Principal Optical Engineer

Principal Optical Engineer

We're hiring a Principal Optical Engineer to own the optical architecture of a next-generation DNA sequencing platform — from concept through commercialization. You'll drive the design, simulation, tolerancing, and characterization of a high-sensitivity optical detection system, partnering closely with cross-functional and external CRO/CDMO teams to bring a manufacturable product to market.

Define optical architecture and technical strategy for high-throughput DNA sequencing platforms

Lead end-to-end design, modeling, and optimization of illumination, imaging, and detection paths

Perform optical design, ray tracing, tolerance analysis, and stray-light analysis in Zemax OpticStudio

Build, align, test, and characterize optical prototypes and subsystems on the bench

Define specs for custom optical components, coatings, and sources; own supplier drawings and acceptance criteria

Partner with manufacturing contractors to transfer designs from prototype to volume production

Lead the optical system through feasibility, design verification, design transfer, and commercial launch

Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, software, and assay teams for full instrument integration

M.S. or Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Optical Sciences, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field

10+ years of optical engineering/system design experience with multiple products commercialized

Expert-level Zemax OpticStudio (sequential and non-sequential modeling, optimization, tolerancing)

Hands-on bench experience with optical alignment, testing, and characterization

Experience working with CRO/CDMOs and contract manufacturers on make-vs-buy and design transfer

Deep knowledge of aberrations, diffraction, radiometry, polarization, and detector/sensor selection

Preferred: experience with ultra-high-sensitivity detection (fluorescence, single-molecule, low-light imaging) and life science/genomics/diagnostics instruments

Compensation & Benefits $175,000–$210,000/year (DOE) Medical, dental, vision; company-paid life insurance; 401(k); generous PTO