Optical Characterization Lead Engineer, Camera Hardware

Job Title

Optical Characterization Lead Engineer, Camera Hardware

Role Summary

Join the Advanced Optics team in Herzliya to own optical measurements and metrology for micro- and nano-optic components used in Apple camera hardware. The role spans development of test concepts, prototyping, bench and fab deployment, and transferring measurement methods into production.

Experience Level

Senior-level - 5+ years of relevant industry experience.

Responsibilities

The role requires hands-on development and operation of optical test systems and cross-functional integration to move components from prototype to production.

• Develop optical test and metrology setups for metasurface and micro-optic components from concept through deployment.
• Operate, maintain, and build test stations, prototypes, fixtures, and measurement jigs.
• Measure and analyze component performance; correlate results to optical design, simulation, and product-level requirements.
• Define measurement methods, specifications, and acceptance criteria for engineering builds and production.
• Specify and qualify vendor test equipment and procedures; drive tool-to-tool and site-to-site correlation studies.
• Support component bring-up, tolerance and robustness studies, and failure analysis.
• Coordinate across design, process, product, and vendor teams to integrate components into products.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience, plus concise nice-to-have items.

• Must-have: Hands-on experience in optical metrology and characterization (examples: interferometry, wavefront sensing, MTF/imaging quality, spectrophotometry, ellipsometry/scatterometry, diffraction-efficiency, polarization, stray-light).
• Must-have: Proven ability to design and build optical test setups from the ground up (sources, detectors, cameras, spectrometers, opto-mechanics, precision alignment); strong prototyping and fixture-building skills.
• Must-have: Deep proficiency in lab automation and data analysis, including instrument control and scripting (Python preferred), statistical analysis, and measurement-system analysis (e.g., Gage R&R, correlation and tolerance studies).
• Must-have: Solid understanding of physical and wave optics relevant to micro- and nano-optics (diffraction, polarization, imaging).
• Must-have: Experience specifying and qualifying vendor test equipment and transferring measurement methods into high-volume manufacturing.
• Must-have: Self-directed, collaborative, and proficient in verbal and written English.
• Nice-to-have: Familiarity with metasurfaces, nano-photonics, and testing of semiconductor or MEMS components.

Education Requirements

Preferred: B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Physics, Electro-Optics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Ph.D. in a related field is listed as a preferred qualification (with industry experience). The posting also specifies 5+ years of relevant industry experience as a minimum.

About the Company

Company: Apple

Headquarters: Cupertino, California, United States

Apple is a multinational technology company that designs, manufactures, and sells consumer electronics, software, and online services. Known for its innovative products such as the iPhone, Mac computers, and iPad, Apple emphasizes a strong commitment to high-quality design and user experience.