Optical Engineer

About Neuralink:We are creating devices that enable a bi-directional interface with the brain. These devices allow us to restore movement to the paralyzed, restore sight to the blind, and revolutionize how humans interact with their digital world.Team Description:The Robot Optics Team is seeking Optical Engineers passionate about shaping the future of operating rooms. We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which includes working on our surgical robotics, supporting operating room equipment, and manufacturing custom consumables. The core device we work on is the robotic system that performs implant insertions. Key subsystems include 2D and 3D machine vision cameras, optical coherence tomography, and surgical site illuminators.Our team oversees the entire product lifecycle of all optical subsystems across multiple robot versions, from ideation and design through production, testing, and maintenance. We also design hardware for producing and inspecting consumables, such as laser-machined needle cartridges. As we manufacture a significant portion of our hardware in-house, our core activities include bring-up testing, designing hardware acceptance testers, and overseeing manufacturing processes.Job Description and Responsibilities:As an Optical Engineer at Neuralink, you will develop custom optics and imaging systems used directly in our surgical robot and associated consumables-manufacturing systems. These systems impact everything from sub-micron conventional imaging and laser scanning imaging to non-imaging optical power delivery. You will have the opportunity to work closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers on the Robotics Team and collaborate with neuroscientists and biologists in the rest of the company. You will be responsible for designs from conception through to implementation as well as prototyping and building these optical systems quickly with the rest of the team. Other job responsibilities will include:Designing and simulating optical imaging systemsTesting, verification, and maintenance of robot vision systemsDesigning and developing custom laser interferometry systems and manufacturing systemsTesting and verification of optics consumablesBuilding and testing of beam-scanning instrumentsDeveloping image acquisition and processing softwareResearching and developing new imaging technologies for robotic surgeriesPreparing relevant documentation and SOPs for robot opticsRequired Qualifications: Evidence of exceptional ability in optical engineering or a related fieldBachelor of Science or higher-level degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering3+ years of optical engineering experience2+ years of experience simulating and designing optics in Zemax or equivalent softwarePractical experience in designing, testing, and reliability hardening optical systemsBasic computer skills and proficiency in Google Docs, Google Drive, and GmailPreferred Qualifications:Experience in designing and testing of in-vivo imaging systemsExperience in handling high power laser instrumentsBasic understanding in laser interferometry or optical coherence tomographyHands-on experience in fabricating, terminating, and splicing optical fibersSoftware engineering experience in developing scripts for instrument testingExpected Compensation:The anticipated base salary for this position is expected to be within the following range. Your actual base pay will be determined by your job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. We also believe in aligning our employees’ success with the company's long-term growth. As such, in addition to base salary, Neuralink offers equity compensation (in the form of Restricted Stock Units (RSU)) for all full-time employees.Base Salary Range:$86,000—$143,000 USDWhat We Offer:Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits listed below.An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and most talented experts from different fieldsGrowth potential; we rapidly advance team members who have an outsized impactExcellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO planPaid holidaysCommuter benefitsMeals providedEquity (RSUs) *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded401(k) plan *Interns initially excluded until they work 1,000 hoursParental leave *Temporary Employees & Interns excludedFlexible time off *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded