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Job Description
About the job
Job Title :
Optical Systems Engineer Reports to :
CEO Job Location :
New Orleans, LA About LumaWave At LumaWave, we're redefining point-of-care ultrasound by unlocking a new dimension of imaging through photoacoustics. We envision a future where clinicians don't just see anatomy, they understand physiology in real time. Where imaging is richer, more precise, and untethered from legacy limitations. A future where light and sound work together to reveal what was once invisible at the point-of-care. Job Summary LumaWave is seeking a highly motivated Optical Systems Engineer to drive the design and optimization of photoacoustic imaging systems for biomedical applications. This role combines hands-on experimentation with computational modeling to enable robust signal generation in tissue and inform system-level design decisions. The candidate will collaborate cross-functionally to integrate optical and acoustic subsystems, partner with academic collaborators to meet milestones, and translate early-stage research into validated prototypes. Operating in a fast-paced startup environment, you will own technical workstreams, develop reproducible workflows, and create high-quality documentation to support both internal development and external funding efforts. Job Responsibilities (but not limited to) Lead the optimization of photoacoustic imaging system parameters to enable robust signal generation in tissue. Develop and apply Monte-Carlo models to understand light-tissue interactions and inform system-level design decisions. Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams (acoustic, hardware, systems) to ensure cohesive integration of optical and ultrasound components. Partner closely with academic collaborators to execute project plans and meet technical milestones. Operate effectively in a fast-paced startup environment, demonstrating autonomy, adaptability, and the ability to drive work forward with minimal supervision. Develop protocols, technical documentation, and supporting materials for internal alignment and external funding efforts (e.g., grants, reports, presentations). Education/Experience Requirements MS or PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Applied Physics or an equivalent field. Strong background in biomedical optics and/or photoacoustic imaging. Proven experience with benchtop optics & hands-on experimentation. Proficient in scientific computing tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for data processing. Preferred Hands-on experience integrating optical systems with acoustic or imaging platforms, including alignment, calibration, and signal optimization. Experience in medical device, or biomedical imaging industries, particularly in early-stage or R&D-focused environments. Demonstrated ability to work in multidisciplinary and fast-paced environments, translating early-stage research concepts into functional prototypes and validated experiments. Prior involvement in grant-funded research or startup environments, including contributing to proposals, technical reports, or publications. What Success Looks Like Photoacoustic design parameters are clearly defined, validated, and aligned with system-level performance goals and deliverables. Experimental and modeling workflows consistently produce high-confidence data that de-risks key technical assumptions and accelerates development. Collaborative milestones with external partners are met on time, with strong alignment across internal and academic teams. The platform advances with robust, well-characterized optical performance, supported by clear protocols, documentation, and reproducible results. You operate effectively in a fast-paced startup environment, taking ownership of workstreams and driving progress with minimal supervision. High-quality technical documentation and supporting materials are developed to enable internal decision-making and strengthen external funding efforts. Compensation Disclosure The final compensation offered for this position will depend on role, level, qualifications, experience, and work location. The offered compensation may also include equity and a bonus program. Benefits Competitive benefits will be offered, commensurate with the candidate's qualifications and experience. EEO LumaWave is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin/ancestry, age, disability, marital status, medical condition, and veteran status.
