We are hiring an Optical Engineer at the Associate or Senior level to join Arcadia's research team. This is a role for an optical scientist with a demonstrated aptitude for developing novel measurement techniques: someone who can identify the limits of existing optical tools and invent new ones to address them. Optical instrumentation is central to how we study living systems. Our current work spans spontaneous Raman spectroscopy, coherent Raman imaging (SRS and CARS), and live-cell microscopy of diverse organisms. We bias toward label-free modalities that allow us to work across a wider range of organisms and generate data that is more readily comparable across biological systems. We invent tools with affordability and usability in mind to enable greater adoption and impact. The Optical Engineer will be on the research team, contributing directly to the scientific program by innovating on optical approaches. They will also collaborate with the product development team to help transform new technologies into professionalized tools that can be deployed more broadly. Therefore, the Optical Engineer should be excited and able to approach their inventions with scalability as a design consideration from the outset. What You'll Do 3434 Assess Arcadia's current optical capabilities in the context of our active research program and identify opportunities for new or improved approaches. 3434 Design, build, and characterize new optical systems, working across hardware, acquisition software, and data analysis as needed. 3434 Collaborate closely with Arcadia's research scientists or external partners to understand experimental requirements and translate them into instrumentation solutions. 3434 Contribute to computational and analytical pipelines for spectral and imaging data, including signal processing and ML-based approaches where relevant. 3434 Create open source protocols and designs. Required 3434 PhD in optical engineering, physics, applied physics, or a closely related field. 3434 At least 2 years experience in an industrial or start-up environment. 3434 Hands-on experience designing and building optical systems. 3434 Demonstrated aptitude for developing novel optical techniques or instrumentation. 3434 Proficiency writing code for instrument control, data acquisition, or quantitative analysis. 3434 Ability to work independently and communicate technical findings clearly to a scientific audience. Preferred 3434 Experience with Raman spectroscopy (spontaneous, SRS, and/or CARS) or other label-free imaging modalities. 3434 Experience doing research as a post-doctoral fellow 3434 Familiarity with fluorescence microscopy and the practical challenges of preparing and imaging live biological samples. 3434 Experience with spectral or image analysis, including signal processing or machine learning methods. 3434 History of open science contributions, including published code, open instrument designs, or non-traditional publication formats Associate vs. Senior We are open to candidates at two levels, based on experience. Associate Optical Engineer, $150-200K 3434 Strong research record, typically through a PhD and postdoctoral or early industry experience. 3434 Demonstrated technical creativity in optical instrumentation 3434 Can immediately contribute to research directions. Senior Optical Engineer, $200-275K 3434 Substantive track record of independent, innovative contributions to optical technique development. 3434 Experience independently defining and executing strategic research directions. 3434 Experience managing a small technical team. Both levels include benefits and a highly competitive equity offering. The position will require the individual to be on-site at our Emeryville, California headquarters. Application Process Please submit a resume and fully answer all application questions addressing your interest in and qualifications for the position. The review process will involve in-person interviews and a short, practical work test. Employment offers are contingent on reference and background checks.