optics, physics, or engineering; certifications like Optics CertificationBachelor's or higher in optics, physics, or engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentRemote or virtual settings, collaborating with teams onlineOn-site labs, manufacturing facilities, or office environments
Industry UsageTechnology companies, research firms, remote consultingManufacturing, R&D labs, aerospace, telecommunications
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for remote optical engineering roles or virtual positionsSeeking traditional, on-site optical engineering jobs

While both Virtual Optical Engineers and Optical Engineers require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, Virtual Optical Engineers primarily work remotely, collaborating online, whereas Optical Engineers often work on-site in labs or manufacturing settings. The choice depends on your preferred work environment and industry focus.

More about Virtual Optical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Virtual Optical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Virtual Optical Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Virtual Optical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Virtual Optical Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Virtual Optical Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Virtual Optical Engineer jobs are:
Virtual Optical Engineer jobs near you

Senior Optical Engineer, XR

Google

San Jose, CA • On-site

$122.50K - $168.20K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Google rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 92 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 185 rated software companies

Job description

Minimum qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, or a specialized field (e.g., Optics, Sensors, Audio/DSP, etc.), or equivalent practical experience.
  • 4 years of experience working in the AR/VR optical system, waveguide display system, or optical semiconductor manufacturing field for waveguide.
  • Experience in optical design and simulation.

Preferred qualifications:
  • Experience with AR, virtual reality (VR), or heads-up display (HUD) optics.
  • Experience managing the complete optical design lifecycle from design, optimization, analysis, tolerances, fabrication, and metrology.
  • Familiarity with LightTools, Zemax or equivalent.
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach.
  • Communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

About the job
As a Senior Optical Engineer with experience in optics and display hardware development, you will lead the development and manufacturing of cutting-edge optical systems. You will be instrumental in bridging the gap between optical design and high-volume production, ensuring the successful realization of next-gen augmented reality eyewear displays. For decades, the computing revolution has reshaped our world driven by
breakthroughs in compute, connectivity, mobile, and now, AI. Google's XR
team is at the forefront of the next major leap - the convergence of AI and XR. This is more than just new devices - it's about reimagining how we interact with the world around us. We're building a future where
lightweight XR devices like smart glasses and headsets pair with helpful AI to augment human intelligence, offering personalized, conversational, and contextually aware experiences.
The US base salary range for this full-time position is $159,000-$231,000 bonus equity benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.
Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Learn more about benefits at Google .
Responsibilities
  • Design and simulate the next generation waveguide display systems.
  • Collaborate with optical system, and manufacturing teams to ensure design for manufacturability (DFM) and process integration.
  • Design and execute experiments (DOE) to characterize process parameters, identify critical process controls, and optimize manufacturing performance.
  • Utilize statistical process control (SPC) and data analysis techniques to monitor process stability, identify deviations, and drive continuous improvement.
  • Conduct root cause analysis for process issues, yield loss, and quality defects, and implement effective corrective and preventive actions.

Information collected and processed as part of your Google Careers profile, and any job applications you choose to submit is subject to Google's Applicant and Candidate Privacy Policy .
Google is proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We are committed to building a workforce that is representative of the users we serve, creating a culture of belonging, and providing an equal employment opportunity regardless of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding), expecting or parents-to-be, criminal histories consistent with legal requirements, or any other basis protected by law. See also Google's EEO Policy , Know your rights: workplace discrimination is illegal , Belonging at Google , and How we hire .
If you have a need that requires accommodation, please let us know by completing our Accommodations for Applicants form .
Google is a global company and, in order to facilitate efficient collaboration and communication globally, English proficiency is a requirement for all roles unless stated otherwise in the job posting.
To all recruitment agencies: Google does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Google employees, or any other organization location. Google is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

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