Research Acoustic Systems Engineer

**Summary:** Meta Reality Labs is seeking a Research Acoustic Systems Engineer to advance the science and engineering of audio systems for next-generation augmented and virtual reality devices, including wearables and smart glasses. In this role, you will define the acoustic architecture of future AR/VR products, driving research into spatial audio, microphone array design, loudspeaker systems, and acoustic signal processing. You will shape the long-term technical direction of audio hardware and algorithms, working at the intersection of acoustics research and consumer wearable product development to deliver transformative listening and communication experiences. **Required Skills:** Research Acoustic Systems Engineer Responsibilities: 1. Design, analyze, test, and validate acoustic systems for research hardware platforms 2. Develop models of loudspeakers, microphones, and audio systems to inform design decisions 3. Define objective audio performance targets and KPIs for research hardware 4. Lead factory test design and specification for prototype and research builds 5. Collaborate with mechanical engineers, software teams, and researchers to optimize acoustic trade-offs and evaluate audio algorithms 6. Develop automated measurement tools and workflows for acoustic characterization, and document simulation results and technical reports 7. Coordinate with key partners (Researchers, Mechanical Engineers, System Engineers, Leadership, Operations) to support new and ongoing projects 8. Manage project schedules, milestones, delivery, and relationships with prototyping vendors and contract manufacturing partners **Minimum Qualifications:** Minimum Qualifications: 9. 8+ years of industry experience in acoustic systems engineering, including transducer design, acoustic modeling, and system-level audio performance optimization 10. Experience designing and characterizing microphone arrays and loudspeaker systems for consumer electronics or wearable devices 11. Experience with acoustic simulation tools (e.g., FEM/BEM solvers such as COMSOL or similar) and measurement instrumentation for acoustic characterization 12. Experience leading technical strategy and driving cross-functional alignment on acoustic architecture decisions across hardware, software, and product teams 13. Experience defining objective and subjective audio evaluation methodologies **Preferred Qualifications:** Preferred Qualifications: 14. Experience publishing or presenting original research in acoustics, audio engineering, or a closely related field 15. Understanding of transducer design and digital signal processing 16. Experience with acoustic test equipment such as CLIO, Klippel, SoundCheck, Audio Precision, or similar 17. Experience in modeling complex multi-disciplinary systems 18. Familiarity with DSP fundamentals including digital filters, gain control, and dynamics processing 19. Familiarity with mechanical design principles, FEA, and advanced materials 20. Experience defining audio performance KPIs for hardware systems 21. Experience tuning real-time audio algorithms (e.g., EQ, dynamics processing, loudspeaker protection) 22. MS/PhD in Acoustics, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience 23. Experience developing automated measurement and tuning tools for audio system characterization and verification **Public Compensation:** $173,000/year to $245,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits **Industry:** Internet **Equal Opportunity:** Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment. Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at accommodations-ext@meta.com.