Optical Field Test Engineer

2 days ago

Foster City, California, United States Zoox Full time
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Optical Test and Reliability Engineer to join our team. This role will be critical in ensuring the reliability and performance of optical sensors in our large fleet of autonomous vehicles. The engineer will be responsible for developing and implementing testing processes, conducting field tests, and analyzing data to maintain and improve the optical systems. In this role, you will:
  • Optical Characterization - Develop and execute test plans for image sensors and optics in both laboratory and field settings. Measure performance metrics (e.g., resolution, modulation transfer function, stray light, contact angle) under varied environmental conditions
  • Process Development & Refinement - 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
  • Develop methods to test performance change in the field (coating degradation, abrasion, contamination) to support statistical models. Work with cross-functional teams to establish service thresholds and refine procedures based on model outputs
  • Present findings, draft technical requirements, and translate complex optics data into clear recommendations for safety-critical deployments
  • Plan and execute field tests of new sensors or hardware variants, troubleshoot on-site, and capture environmental data
  • Coach field technicians on proper handling and inspection procedures
Qualifications
  • 3+ Years of Practical Optical Test Experience
  • B.S. or higher in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related discipline with optics/camera focus
  • Strong comprehension of image-sensor and optical fundamentals, including key performance metrics and test methods
  • 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
  • Process-development mindset with empathy for field operators and an eye toward automation
  • Basic proficiency with programming (e.g. MATLAB, Python) for data analysis, image processing, or instrument control
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills; proven track record coordinating across functional teams
  • Willingness to work in both lab and outdoor settings, and to travel to deployment sites as needed
Bonus Qualifications
  • Impact: Your work ensures safety-critical vision systems perform reliably in real-world, public-space deployments
  • Variety: From bench-top characterization to field trials, you'll tackle diverse projects that span optics, reliability modeling, and process innovation
  • Collaboration: Engage with a passionate, cross-disciplinary team committed to pushing the boundaries of sensing and robotics
$151,000 - $207,000 a year Base Salary Range
There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level. Leveling, as well as positioning within a level, is determined by a range of factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's relevant years of experience, domain knowledge, and interview performance. The salary range listed in this posting is representative of the range of levels Zoox is considering for this position.
Zoox also offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off (e.g. sick leave, vacation, bereavement), unpaid time off, Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights, Amazon RSUs, health insurance, long-term care insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and life insurance. About Zoox Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We're looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.
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Accommodations If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to [email protected] or your assigned recruiter.
A Final Note: We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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