Optical Engineer

Rivet Industries • Palo Alto, CA

5d • $150,000 - $200,000

About The Position

We are seeking a motivated Optical Engineer to join our Augmented Reality (AR) hardware team and take a key role in the design, simulation, prototyping, and testing of advanced optical systems for near-eye displays and sensing. You will work closely with industrial designers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and perception teams to bring next-generation augmented reality products from concept to production.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Strong foundation in geometric optics, physical optics, display and imaging metrics.
• Proficiency with at least one optical design tool (e.g., Zemax, Code V, LightTools).
• Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to learn in a fast-paced start-up environment. Ability to manage projects independently.
• Ability to communicate clearly across disciplines and contribute to system-level trade studies.
• Must be a US Person (citizen or permanent resident).

Nice To Haves

• Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• 3–5 years of professional experience in optics, display, or photonics.
• Knowledge of microdisplay-based systems (LCOS, OLED, microLED).
• Demonstrated experience in near-eye display technologies (AR, VR, and MR) and optics
• Experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for data analysis and modeling.

Responsibilities

• Lead the optical design and analysis of near-eye display (NED) subsystems, including waveguides, projectors, lenses, illumination, and imaging optics.
• Develop and maintain optical models using tools such as Zemax, Code V, LightTools, or equivalent.
• Define optical performance requirements and flow them down to component and subsystem specifications.
• Drive laboratory setup, alignment, and characterization of optical prototypes.
• Document optical designs, test procedures, and experimental results.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and perception teams to integrate optical modules into systems.
• Interface with external suppliers on technology evaluation and component selection (microdisplays, waveguides, lenses, coatings, light sources).
• Contribute to design reviews and continuous improvement of optical architectures.

Benefits

• In addition to base salary, this role may be eligible for equity grants and other forms of compensation.
• Eligible employees also receive a competitive benefits package.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level