Research Acoustic Systems Engineer

Meta Reality Labs is seeking a Research Acoustic Systems Engineer to advance the science and engineering of audio systems for next-generation augmented and virtual reality devices, including wearables and smart glasses. In this role, you will define the acoustic architecture of future AR/VR products, driving research into spatial audio, microphone array design, loudspeaker systems, and acoustic signal processing. You will shape the long-term technical direction of audio hardware and algorithms, working at the intersection of acoustics research and consumer wearable product development to deliver transformative listening and communication experiences.

Research Acoustic Systems Engineer Responsibilities:

Design, analyze, test, and validate acoustic systems for research hardware platforms
Develop models of loudspeakers, microphones, and audio systems to inform design decisions
Define objective audio performance targets and KPIs for research hardware
Lead factory test design and specification for prototype and research builds
Collaborate with mechanical engineers, software teams, and researchers to optimize acoustic trade-offs and evaluate audio algorithms
Develop automated measurement tools and workflows for acoustic characterization, and document simulation results and technical reports
Coordinate with key partners (Researchers, Mechanical Engineers, System Engineers, Leadership, Operations) to support new and ongoing projects
Manage project schedules, milestones, delivery, and relationships with prototyping vendors and contract manufacturing partners

Minimum Qualifications:

8+ years of experience in acoustic systems engineering, including transducer design, acoustic modeling, and system-level audio performance optimization
Experience designing and characterizing microphone arrays and loudspeaker systems for consumer electronics or wearable devices
Experience with acoustic simulation tools (e.g., FEM/BEM solvers such as COMSOL or similar) and measurement instrumentation for acoustic characterization
Experience leading technical strategy and driving cross-functional alignment on acoustic architecture decisions across hardware, software, and product teams
Experience defining objective and subjective audio evaluation methodologies
Bachelor's degree in Acoustics, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience developing automated measurement and tuning tools for audio system characterization and verification
Experience publishing or presenting original research in acoustics, audio engineering, or a closely related field
Experience in modeling complex multi-disciplinary systems
Experience tuning real-time audio algorithms (e.g., EQ, dynamics processing, loudspeaker protection)
Experience defining audio performance KPIs for hardware systems
Familiarity with mechanical design principles, FEA, and advanced materials
MS/PhD in Acoustics, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience
Experience with acoustic test equipment such as CLIO, Klippel, Sound Check, Audio Precision, or similar
Familiarity with DSP fundamentals including digital filters, gain control, and dynamics processing
Understanding of transducer design and digital signal processing

About Meta

Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and Whats App further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
For those who live in or expect to work from California if hired for this position, please click here for additional information.
United States of America: $173,000/year to $245,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits
Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. You may view our Equal Employment Opportunity notice here.
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