Principal Optical Engineer | San Diego, CA (Onsite) We're hiring a Principal Optical Engineer to own the optical architecture of a next-generation DNA sequencing platform — from concept through commercialization. You'll drive the design, simulation, tolerancing, and characterization of a high-sensitivity optical detection system, partnering closely with cross-functional and external CRO/CDMO teams to bring a manufacturable product to market. What You'll Do Define optical architecture and technical strategy for high-throughput DNA sequencing platforms Lead end-to-end design, modeling, and optimization of illumination, imaging, and detection paths Perform optical design, ray tracing, tolerance analysis, and stray-light analysis in Zemax OpticStudio Build, align, test, and characterize optical prototypes and subsystems on the bench Define specs for custom optical components, coatings, and sources; own supplier drawings and acceptance criteria Partner with manufacturing contractors to transfer designs from prototype to volume production Lead the optical system through feasibility, design verification, design transfer, and commercial launch Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, software, and assay teams for full instrument integration What You Bring M.S. or Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Optical Sciences, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field 10+ years of optical engineering/system design experience with multiple products commercialized Expert-level Zemax OpticStudio (sequential and non-sequential modeling, optimization, tolerancing) Hands-on bench experience with optical alignment, testing, and characterization Experience working with CRO/CDMOs and contract manufacturers on make-vs-buy and design transfer Deep knowledge of aberrations, diffraction, radiometry, polarization, and detector/sensor selection Preferred: experience with ultra-high-sensitivity detection (fluorescence, single-molecule, low-light imaging) and life science/genomics/diagnostics instruments Compensation & Benefits $175,000–$210,000/year (DOE) Medical, dental, vision; company-paid life insurance; 401(k); generous PTO