Optical Engineer, Advanced Light Sheet Microscopy

Biohub

Optical Engineer developing and maintaining control software for advanced light-sheet microscopes at Biohub. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams for imaging system design and optimization.

Posted 6/3/2026full-timeSan Francisco • California • 🇺🇸 United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $153,000 - $191,000 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

AssemblyPythonRust

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Design, prototype, implement, and optimise custom subsystems for light-sheet microscopes and other advanced imaging platforms. Integrate mechanical, thermal, fluidic, optical, and electronic components into cohesive, reliable experimental systems.
Develop modular hardware control software in Python (and occasionally C/C++), interfacing with cameras, stages, lasers, sensors, and other instrumentation components.
Design and implement automated or “smart” imaging protocols incorporating feedback loops (e.g., sensor-driven control, adaptive imaging strategies, and real-time decision-making).
Collaborate with scientists, bioengineers, computer scientists, and biologists to implement new features and capabilities, including hardware interfaces, acquisition modes, graphical user interfaces, smart automation, high-performance data visualization, and scalable data storage pipelines.
Contribute to data acquisition workflows capable of handling large-scale imaging datasets, including performance optimization, structured data saving, and integration with downstream analysis pipelines.
Document system architectures, mechanical designs, schematics, and assembly procedures to ensure reproducibility, maintainability, and scalability.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Master of Science, or PhD degree in Optics, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field.
Strong practical engineering skills with demonstrated experience designing, prototyping, and iterating hardware control systems (at least 5 years).
Solid working knowledge of electronics and embedded systems, including microcontrollers, DACs/ADCs, and basic PCB design (at least 4 years).
Experience with CAD design (e.g., SolidWorks, OnShape, or similar) and rapid prototyping methods such as 3D printing, machining, laser cutting (at least 3 years)
Strong programming experience in Python; Experience with C/C++/Rust desired (at least 5 years).
Proven experience developing hardware control scripts and integrating third-party devices.
Proven ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical, electrical, and software systems in experimental or research environments.
Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset; ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Provides a generous employer match on employee 401(k) contributions to support planning for the future.
Paid time off to volunteer at an organization of your choice.
Funding for select family-forming benefits.
Relocation support for employees who need assistance moving

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

PythonCC++hardware control systemselectronicsembedded systemsmicrocontrollersCAD design3D printingdata acquisition workflows

Soft Skills

strong communication skillscollaborative mindsettroubleshootingmultidisciplinary teamwork

Certifications

Master of SciencePhD