Senior Imaging Engineer

Collectors is the leading creator of innovative technology that provides value-added services for collectors worldwide. We grade, authenticate, vault, and sell millions of record-setting collectibles, all while modernizing and digitalizing the process to further our mission of helping collectors pursue their passions. We’re always on the lookout for talented people to join our growing team.

Our services span collectible coins, trading cards, Funko Pops!, video games, event tickets, autographs, and memorabilia. Our subsidiaries include PSA, PCGS, SGC, WATA, and Card Ladder.

Since our founding in 1986, we have graded and authenticated millions of items. We employ more than 1,900 people across our headquarters in Santa Ana and offices in Jersey City, Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Toronto, Guadalajara, Dallas, and Paris.

We’re looking for a self-motivated and experienced Senior Imaging Engineer to join our dynamic community of collectors. This role requires a blend of technical expertise in manual and automated imaging systems, strong leadership skills, and the ability to design efficient workflows to support high-volume and high-quality photography production for Collectibles. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on leader, capable of managing a small team of imaging technicians.
 

You’ll report directly to the Senior Manager of Operations Engineering and work onsite from our Santa Ana, California office. Occasional travel is required. 
 

What You’ll Do

Equipment Management & Innovation

• Deploy, calibrate, and maintain sophisticated imaging equipment including DSLR/mirrorless cameras, advanced lighting systems, and machine vision stations with turntables and robotic arms

• Diagnose and resolve technical challenges across cameras, lighting, and automated systems to maximize operational uptime

• Research and recommend cutting-edge equipment and technologies that enhance image quality and workflow efficiency

• Oversee comprehensive inventory management for all photography equipment and supplies
   

Process Excellence & Optimization

• Design, document, and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for manual and automated product photography to ensure consistent, superior quality

• Continuously analyze and refine imaging workflows from initial setup through final image delivery, maximizing efficiency and output

• Partner closely with software and commercial teams to ensure seamless image handoffs to internal and external customers
   

Team Development & Leadership

• Guide and develop a dedicated team of imaging technicians through mentoring, clear direction, and constructive feedback

• Strategically plan and assign daily and weekly workloads to consistently meet production targets

• Cultivate a collaborative, high-performance team culture that encourages creativity and excellence
   

Quality Mastery & Execution

• Lead advanced lighting techniques across diverse product types and materials

• Maintain unwavering standards in image quality, including lighting precision, color accuracy, and composition excellence

Who You Are

Education & Experience

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Visual Arts, or related field preferred (equivalent professional experience considered)

• 6-8 years of proven success in commercial imaging or automation imaging environments with strong emphasis on imaging hardware and controllers

• Minimum 1-2 years of leadership experience with demonstrated team management and workflow optimization capabilities

• Essential hands-on experience deploying, operating, and troubleshooting both manual photography equipment as well as machine vision equipment
   

Technical Expertise

• Expert-level proficiency with professional DSLR and mirrorless camera systems (Canon, Nikon, Sony) across variable and fixed focal lengths

• Advanced capability in imaging hardware selection (cameras, lenses) for specific field of view and resolution requirements

• Comprehensive knowledge of studio lighting techniques and equipment (strobes, continuous lighting, placement, fill techniques)

• Proven experience with machine vision systems (Keyence, Basler, Cognex) and associated software (Ortery, Pylon, or similar platforms)

• Strong foundation in color management spanning print to digital image workflows

• Adobe Photoshop proficiency is advantageous

• Knowledge of AI/Deep Learning applications in imaging is a plus
   

Leadership & Professional Skills

• Outstanding leadership and team management abilities with talent for motivating and developing others

• Superior problem-solving and technical troubleshooting capabilities

• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills with proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in fast-paced environments

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Meticulous attention to detail with unwavering commitment to high-quality deliverables
   

Salary Range: The salary range for this position is $97,240 - $131,560. Actual compensation on this range varies based on a variety of non-discriminatory factors, including location, job level, experience, and skill set. This role may be eligible for bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation, please ask your recruiter for details.

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. 

Collectors uses e-Verify to validate your ability to work legally in the United States.

We are aware that there are instances where individuals are receiving job offers that fraudulently allege to be from Collectors or one of our business units. This type of fraud can be carried out through false websites, through fake e-mails claiming to be from the company or through social media. We never ask for personal information such as your bank account, Social Security numbers or National IDs, nor do we send or request payments for the purchase of business-related equipment. If you suspect fraud, please reach out to [email protected].

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, national origin, gender, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital or parental status, disability, veteran status, or other class protected by applicable law. We believe that a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills will better service the diverse community of collectors we support.

If you require an accommodation to apply or interview with us due to a disability or special need, please email [email protected].

U.S. residents: for disclosures relating to personal information we collect during the employment application and recruitment process, please see our Privacy Notice for U.S. Applicants.

If you are based in California, you can read information for California residents here.