AR/VR Design Validation Engineer

Summary

Apple is seeking an optical engineer with a passion for translating next-generation display technologies to reality. You will bridge design, testing, and manufacturing by validating that our optical simulation models accurately predict real-world performance.

Description

You will own the end-to-end optical models that validate measured module performance, continuously improving design iteration accuracy and enabling predictive performance capability. This role balances optical simulation pipeline development with hands-on responsibility for defining engineering builds, designing experiments, conducting failure mode analysis, and translating technical findings into actionable design guidance. You are expected to establish new validation methodologies and shape technical direction across the organization, requiring deep optical expertise paired with strong cross-functional leadership skills. The ideal candidate operates independently, maintains rigorous attention to detail, and drives results through excellent communication and presentation abilities.

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end design validation for next-generation optical display components
Own the development and validation of optical simulation capabilities and closing the simulation-measurement feedback loop using real build data
Define characterization pipelines, build plans, and data architecture to establish a rigorous design-to-performance validation, ensuring results are systematically captured and translated cross-functionally into actionable insights
Define critical performance metrics and develop specifications to guarantee component performance in high-volume manufacturing builds
Drive failure mode analysis and root-cause diagnosis across optical components to support build critical issues, ultimately translating the learnings into improved predictive simulation capability.
Analyze results, produce comprehensive reports, and communicate findings to diverse cross-functional teams spanning product design, manufacturing, and integration

Minimum Qualifications

BS in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field with 3+ years of relevant experience
Established track record of correlating optical simulations with measured hardware performance in industry or R&D settings
Proficiency with one or more optical simulation tools (LightTools, FDTD, RCWA, Zemax, Code V, etc)
Hands-on experience in at least one area: optical design/metrology, display technologies, optical sensors, thin-film processes, or nanofabrication

Preferred Qualifications

Masters or PhD in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
Experience with metasurfaces, diffractive optics, waveguide design, or consumer optical product development
Experience with engineering builds, managing cross-phase deliverables, high-volume manufacturing, or module integration experience
Self-driven with excellent project management, meticulous attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills
Working knowledge of optical measurement systems including light sources, microscopes, spectrometers, detectors, and free-space optics
Statistical data analysis capabilities using tools such as JMP, Matlab, Python, etc.

Pay & Benefits — San Francisco Bay Area, California, United States

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $150,400 and $225,300, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Application Deadline

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.