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Transparent Search Group

Principal Optical Engineer

Transparent Search Group, Santa Monica, California, United States, 90403

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About the job Principal Optical Engineer

Job Title:

Principal Optical Engineer

Location:

Santa Monica, CA (On-site, 5 days/week) Employment Type:

Full-Time

About the Role

We are seeking a

highly skilled and creative Principal Optical Engineer

to lead our Optics Department in developing next-generation

augmented reality (AR) optical systems

and future technologies.

In this role, you will own the design of

cutting-edge optical architectures , including

ultra-wide field-of-view systems , while also driving innovation in

R&D projects . You will lead efforts in

optical characterization, measurement development, manufacturing support, and customer integration , ensuring we remain at the forefront of AR optical technology.

This position requires both

technical excellence and leadership skills , as you will oversee projects end-to-end from

conceptual design through production and continuous improvement,

while collaborating with internal teams, customers, and suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Optical Engineering Projects:

Oversee the design and development of AR headsets and other advanced optical systems for future R&D initiatives R&D & Prototyping:

Drive rapid prototyping efforts, developing proofs of concept and experimental designs Optical Characterization & Measurement:

Design and implement precision measurement equipment to evaluate optical systems and support transition into manufacturing Optical Design for Manufacturing:

Ensure seamless transfer of designs to manufacturing and oversee production quality control Customer Integration & Feedback:

Support integration of optical systems into customer platforms and contribute to continuous improvement cycles Supplier Management:

Collaborate with global suppliers to source, qualify, and integrate high-precision optical components AR Systems & Display Expertise:

Apply expertise in AR display and backlight technologies to optimize and innovate optical solutions Creative Problem-Solving:

Use innovative approaches to solve complex optical challenges and maintain our leadership in AR technology What Were Looking For

10+ years of experience

in optical design, with emphasis on

AR/VR systems

or other complex, constrained optical fields (e.g., reflective optical design for telescopes or defense systems) Proven ability to

lead optical engineering teams and projects

from concept through production Expertise in

optical design software, prototyping, and measurement tools Strong understanding of

manufacturing processes

and ability to collaborate with suppliers and production teams Excellent problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and a track record of

innovation in optical system design Employee Benefits

Healthcare, Dental, and Vision

(100% coverage for employees) Paid time off:

vacation, sick days, holidays, parental leave Short- and Long-Term Disability

coverage Flexible Spending Account (FSA) 401(k) Retirement Plan Voluntary benefits: Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity