Optical Systems Test Engineer

Title: Optical Systems Test Engineer

Pay Rate: $77/hr + DOE

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Location: Foster City, CA / onsite

Type: Full Time


About Our Client

Our client is a pioneering automotive services organization committed to redefining how people move. With a focus on innovation, quality, and user experience, they collaborate across industries to develop transformative solutions that respond to evolving urban needs.


About the Role

We are seeking an Optical Systems Test Engineer to support the performance, reliability, and continuous improvement of optical sensor systems used in autonomous vehicle operations. In this role, you will design and execute test strategies, analyze performance data, and collaborate cross-functionally to ensure systems meet rigorous safety and reliability standards. You will work across both laboratory and field environments, contributing directly to the advancement of next-generation mobility solutions. Occasional travel is required (~every 6 weeks) to support field testing and fleet operations. Travel may include Bay Area sites (San Francisco, Fremont) as well as domestic locations such as Las Vegas (most frequent), Texas, and Miami.


What you will be doing:

• Develop and execute optical 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, stray light, and surface properties under varying conditions
• Design and refine scalable maintenance and testing processes, including cleaning, alignment, and coating workflows
• Improve test fixtures, protocols, and data collection processes to enhance efficiency and repeatability
• Aggregate and analyze long-term field data to assess system reliability and inform predictive models
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define service thresholds and replacement strategies
• Translate complex optical data into actionable insights and technical recommendations for safety-critical applications
• Plan and execute field testing of new sensors and hardware, including troubleshooting and environmental data capture
• Provide guidance and training to field technicians on handling, inspection, and maintenance procedures

About You

You are a hands-on optical engineer with a strong foundation in imaging systems and test methodologies. You thrive in dynamic environments where you can apply both analytical rigor and practical problem-solving skills. You are comfortable working across teams and translating complex technical concepts into clear, actionable insights.


Required Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of optical systems, image sensors, and associated performance metrics
• Experience with optical metrology tools such as profilometers, spectrometers, haze meters, and goniometers
• Demonstrated ability to design experiments, analyze results statistically, and iterate effectively
• Proficiency in programming tools such as MATLAB or Python for data analysis and system control
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with cross-functional collaboration experience
• Willingness to work in both lab and field environments and travel as needed
• 4-6 years of relevant professional experience
• Bachelor's degree or higher in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with autonomous vehicle systems or similar advanced technologies
• Familiarity with reliability modeling and long-term performance analysis
• Experience developing scalable processes for field operations or maintenance workflows

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the US. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment Visas.


About Cinder

Cinder is a people-first staffing and recruiting company committed to creating workplaces where employees feel valued, supported, and engaged. Our mission is to leverage our power as a recruiting and consulting company to build workplaces where people thrive. Backed by our ISO 9001 certification, we deliver high-quality staffing solutions, and our clients have rated us over 100% for multiple quarters. Join us and be part of a team that makes a real impact!