Optical Test and Reliability Engineer at Zoox

Foster City, California, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Mid-level (3 to 4 years), Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Autonomous VehiclesIndustries

Requirements

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
B.S. or higher in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related discipline with optics/camera focus

Responsibilities

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
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
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 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

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

optical characterizationimage sensorsoptics metrologyprofilometersspectrometershaze meterscontact-angle goniometersDOEstatistical analysisreliability modelingfield testingtest plan development

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the salary range for the Optical Test and Reliability Engineer position?

The base salary range is $146,000 - $201,000 a year.

Is this a remote position, or is there a location requirement?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What are the key qualifications and skills required for this role?

Required skills include strong comprehension of image-sensor and optical fundamentals, hands-on experience with optics metrology tools like profilometers and spectrometers, ability to design experiments and analyze statistically, process-development mindset, basic programming proficiency in MATLAB or Python, and excellent communication skills. A B.S. or higher in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related field with optics focus is needed.

What is the company culture like for this team at Zoox?

The role involves collaboration with a passionate, cross-disciplinary team committed to pushing the boundaries of sensing and robotics, offering variety from bench-top characterization to field trials.

What makes a strong candidate for this Optical Test and Reliability Engineer role?

Strong candidates demonstrate hands-on optics experience, a scrappy experimental approach, process-development skills with automation focus, programming for data analysis, and cross-team coordination, plus willingness for lab, outdoor, and travel work.

Zoox

Develops autonomous electric ride-hailing vehicles

About Zoox

Zoox focuses on creating a fully integrated autonomous ride-hailing service designed specifically for urban transportation. Unlike other companies that modify existing vehicles for self-driving capabilities, Zoox has engineered its own vehicle from the ground up, optimizing it for safety, efficiency, and passenger comfort. The vehicle features advanced sensors, cameras, and AI systems that allow it to navigate complex city environments. It can carry up to four passengers in a spacious interior, ensuring a pleasant ride experience. Safety is paramount, with rigorous testing and collaboration with regulatory bodies to meet high standards. Additionally, Zoox's vehicles are fully electric, promoting sustainability by reducing emissions. The company also develops a user-friendly ride-hailing platform that uses data analytics to improve routing and reduce wait times. Zoox aims to enhance urban mobility while prioritizing safety and environmental responsibility.

Menlo Park, CaliforniaHeadquarters

2014Year Founded

$1,206.2MTotal Funding

ACQUISITIONCompany Stage

Automotive & Transportation, Energy, AI & Machine LearningIndustries

1,001-5,000Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance

Maternity & Paternity Leave

Vacation & Paid Time Off

Sick Days

Free Lunch or Snacks

Employee Assitance Program

Risks

Increased competition from Waymo and Cruise may impact Zoox's market share.

Expansion into new cities introduces regulatory and operational challenges for Zoox.

Partnership with Williams Racing may divert focus from core vehicle development.

Differentiation

Zoox designs vehicles specifically for autonomous operation, unlike retrofitting existing cars.

Zoox's vehicles feature a unique, futuristic design with advanced AI systems.

Zoox offers a fully integrated ride-hailing service optimized for safety and efficiency.

Upsides

Zoox's expansion into Austin and Miami opens new markets and data collection opportunities.

Partnership with Williams Racing boosts Zoox's brand visibility in the U.S. market.

Hiring former Tesla executive Gao could accelerate Zoox's technological advancements.

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