Sensor Characterization & Test Engineer

Global Connect Technologies; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Global Connect Technologies in Boston, MA, seeks a sensor test engineer to drive image quality characterization and 3D sensing validation. You will set up optical test benches, run ToF/stereo/structured light tests, and analyze results to ensure performance under varying conditions.

You will develop SOPs, automate tests with Python/MATLAB, and compile detailed reports for engineering reviews. Collaboration with cross-functional teams and cloud-based data workflows are integral to the role.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant technical discipline.
• At least 2 years of sensor testing experience.
• Hands-on experience with image quality characterization (resolution, noise, color, distortion).
• Experience with 3D sensing technologies (ToF, stereo, structured light, LiDAR).
• Proficiency with Python, MATLAB, or equivalent.
• Experience with cloud environments and AWS for test data workflows.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
• Manage laboratory inventory and calibration schedules.
• Coordinate lab space, storage, and equipment layouts for efficiency.
• Develop and maintain SOPs, workflows, and test documentation.
• Set up and maintain optical test benches and calibration targets.
• Execute image quality characterization tests and 3D sensing tests.
• Analyze test data and generate detailed technical reports.
• Collaborate with engineering to define acceptance criteria and root causes.
• Support automated test solutions and scripting tools to improve throughput.
• Contribute to test fixtures and data workflows in AWS.

Skills

Image quality analysis

3D sensing tech

Electro-optical testing

Lab operations

Python & MATLAB scripting

Sensor testing (2+ yrs)

Cloud testing with AWS

System analysis & debugging

Education

Electrical Engineering

Optical Engineering

Physics

Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Multimeters

Optical measurement devices

Light sources

Imatest

Camera calibration tools

Python-based test solutions

Job description

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment in accordance with established safety procedures.
• Manage laboratory inventory, including sensors, fixtures, optical targets, cables, and supporting equipment.
• Track and maintain calibration schedules for laboratory instruments and reference standards.
• Coordinate lab space utilization, storage systems, and equipment layouts to maximize efficiency.
• Develop and maintain laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs), workflows, and best-practice documentation.
• Manage incoming and outgoing sensor samples, ensuring proper labeling, storage, and traceability.
• Execute image quality characterization tests, including resolution, noise, dynamic range, color accuracy, distortion, and uniformity measurements for 2D sensors.
• Perform electro-optical testing using industry-standard analysis tools and custom test setups.
• Evaluate 2D sensor performance against specifications under varying environmental conditions such as temperature, lighting, and vibration.
• Set up, align, and maintain optical test benches, illumination sources, and calibration targets to ensure repeatable measurements.
• Conduct depth accuracy, precision, and repeatability testing of 3D sensing systems, including Time-of-Flight (ToF), stereo vision, structured light, and LiDAR technologies.
• Analyze point cloud quality, including noise levels, fill rates, range accuracy, and field-of-view validation.
• Perform volumetric and multi-plane accuracy testing using calibrated reference targets.
• Evaluate 3D sensor performance under varying environmental conditions and interference scenarios.
• Develop, execute, and continuously improve test plans, methodologies, and procedures for sensor qualification and characterization.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret test data using statistical and engineering principles.
• Generate detailed technical reports summarizing test findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to define acceptance criteria, investigate failures, and identify root causes.
• Support the development of automated test solutions and scripting tools to improve throughput, consistency, and repeatability.
• Contribute to the design and enhancement of test fixtures, laboratory tools, and overall testing capabilities.
• Apply software testing practices and work with cloud environments, including AWS, as part of sensor test infrastructure and data workflows.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• At least 2 years of experience in sensor testing, electro-optical testing, hardware validation, or a related engineering role.
• Hands-on experience with image quality characterization, including resolution, noise, color, and distortion analysis.
• Experience working with 3D sensing technologies such as Time-of-Flight (ToF), stereo vision, structured light, or LiDAR.
• Proficiency with laboratory test equipment including oscilloscopes, multimeters, optical measurement devices, light sources, and related instrumentation.
• Experience using data analysis and scripting tools such as Python, MATLAB, or equivalent.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, particularly in managing laboratory operations and documentation.
• Ability to produce clear and thorough technical documentation and test reports.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced research, development, or product engineering environment.
• Experience with software testing and working in cloud environments, including AWS.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• 5 or more years of experience in sensor characterization, electro-optical testing, or hardware validation engineering.
• Experience with image quality analysis tools such as Imatest or comparable platforms.
• Knowledge of camera calibration techniques, optical alignment, and imaging system performance evaluation.
• Experience developing automated test frameworks and Python-based test solutions.
• Familiarity with sensor interface protocols such as MIPI CSI-2, USB3 Vision, and GigE Vision.
• Experience managing laboratory operations, inventory systems, and continuous improvement initiatives such as 5S.
• Knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC), Measurement System Analysis (MSA), and quality improvement methodologies.
• Experience supporting advanced technology development programs involving robotics, automation, computer vision, or sensing systems.
• Background in cloud technologies and AWS as part of test data management or analysis workflows.