Principal Perception Hardware Engineer

Inspiren•New York, NY

15h•$200,000 - $240,000•Remote

About The Position

We are seeking a highly-skilled Principal Perception Hardware Engineer to own and lead the design and execution of our camera-based sensing systems and optical sub-systems for our devices. As a senior member of the hardware engineering team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the visual intelligence and reliability of our solutions. You will drive innovation in CMOS image sensors, lens optics, and Image Signal Processing (ISP), ensure the integration of cutting-edge vision technologies, and deliver perception hardware solutions that meet the highest standards of quality, low-light performance, and privacy-centric sensing across the lifecycle of all of Inspiren’s devices and platforms.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field (PhD preferred).
15+ years of experience in camera hardware development or imaging systems (Principal level seniority), with a track record of shipping high-volume products.
Deep expertise in lens specification, stray light analysis, and the physics of CMOS image sensors (CIS).
Mastery of the Image Signal Processing pipeline, including auto-exposure, white balance, and noise reduction tuning for machine vision.
Proven ability to specify hardware requirements based on the needs of downstream Computer Vision and Machine Learning models.
Proficiency in tools like Zemax, Imatest, or MATLAB for optical modeling and image quality benchmarking.
Hands-on experience with flex circuit design for cameras, MIPI CSI interfaces, and active alignment manufacturing processes.
Understanding of how hardware constraints (bandwidth, power) impact real-time perception at the edge.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex optical concepts to non-experts.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapting to changing priorities.

Nice To Haves

Start-up experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead Perception Hardware Projects: Oversee the end-to-end development of camera systems, from sensor selection and optical design to ISP tuning and mass production release.
Collaborate Cross-Functionally: Work closely with computer vision (CV) scientists, ML engineers, mechanical engineers, and product managers to ensure the hardware output is perfectly tuned for our perception algorithms and clinical use cases.
Innovate and Optimize: Stay current with industry trends in computational photography and 3D sensing. Introduce new methodologies to enhance dynamic range, reduce motion blur, and improve object detection accuracy in varied senior living environments.
Embed Rigorous Design for Excellence (DfX) Mindset: Conduct design reviews and both design and process Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA), partnering with our design and development partners to drive rigorous Design for Cost (DfC), manufacturability (DfM), and long-term reliability (DfR).
Mentor Team Members: Provide technical guidance and mentorship, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation through a culture of continuous learning.
Ensure Quality, Reliability, and Compliance: Architect characterization setups to evaluate MTF (Modular Transfer Function), color accuracy, and SNR. Ensure all vision hardware meets regulatory standards and privacy requirements (e.g., edge-processing constraints).
Problem-Solve: Troubleshoot complex imaging issues such as stray light, sensor noise, or thermal-related focus shifts, and implement effective solutions in a timely manner.