Staff/Principal Optical Engineer, Waveguide Design

A new paradigm of computing

Magic Leap is a pioneer in spatial computing, developing groundbreaking augmented reality technology that seamlessly blends digital content with the real world. As the creator of the next computing platform, our mixed reality devices unlock new possibilities for how people interact with and experience their surroundings. 

Magic Leap could be your place if you want to be part of a united team where everyone is empowered and trusted to make an impact. At Magic Leap, you can explore innovative solutions and use your talents to solve real-world problems. Working alongside industry experts, you can grow your skills and amplify human potential at the intersection of the physical and digital worlds. We know that successful change and progress accelerate diverse perspectives. As we shape our future, everyone's voice matters. Together, we can reimagine the world of work and, with our bold partners, make the impossible possible.

The opportunity 

As a Principal Optical Engineer on the Waveguide Design Team, you will play a pivotal role in defining and driving the next generation of waveguide architectures for Augmented Reality (AR) displays. You will leverage deep technical expertise to lead efforts in waveguide design, simulation, and fabrication, while also serving as a technical mentor and thought leader within the organization.

The role can be fulfilled in a remote capacity or on-site in Austin, TX, Boulder, CO, or Plantation, FL.

An ideal candidate will be equally comfortable in both an optical design role and a software engineering role.

*We are interested in candidates with Staff to Principal level experience. Level will be determined by the interview process and overall fit to the requirements.*

What you’ll do 

• Lead the development, refinement, and validation of innovative waveguide designs, leveraging custom in-house software.
• Develop novel computational methods and tools to enhance modeling, simulation, and design workflows.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration, working closely with fabrication, materials research, metrology, and systems teams to ensure a seamless integration of waveguide designs into AR display systems.
• Identify and solve critical challenges in diffractive optics, polarization control, and nano-fabrication, pushing the boundaries of waveguide technology.
• Guide and influence strategic technical roadmaps, contributing to long-term innovation and product development.
• Present findings, technical insights, and recommendations to senior leadership and external stakeholders.

The experience you bring

• 8-10+ years of experience in waveguide optics, diffractive optics, or a closely related field, with a proven track record of delivering high-impact solutions in AR/VR, optical displays, or photonics.
• Expert knowledge of diffractive optics and polarization optics, with hands-on experience in both design and fabrication.
• Demonstrated leadership in complex optical system development, including mentoring junior engineers and driving technical initiatives.
• Extensive experience in Python for scientific computing, optical modeling, and tool development.
• Deep understanding of nano-patterning and replication techniques, including optical lithography, interference lithography, nano-imprint, and etching.
• Advanced proficiency in diffractive optics modeling tools such as S4, MEEP, Lumerical, COMSOL, or other electromagnetic simulation packages.
• Strong analytical problem-solving skills, with a focus on innovation and delivering practical solutions.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work across multidisciplinary teams and effectively convey complex technical concepts.

It’s exciting if you also have

• Experience with imaging optics and display optics.
• Hands-on experience in a nano fabrication cleanroom.
• Experience in optical metrology and measurement techniques.
• Background in materials research related to diffractive optics.
• Familiarity with color science and its application to display technology.
• Experience working on Augmented Reality / Mixed Reality display systems.
• Experience leading or contributing to software development projects in a collaborative team environment.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to Equal Employment Opportunities guidelines.

Accommodations

If you need an accommodation during the application, interviewing, or hiring process, you may request an accommodation by emailing ApplicantAccommodation@magicleap.com. Magic Leap will reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities to the extent required by applicable law.

Please note that we do not accept any application documents via (e-)mail. Furthermore, we do not accept applications from recruitment agencies for this role.

All legitimate Magic Leap email communications will end with "@magicleap.com". Please carefully review all emails you receive, to ensure you only engage with legitimate representatives of Magic Leap. For the protection of your Personal Information, do not click any links, open any attachments, or further engage with any suspicious communications. In the event you receive an unexpected or suspicious communication claiming to come from Magic Leap, please reach out directly to TalentAcquisition@magicleap.com for assistance.

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