Trident Consulting

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Trident Consulting is seeking a "Augmented Reality Principal Optical Design Engineer" for one of our client in “San Jose, CA”. A global leader in business and technology services. Job Description Job Title: Augmented Reality Principal Optical Design Engineer Location: San Jose, CA (Local candidates preferred; Remote allowed) Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Hours: 40 hours/week Duration: 10+ Months Pay Rate: $70 – $125/hr. (based on experience; do not submit candidates at maximum) Category: Research & Development | Scientific Role Overview EMD Electronics is expanding its presence in AI-enabled SmartGlasses and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies. The Principal Optical Design Engineer will focus on the design, modeling, and optimization of waveguide systems—specifically Polarization Volume Hologram (PVH) waveguides—that define next-generation AR device performance. This role will collaborate across optical modeling, materials, metrology, and device integration teams to enhance waveguide KPIs, analyze material impacts, and validate optical system performance. Key Responsibilities • Design and develop PVH waveguides, understanding waveguide KPIs, architecture trade-offs, and device constraints. • Develop and refine optical designs to improve AR device performance and user experience. • Evaluate the impact of materials, process modifications, and structural adjustments on waveguide efficiency and quality. • Lead a closed-loop data analysis workflow to align optical models with experimental or measured data. • Collaborate with computational teams to improve internal optical modeling tools and simulation frameworks. • Work with metrology and integration teams to analyze core AR performance fundamentals and system-level behavior. Minimum Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. • 4+ years of industry experience in AR optics, waveguides, diffractive optics, or related optical design areas. • Strong understanding of diffractive waveguide technologies. Preferred Qualifications • Proficiency in optical modeling techniques and tools: • Simulation methods: RCWA, FDTD, ray tracing • Software: VirtualLab, Zemax, LightTools, Code V, Lumerical • Programming: Python, MATLAB, or custom modeling environments • Solid knowledge of: • AR device architectures and optical KPI dependencies • Optical characterization techniques • Color and perceptual science (e.g., luminance, uniformity, artifacts) • Liquid crystal–based optical elements • Strong written and verbal communication skills • Innovative, research-oriented mindset and interest in pushing AR device modeling capabilities What the Role Offers • Opportunity to work with cutting-edge AR and SmartGlasses technologies • Collaboration with expert cross-functional optics teams • Competitive compensation • Ability to influence and shape next-generation AR display performance About Trident: Trident Consulting is a premier IT staffing firm providing high-impact workforce solutions to Fortune 500 and mid-market clients. Since 2005, we've specialized in sourcing elite technology and engineering talent for contract, direct hire, and managed services roles. Our expertise spans cloud, AI/ML, cybersecurity, and data analytics, supported by a 3M+ candidate database and a 78% fill ratio. With a highly engaged leadership team and a reputation for delivering hard-to-fill, niche talent, we help organizations build agile, high-performing teams that drive innovation and business success. Some of our recent awards include: Trailblazer Women Award 2025 by Consulate General of India in San Francisco Ranked as the #1 Women Owned Business Enterprise in the large category by ITServe. Received the TechServe Excellence award. Consistently ranked in the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America Recognized in the SF Business Times as one of the Largest Bay Area BIPOC/Minority-Owned Businesses in 2022.