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Meta Platforms · Redmond, WA +1 more

# Research Scientist, Optical Systems

Redmond, WA +1 more Research & Science 

Listed on Meta Platforms’s official careers site. Listed as of October 18, 2026. Check that it is still open and apply there.
[Apply on Meta Platforms’s careers site →](https://www.metacareers.com/jobs/1569760278118088/)

[OpenNash Jobs](https://jobs.opennash.com/) / [Meta Platforms](https://jobs.opennash.com/companies/meta-platforms/) / Research Scientist, Optical Systems

## Job description

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.

## 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

## 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
- 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

## At a glance
- Posted by the employer: Not stated
- First seen by OpenNash: Jul 17, 2026
- Last checked: Oct 18, 2026
- Listed for: 93 days
- Location: Redmond, WA +1 more[Apply on Meta Platforms’s careers site →](https://www.metacareers.com/jobs/1569760278118088/)

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