Principal Optical Engineer

Red 6 • Santa Monica, CA

29d

About The Position

Red 6 is seeking a highly skilled and creative Principal Optical Engineer to lead the Optics Department in developing innovative optical systems for augmented reality (AR) headsets and future technologies. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing cutting-edge optical architectures, including ultra-wide field-of-view systems, as well as pioneering new solutions for upcoming R&D projects. The role involves developing optical characterization and measurement equipment, following the manufacturing process through to the end, and assisting with customer integration and the continuous improvement feedback cycle.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in optical design, particularly in augmented reality systems or similar fields.
• Expertise in Code V, Zemax, and experience in optical metrology and hands-on optical R&D.
• Experience in Solidworks software and designing for manufacturability.
• Demonstrated ability to manage and lead complex projects from concept through to customer integration.
• Must possess a high degree of creativity and problem-solving capability for optical design challenges.
• Qualified candidates must have the ability to obtain a security clearance. This requires U.S. Citizenship

Nice To Haves

• Experience in the design and development of AR system optics, including hardware integration.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes and quality control in optical system production.
• Proven ability to rapidly prototype and iterate optical designs in an R&D setting.
• Experience with display and backlight technologies in augmented reality or related optical systems.
• Proficient in programming languages such as Python, C++, with a focus on optical development.

Responsibilities

• Lead Optical Engineering Projects
• R&D and Proof of Concept Development
• Optical Characterization & Measurement Development
• Optical Design for Manufacturing
• Customer Integration & Continuous Improvement
• Supplier Management
• AR Systems & Display Technologies Expertise
• Creative Problem-Solving

Benefits

• Healthcare, Dental, and Vision (100% coverage for Employees)
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick, paid holidays, and parental leave
• Short and Long-Term Disability
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Voluntary Worksite Benefits (Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal
• Number of Employees: 51-100 employees