Optical Systems Test Engineer

Title: Optical Systems Test Engineer

Job Type: Contract (W2 Only)

Contract Length: 6 months

Pay Range: $80-85/hr

Start Date: ASAP

Location: Onsite - Foster City, CA

Our client, a leader in Autonomous Vehicle Technology, is looking for a skilled Optical Systems Test Engineer to join their team for a 6 months engagement. This project involves developing and implementing testing processes, conducting field tests, and analyzing data to ensure the reliability and performance of optical sensors in a large fleet of autonomous vehicles. This is a high-impact role that requires a self-motivated professional who can hit the ground running and deliver results quickly.

• Optical Characterization:
  Develop and execute test plans for image sensors and optics in both laboratory and field settings, and measure performance metrics (e.g., resolution, modulation transfer function, stray light, contact angle) under varied environmental conditions.
• Process Development:
  Define scalable processes for maintenance tasks (cleaning, recoating, alignment) and hand off requirements for automation or subcontracting. Continuously refine test fixtures, protocols, and data-capture workflows to boost efficiency and repeatability.
• Reliability Assessment:
  Aggregate long-term field data (coating degradation, abrasion, contamination) to build statistical reliability models and work with cross-functional teams to establish service & replacement thresholds.
• Technical Reporting:
  Present key findings, draft technical requirements, and translate complex optics data into clear recommendations for safety-critical deployments.
• Field Execution:
  Plan and execute field tests of new sensors or hardware variants, troubleshoot on-site, capture environmental data, and coach field technicians on proper handling and inspection procedures.

• 4+ years of relevant experience.
• Deep expertise in image-sensor and optical fundamentals, including key performance metrics and test methods. This isn't a learning role—you need to be a subject matter expert.
• Hands-on experience with optics metrology tools (profilometers, spectrometers, haze meters, contact-angle goniometers, etc.).
• Demonstrated ability to design and run experiments (DOE), analyze results statistically, and iterate quickly in a “scrappy” hands-on environment.
• Experience with basic proficiency in programming (e.g., MATLAB, Python) for data analysis, image processing, or instrument control.
• Strong communication skills to provide clear and concise status updates to the project team, with a proven track record coordinating across functional teams.
• B.S. or higher in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline with optics/camera focus.
• W2 only (No C2C or 1099 contractors)

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