About the company:
Zoox is transforming mobility-as-a-service by developing a fully autonomous, purpose-built fleet designed for AI to drive and humans to enjoy.
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 conditionsProcess 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 repeatabilityReliability Assessment - Aggregate long-term field data (coating degradation, abrasion, contamination) to build statistical reliability models. Work with cross-functional teams to establish service & replacement thresholds based on model outputsPresent findings, draft technical requirements, and translate complex optics data into clear recommendations for safety-critical deploymentsPlan and execute field tests of new sensors or hardware variants, troubleshoot on-site, and capture environmental dataCoach field technicians on proper handling and inspection proceduresQualifications:
Strong comprehension of image-sensor and optical fundamentals, including key performance metrics and test methodsHands-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 environmentProcess-development mindset with empathy for field operators and an eye toward automationBasic proficiency with programming (e.g. MATLAB, Python) for data analysis, image processing, or instrument controlExcellent verbal and written communication skills; proven track record coordinating across functional teamsWillingness to work in both lab and outdoor settings, and to travel to deployment sites as neededB.S. or higher in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related discipline with optics/camera focusBonus Qualifications:
Impact: Your work ensures safety-critical vision systems perform reliably in real-world, public-space deploymentsVariety: From bench-top characterization to field trials, you’ll tackle diverse projects that span optics, reliability modeling, and process innovationCollaboration: Engage with a passionate, cross-disciplinary team committed to pushing the boundaries of sensing and robotics
