Senior Machine Vision & Imaging Systems Engineer; Studio Automation

Position: Senior Machine Vision & Imaging Systems Engineer (Studio Automation)
Collectors is the leading creator of innovative technology that provides value-added services for collectors worldwide. We grade, authenticate, vault, and sell millions of record-setting collectibles, all while modernizing and digitalizing the process to further our mission of helping collectors pursue their passions. We’re always on the lookout for talented people to join our growing team.

Our services span collectible coins, trading cards, Funko Pops!, video games, event tickets, autographs, and memorabilia. Our subsidiaries include PSA, PCGS, SGC, WATA, and Card Ladder.

Since our founding in 1986, we have graded and authenticated millions of items. We employ more than 1,900 people across our headquarters in Santa Ana and offices in Jersey City, Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Toronto, Guadalajara, Dallas, and Paris.

We’re looking for a self-motivated and experienced Senior Imaging Engineer to join our dynamic community of collectors. This role requires a blend of technical expertise in manual and automated imaging systems, strong leadership skills, and the ability to design efficient workflows to support high-volume and high-quality photography production for Collectibles. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on leader, capable of managing a small team of imaging technicians.

You’ll report directly to the Senior Manager of Operations Engineering and work onsite from our Santa Ana, California office. Occasional travel is required.
** What You’ll Do
** Equipment Management & Innovation
* Deploy, calibrate, and maintain sophisticated imaging equipment including DSLR/mirrorless cameras, advanced lighting systems, and machine vision stations with turntables and robotic arms
* Diagnose and resolve technical challenges across cameras, lighting, and automated systems to maximize operational uptime
* Research and recommend cutting-edge equipment and technologies that enhance image quality and workflow efficiency
* Oversee comprehensive inventory management for all photography equipment and supplies

Process Excellence & Optimization
* Design, document, and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for manual and automated product photography to ensure consistent, superior quality
* Continuously analyze and refine imaging workflows from initial setup through final image delivery, maximizing efficiency and output
* Partner closely with software and commercial teams to ensure seamless image handoffs to internal and external customers

Team Development & Leadership
* Guide and develop a dedicated team of imaging technicians through mentoring, clear direction, and constructive feedback
* Strategically plan and assign daily and weekly workloads to consistently meet production targets
* Cultivate a collaborative, high-performance team culture that encourages creativity and excellence

Quality Mastery & Execution
* Lead advanced lighting techniques across diverse product types and materials
* Maintain unwavering standards in image quality, including lighting precision, color accuracy, and composition excellence
** Who You Are
** Education & Experience
* Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Visual Arts, or related field preferred (equivalent professional experience considered)
* 6-8 years of proven success in commercial imaging or automation imaging environments with strong emphasis on imaging hardware and controllers
* Minimum 1-2 years of leadership experience with demonstrated team management and workflow optimization capabilities
* Essential hands-on experience deploying, operating, and troubleshooting both manual photography equipment as well as machine vision equipment

Technical Expertise
* Expert-level proficiency with professional DSLR and mirrorless camera systems (Canon, Nikon, Sony) across variable and fixed focal lengths
* Advanced capability in imaging hardware selection (cameras, lenses) for specific field of view and resolution requirements
* Comprehensive knowledge of studio lighting techniques and equipment (strobes, continuous lighting, placement, fill techniques)
* Proven experience with machine vision systems (Keyence, Basler, Cognex) and associated software (Ortery, Pylon, or similar platforms)
* Strong…