Senior Optical Research Engineer

AgZen is tackling two of agriculture’s biggest challenges: waste and pollution.

Each year, billions are spent on pesticides and fertilizers, yet most never reach the crops - resulting in costly waste and significant environmental harm. We’re changing that. By using machine learning, computer vision, and fluid dynamics, AgZen optimizes chemical application in real time, reducing input use, minimizing pollution, and protecting both yields and ecosystems.

Founded out of MIT and backed by $13.5M in funding, our multidisciplinary team of engineers and ag science experts is redefining sustainable farming with breakthrough technology. We’re not just improving agriculture, we’re reimagining what’s possible.

As a Senior Optical Research Engineer, you will own and define the future of our imaging capabilities. You will serve as our foundational expert in this domain, reporting directly to the Head of Perception Engineering and shaping our entire hardware sensing strategy. We are looking for a curious, creative, and tenacious candidate who is passionate about developing core sensing technology to build hardware that can measure droplets as small as 150μm on leaf surfaces.

Location: This role is located in Somerville, MA (Boston area) with work required to be in-person.

• Lead the architecture and development of novel, high-resolution optical systems from the ground up, including component selection (cameras, lenses, illumination) and setup design.
• Utilize optical simulation software (e.g., Zemax, Light Tools) to rapidly iterate on designs and validate performance through hands-on prototyping and experimentation.
• Collaborate closely with computer vision and hardware teams to seamlessly integrate optical solutions.
• Contribute to the development of our physics-based droplet simulation tools.
• Drive innovation by staying at the forefront of advancements in optics and imaging to continuously improve our technology and maintain our competitive edge.
• Develop clear documentation for optical systems, experiments, and design choices.

Required:

• Ph.D. in Experimental Physics, Applied Physics, Optical Engineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in designing, building, and testing complex optical setups for imaging and/or microscopy.
• Proficiency in optical simulation software (e.g., Zemax, Light Tools).
• Strong understanding of light-matter interactions, particularly in biological or agricultural contexts.
• Hands-on experience with optical components including lenses, filters, light sources (LEDs, lasers), and detectors (CMOS, CCD).
• Experience with image processing and analysis techniques.

Preferred:

• Proficiency with data analysis languages such as Python or MATLAB.
• Experience taking an optical system from concept to a manufactured product.
• Familiarity with computer vision and machine learning applications.
• Track record of publications or patents in a relevant field.
• Knowledge of spectroscopy or other advanced imaging modalities.

• Mid-Senior level

• Full-time

• Engineering and Information Technology
• Industries
• Farming

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