Optical Engineer – Augmented Reality; AR

Optical Engineer – Augmented Reality (AR)

Location
:
Salt Lake City, UT
Team
:
Hardware / Optics / AR
Experience Level
:
Mid–Senior

Coda Octopus Engineering Inc., a division of Coda Octopus Group, is a certified small business in search of an Optical Engineer (OE) to design, prototype, and optimize optical systems for next-generation Augmented Reality (AR) devices. In this role, the OE will develop and evaluate optical architectures that deliver high-quality visual experiences within compact wearable systems. This role will collaborate closely with hardware, display, mechanical, and perception teams to translate advanced optical concepts into manufacturable AR products.

• Design and develop AR optical systems, including wave guides, combiners, freeform optics, projection optics, and illumination paths.
• Perform optical simulations using tools such as Zemax, Code V, or Light Tools.
• Optimize image quality metrics including MTF, distortion, eyebox, field of view, brightness, and efficiency.
• Work with microdisplays (LCOS, OLED, Micro
  
  LED) and evaluate their integration into AR optical architectures.
• Build and test optical prototypes to validate performance and identify design improvements.
• Define optical tolerances and collaborate with mechanical engineering on packaging constraints.
• Develop optical test setups and measurement procedures.
• Work with manufacturing partners to transition optical designs into production.
• Troubleshoot system-level optical issues in integrated AR hardware.

• MS or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, Applied Optics, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience designing imaging or display optics.
• Strong experience with optical design and simulation software (Zemax, Code V, or equivalent).
• Knowledge of geometrical optics, physical optics, polarization, and stray light analysis.
• Experience with optical lab equipment (interferometers, spectrometers, beam profilers, etc.).
• Ability to prototype and test optical systems.

• Experience with AR/VR optical architectures (wave guides, holographic optics, pancake lenses, birdbath optics, freeform optics).
• Familiarity with diffractive optics, metasurfaces, or holographic optical elements.
• Experience working with near-eye displays (NED).
• Knowledge of human vision and display perception.
• Experience transitioning optics from prototype to manufacturing.

• Deliver optical designs that balance performance, size, efficiency, and manufacturability.
• Enable immersive AR visual quality with wide field of view, large eyebox, and minimal artifacts.
• Collaborate across teams to ship integrated AR hardware systems.