Display Module Optical Engineer

Apple Inc.; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 194,880 - 324,800; Full time

Job summary

Apple Inc. seeks a Display Module Optical Engineer to lead module-level integration and optical design for future display systems in Sunnyvale, CA.

You will apply expertise in optics, metrology, and diffractive components while collaborating with cross-functional teams and suppliers to deliver manufacturable, mass‑production solutions. The role emphasizes independent problem solving, rigorous attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced innovation-driven environment, with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 10+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience in optical design and characterization, optical modeling, physical and geometrical optics, semiconductor optoelectronics, display technologies, sensor technologies, and statistical analysis.
• Experience leading engineering builds, planning test activities, and managing readiness of module deliverables across development phases.
• Experience with optical measurement systems for characterization, testing, and validation.
• Experience with tools for data acquisition and analysis (Python, LabVIEW), statistical analysis (JMP, MATLAB), and optical simulation (LightTools, FDTD, Zemax, Code V) is strongly desired.

Responsibilities

• Excellent project management, communications and multi‑functional leadership skills required.
• Work as a module lead to deliver module performance, drive requirement definition through design, validation, ramp, and mass production readiness. Drive system architecture discussions, define module‑level specifications, and ensure alignment with cross‑functional system requirements.
• Collaborating with system architecture teams to translate system‑level requirements into optical design targets and trade‑space analyses.
• Planning and driving engineering builds to meet program goals and deliver key milestones.
• Developing and implementing advanced performance metrics and corresponding specifications.
• Leading optical failure analysis and driving corrective actions and mitigations.
• Working with optical metrology teams to define measurement methodologies and data‑analysis workflows.
• Domestic and international travel up to 10%.

Skills

Optical design

Optical modeling

Physical optics

Geometrical optics

Semiconductor optoelectronics

Display technologies

Sensor technologies

Statistical analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering

Master's or PhD in Optical Engineering

Tools

LightTools

FDTD

Zemax

Code V

Job description

Apple is seeking a highly motivated Display Module Optical Engineer with a strong passion for next-generation display technologies. Explore optics and develop module-level integration processes for advanced optical components used in future display systems. You will tackle new technical challenges, help create solutions that do not yet exist, and influence the future of interactive and display technologies at Apple. You will apply your expertise in optics, optical metrology, diffractive optical components, and module integration while collaborating closely with world-class cross-functional teams and top global suppliers to deliver innovative, manufacturable, mass‑production solutions.

Description

This individual will serve as a key focal point for new display technology development, driving the implementation of emerging technology platforms into final products. In this role, you will contribute to system-level modeling to support design decisions and validation, working closely with a diverse, multi-disciplinary team. As a directly responsible individual, you will partner with cross-functional teams and suppliers to understand design tolerances and sensitivities, optimize system performance based on critical metrics, and validate system behavior through engineering builds and design of experiments. The ideal candidate is comfortable working with new technologies, demonstrates flexible and strategic problem‑solving, and maintains meticulous attention to detail. You should be highly independent, motivated to deliver results, and capable of tackling challenges beyond your immediate technical domain. Strong communication and presentation skills are essential, along with the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, agile, hands‑on, and innovation‑driven environment that values engineering excellence.

Responsibilities

• Excellent project management, communications and multi‑functional leadership skills required.
• Work as a module lead to deliver module performance, drive requirement definition through design, validation, ramp, and mass production readiness. Drive system architecture discussions, define module‑level specifications, and ensure alignment with cross‑functional system requirements.
• Collaborating with system architecture teams to translate system‑level requirements into optical design targets and trade‑space analyses.
• Planning and driving engineering builds to meet program goals and deliver key milestones.
• Developing and implementing advanced performance metrics and corresponding specifications.
• Leading optical failure analysis and driving corrective actions and mitigations.
• Working with optical metrology teams to define measurement methodologies and data‑analysis workflows.
• Domestic and international travel up to 10%.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelors Degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 10+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience in one or more of the following: optical design and characterization, optical modeling, physical and geometrical optics, semiconductor optoelectronics, display technologies, sensor technologies, and statistical analysis.
• Experience leading engineering builds, planning test activities, and managing readiness of module deliverables across development phases.
• Experience with optical measurement systems for characterization, testing, and validation.
• Experience with tools for data acquisition and analysis (Python, LabVIEW), statistical analysis (JMP, MATLAB), and optical simulation (LightTools, FDTD, Zemax, Code V) is strongly desired.

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative, define tasks, and execute work independently while contributing across multiple programs. Able to balance priorities and support peers with optical expertise.
• Experience with display optics is a strong plus.
• Strong creativity and analytical thinking in problem‑solving and root‑cause analysis. Experience linking optical performance issues to process‑driven root causes.
• Experience in module engineering, module integration, or high‑volume manufacturing processes. Direct mass‑production experience is highly beneficial.

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $184,700 and $324,800, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits.

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant.

At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.

Learn about accessibility in Apple’s workplace.

Learn about reasonable accommodations for job applicants.

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.