AR/VR Design Validation Engineer

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.

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.

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

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.