NPI Engineer

Location: Abingdon, United States

Department: Spectacles

Employment Type: Full time

About Snap Inc

Snap Inc is a technology company. We believe the camera presents the greatest opportunity to improve the way people live and communicate. Snap contributes to human progress by empowering people to express themselves, live in the moment, learn about the world, and have fun together.

About the Role

Snap Inc is a camera company that believes AR innovation transforms how people live, connect, and create in the real world. Our Spectacles team is pioneering fifth-generation standalone AR glasses powered by Snap OS, blending cutting-edge optics with playful, immersive experiences. We're seeking a talented NPI Engineer to join our Optical Engine Delivery Team, where you'll drive the prototyping, characterization, and high-volume manufacturing of AR display platforms that power Spectacles. In this role, you'll bridge design and production, ensuring our optical engines deliver pixel-perfect performance for AR experiences that spark creativity and bring people closer together. As an NPI Engineer, you'll transfer opto-mechanical designs to contract manufacturers, analyze supplier data for dimensional accuracy, and lead failure analysis using advanced metrology like CMM and CT scanning. You'll run DOEs to optimize yields, support rapid prototyping, and collaborate with global partners to scale production of precision components for our see-through AR glasses. Your work will directly impact Snap's mission to redefine communication through camera-first AR hardware, fostering a culture of bold experimentation and fun innovation. Join a dynamic team in our 'default together' environment, working 4+ days a week in-office to fuel creative collaboration. At Snap, we champion diverse voices to build products that empower self-expression and real-world connection. If you're passionate about mechanical engineering in AR and camera tech, apply to help shape the future of Spectacles. Snap is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusive hiring practices.

What You'll Do

• Collaborate with third-party contract manufacturers to transfer opto-mechanical designs and processes for AR display platforms
• Analyze incoming component and sub-assembly data from suppliers to assess performance and identify issues
• Provide expertise in dimensional metrology and failure analysis for optical engine components
• Conduct Design of Experiments (DOEs) to optimize manufacturing processes for yield and cycle time
• Support early prototyping of opto-mechanical designs for next-generation Spectacles AR glasses
• Develop and characterize high-quality instrumentation for AR product validation
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless handoff from prototype to volume production
• Optimize processes for high-tolerance assemblies in camera and AR optical systems
• Contribute to the delivery of standalone, see-through AR glasses powered by Snap OS
• Drive innovation in AR hardware to enhance real-world play, learning, and collaboration

Minimum Qualifications

• Extensive experience in mechanical engineering or relevant engineering field
• Experience transferring mechanical designs to high-volume production
• Proficiency with CAD design software (e.g., NX, Solidworks)
• Hands-on experience operating CMM and CT scanners for metrology
• Demonstrated ability to analyze mechanical designs and run DOEs
• Experience with component and sub-assembly performance analysis (e.g., dimensional metrology)
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with opto-mechanical systems in AR/VR hardware
• Understanding of manufacturing processes for small, highly toleranced components
• Experience in mechanical design and rapid prototyping of jigs and fixtures
• Software experience (e.g., Python) for data analysis and automation
• Background in AR/VR systems or camera technology development

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Mechanical engineering metrology expertise (CMM, CT scanning)
• CAD proficiency (NX, Solidworks)
• Design of Experiments (DOE) analysis
• Component failure analysis and root cause investigation
• Process optimization for yield and cycle time
• Opto-mechanical design knowledge
• High-tolerance small component manufacturing
• Data analysis for dimensional and performance metrics
• Rapid prototyping of jigs and fixtures
• Cross-functional collaboration in fast-paced environments
• Adaptability to dynamic priorities in AR innovation
• Python or scripting for automation and analysis
• Understanding of AR/VR hardware ecosystems
• Problem-solving in camera technology assemblies
• Attention to detail in precision engineering

Our Benefits

• Paid parental leave for new parents
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Emotional and mental health support programs
• Competitive compensation packages with equity in Snap's long-term success
• Flexible PTO and wellness reimbursement programs
• Onsite perks including meals, fitness facilities, and creative workspaces
• Professional development opportunities in AR and camera technology
• Inclusive culture with diversity and belonging initiatives

"Default Together" Policy: At Snap Inc, we practice a "default together" approach and expect team members to work in an office 4+ days per week.

Snap is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.