Staff Optical Engineer

At Element Biosciences, we are passionate about our mission to empower the scientific community with more freedom and flexibility to accelerate our collective impact on humanity. We have built a highly efficient product-driven organization where employees can learn, grow, and thrive in a challenging but encouraging environment. We are committed to scientific integrity, collegiality, honesty, objectivity, and openness.

We’re looking for a talented Staff Optical Engineer to drive optical systems development of our multi-omic discovery platforms, from concept to commercialization. This is a great opportunity for candidates with a strong background in optics, expertise in imaging systems and passion for technology development.  This role will report to the Senior Vice President, Engineering and be based in San Diego.

If you possess the following and want to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to explore this role.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Drive requirements gathering, design, review, integration and verification of optical modules
• Develop optical system models (incl. schematics, simulations, tolerance analysis)
• Design, build and integrate complex optics including objectives, tube lenses, illumination, focusing and sensing components
• Develop and implement metrology and testing methods to characterize optical system performance
• Perform advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis
• Optimize designs for performance, cost, and manufacturability
• Ensure successful production transfer (NPI activities)
• Lead vendor selection and project management activities
• Conduct theoretical and experimental research into innovative imaging approaches for our product roadmap
• Collaborate across hardware, firmware, software, supply chain, manufacturing and field service functions
• Stay up-to-date with the latest technology advancements in the field of optics, photonics and imaging

Education and Experience:

• Minimum master’s degree in optical engineering (or equivalent) with 8+ years of relevant industry experience
• Successful track record developing world-class scientific imaging devices, preferably fluorescent microscopy
• Deep knowledge of optical design principles, practices and tools
• Expertise in geometrical & physical optics, metrology, optical materials, autofocus techniques and laser safety standards
• Proficient in optical component selection such as lenses, mirrors, prisms, filters, mounts, sensors and lasers
• Advanced capability in using optical design software such as Zemax or Code V
• Experience with image analysis and signal processing
• Proficient with Python, Matlab and / or LabView programming
• Experience with hands-on optical and optomechanical system integration and alignment
• Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making skills

Physical Requirements:

• Frequently moves boxes weighing up to 20 pounds

Location:

• San Diego/On-Site

Travel: 

• Up to 10% domestic, or as needed

Job Type:

• Full-time, Exempt

Base Compensation

• Pay Range: $125,000 - $165,000

In addition to base compensation, you will be eligible for stock options, discretionary annual bonus, no cost health insurance plans, 401k with company match, and flexible paid time off. 

Please Note: Base compensation will depend on multiple factors, including geographic location, qualifications,

and experience. 

We foster an environment such that all people are afforded the freedom to pursue their passions without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status or any other characteristics protected by law.