Optical Engineer
Role
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.
About the role
Work Authorization Requirement: Due to the nature of our business and compliance with federal regulations, all candidates must be a "U.S. Person". Upon hire, you will be required to provide documentation verifying your status as a U.S. Citizen, a lawful permanent resident, or a protected individual under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
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.
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.
Qualifications
- Must be a US Person (citizen or permanent resident).
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
- 3–5 years of professional experience in optics, display, or photonics.
- Demonstrated experience in near-eye display technologies (AR, VR, and MR) and optics.
- Knowledge of microdisplay-based systems (LCOS, OLED, microLED).
- Experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for data analysis and modeling.
Pay
$175,000-$250,000 USD + benefits
Schedule
N/A
Benefits
In addition to base salary, this role may be eligible for equity and other forms of compensation. Eligible employees also receive a competitive benefits package, including unlimited PTO.
Company Information
Rivet is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable law. Certain roles may require U.S. Person status, security clearance eligibility, or other requirements imposed by law or government contract.