Research Scientist, Optical Systems

Meta Reality Labs is seeking a Research Scientist, with experience in waveguide fabrication and process development, to advance optical systems research for next-generation augmented reality devices and advanced computing systems. In this role, you will work at the intersection of nanofabrication, materials science, and optical engineering — directly contributing to the hardware that will power Meta's AR glasses and displays. This is a fundamental research role driving a long-term research roadmap to establish the feasibility of breakthrough optical technologies for future product generations.
Research Scientist, Optical Systems Responsibilities
Develop and optimize techniques and processes for the fabrication of diffraction gratings and light guides on organic substrates
Perform nanostructure patterning using e-beam lithography, stepper lithography, and nanoimprint lithography techniques
Develop and characterize dry etch and wet etch processes for precision waveguide fabrication
Deposit dielectric thin films using sputtering, atomic layer deposition (ALD), and e-beam evaporation techniques
Perform metrology and characterization using AFM, SEM, optical profilometry, and spectroscopic methods
Collaborate with optical designers, materials scientists, and integration teams to translate design requirements into manufacturing processes
Document, develop standard operating procedures, and contribute to IP generation
Identify and troubleshoot yield-limiting defects and process excursions
Support technology transfer from R&D to pilot-scale and high-volume manufacturing

Minimum Qualifications:

PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related field
Hands-on experience with nanofabrication techniques, including E-beam lithography, optical steppers, and dry/plasma etching
Experience with thin-film deposition methods (sputtering, ALD, or e-beam evaporation)
Proficiency with metrology tools such as AFM, SEM, and optical characterization systems
Demonstrated experience in developing and optimizing fabrication processes from development through qualification

Preferred Qualifications:

2+ years of relevant industry experience, or Master's degree with 5+ years of relevant industry experience
Fundamental understanding of light-matter interaction, photonic nanostructures, and device physics
Knowledge of optical thin-film design and coating characterization
Experience scaling processes from R&D prototyping to pilot production
Background in AR/VR optics, holographic optical elements, surface-relief gratings, or photonic devices
Familiarity with organic/polymer substrates and their processing challenges (thermal budget, CTE mismatch, surface energy). Experience with nanoimprint lithography (NIL) or roll-to-roll patterning
Experience fabricating diffractive optical elements, waveguides, or photonic structures

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: $122,000/year to $181,000/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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