Optical Systems Test Engineer

Job description

HireArt is helping our client find an Optical Systems Test Engineer to support the reliability and performance of optical sensing systems across a large fleet of autonomous vehicles.

In this role, you’ll develop and execute test strategies for optical sensors, conduct lab and field testing, and analyze performance data to ensure systems meet safety and reliability standards. You’ll play a key role in improving testing processes, supporting field operations, and driving continuous improvement across optical system performance.

The ideal candidate is hands-on, analytical, and comfortable working across lab and field environments, with strong expertise in optical systems and test methodologies.

As an Optical Systems Test Engineer, you'll:

• Develop and execute test plans for image sensors and optical systems in both laboratory and field environments.
• Measure and analyze key performance metrics such as resolution, modulation transfer function (MTF), stray light, and contact angle under varying conditions.
• Define scalable processes for maintenance activities (e.g., cleaning, recoating, alignment) and support automation or vendor handoffs.
• Improve test fixtures, protocols, and data capture workflows to enhance efficiency and repeatability.
• Analyze long-term field data (e.g., coating degradation, contamination, abrasion) to build reliability models.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to define service and replacement thresholds based on data insights.
• Present findings and translate complex optical data into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Plan and execute field testing for new sensors and hardware variants, including on-site troubleshooting and environmental data capture.
• Train and support field technicians on proper handling, inspection, and maintenance procedures.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in optical engineering, electrical engineering, applied physics, or a related field with an optics focus
• 4+ years of relevant experience
• Strong understanding of optical systems, image sensors, and performance metrics
• Hands-on experience with optical metrology tools (e.g., profilometers, spectrometers, haze meters, contact-angle goniometers)
• Experience designing and executing experiments (DOE) and performing statistical analysis
• Process-oriented mindset with an emphasis on scalability and operational efficiency
• Basic programming experience (e.g., MATLAB, Python) for data analysis, image processing, or instrument control
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across teams
• Willingness to work in both lab and outdoor environments and travel to deployment sites as needed

Benefits:

• Pre-tax commuter benefits
• Employer (HireArt) Subsidized healthcare benefits (eligibility begins on the first of the month following 60 days of service)
• Flexible Spending Account for healthcare-related costs
• HireArt covers all costs for short and long-term disability and life insurance
• 401k package

Commitment: This is a full-time, ongoing contract position staffed via HireArt. It will be onsite and available to candidates who are local to the Foster City, CA area.

HireArt values diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. Unfortunately, we are not able to sponsor visas or employ corp-to-corp.