Principal Optical Engineer

Stealth Startup; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 190,000 - 225,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative biotech startup is on the lookout for a Principal Optical Engineer to spearhead the design and development of cutting-edge optical systems. This pivotal role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize optical submodules, ensuring they meet rigorous performance and quality standards. With a focus on advancing optical performance for diverse biological applications, the ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in optical engineering and project management. Join a dynamic team where your expertise will contribute to groundbreaking advancements in biotechnology and optical technologies, making a significant impact in the field.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in optical engineering with a strong project management background.
• Proven track record of successful product contributions from development to launch.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine optical submodules, ensuring performance and quality.
• Lead optical experiments and collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Skills

Optical Design

Project Management

Communication Skills

Technical Leadership

Education

Master’s degree in Optical Engineering

PhD in related field

Job description

Biotech stealth startup seeking a Principal Optical Engineer to drive and scale optical design and development efforts. This role is ideal for an engineer with deep technical expertise and a passion for building world-class optical systems. This role will be a member of the Product Development extended staff team.

About the role

• Partner cross-functionally to develop and refine optical submodules including detailed design, sub-component selection and optimization, integration with other submodules (fluidics, thermal, etc.), testing and validation, and manufacturing.
• Ensure the optical components and assemblies meet the performance, quality, and scalability needs of our products.
• Work with team members in the lab to set up, execute, and troubleshoot optical experiments on test tables, breadboards, and instrument prototypes.
• Work closely with executive leadership to prioritize R&D initiatives and provide input on product roadmaps.
• Serve as a technical and project lead for Optical supplier interactions.
• Lead efforts to optimize optical performance in terms of resolution, accuracy, SNR, and speed for diverse biological applications.

About you

• Master’s degree in Optical Engineering or a related field with 15 years of related experience. PhD preferred.
• Proven history of key contributions to successful products from early stage to product launch and support of on-market products.
• Advanced project management and phase gate development understanding and capability.
• Strong communication skills and excellent attention to detail.
• Significant experience managing third party development and contract manufacturers.

The estimated base salary range for this position is $190,000 - $225,000/year. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors.

Seniority level

Not Applicable

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Engineering and Science

Industries

Biotechnology Research, Technology, Information and Internet, and Semiconductor Manufacturing