Systems Engineer - Instrumentation
Picarro, Santa Clara, CA, United States
Systems Engineer - Instrumentation
Location:
Santa Clara, CA (primarily onsite, occasional remote flexibility)
Group:
Analyzer Product Group (APG), Engineering
Role Summary
Picarro is seeking a Systems Engineer with a unique blend of electrical engineering fundamentals and strong data science capabilities. You will characterize, integrate, and troubleshoot complex Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (CRDS) measurement systems, applying rigorous data analysis to understand system behavior, identify root causes, and drive performance improvements.
This role bridges hardware and software–requiring hands‑on work with optical and electronic subsystems alongside deep statistical analysis and Python‑based data workflows. You will be a key contributor to system validation, performance optimization, and the development of data‑driven insights that inform product design and manufacturing decisions.
Key Responsibilities
System Characterization & Integration
Characterize end‑to‑end performance of CRDS measurement systems, including optical, electronic, and software subsystems
Lead system integration activities, ensuring subsystems work together to meet performance specifications
Develop and execute test protocols for system‑level validation and acceptance testing
Create and maintain characterization databases and performance baselines
Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis
Diagnose complex, multi‑domain issues spanning optics, electronics, firmware, and software
Apply systematic troubleshooting methodologies to isolate failure modes and identify root causes
Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (ME, EE, Firmware, Software) to resolve system‑level issues
Document findings and drive corrective actions through to resolution
Data Analysis & Statistical Methods
Perform rigorous data analysis on system performance data using Python and statistical tools
Develop analysis pipelines for automated data processing, visualization, and reporting
Apply statistical methods (regression, hypothesis testing, DOE, uncertainty analysis) to characterize system behavior
Build predictive models and identify correlations between subsystem parameters and system performance
Create dashboards and tools to monitor system health and performance trends
Spectroscopy & Optical Systems
Work with optical systems, including lasers, detectors, optical cavities, and beam paths
Understand spectroscopic principles and their application to gas measurement
Support optical alignment, optimization, and performance characterization
Collaborate with spectroscopy experts to validate and improve measurement accuracy
Documentation & Process Improvement
Document system characterization procedures, test results, and analysis methodologies
Contribute to design reviews with data‑driven insights and recommendations
Support transition to manufacturing with clear specifications and test procedures
Qualifications
Education & Experience
PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field (fresh graduate or early career), OR
MS in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field with 5+ years of relevant experience
Strong academic or professional background in measurement systems and instrumentation
Experience with spectroscopy, optical systems, or precision measurement is highly valued
Technical Expertise
Data Analysis & Programming:
- Proficient in Python for data analysis, visualization, and automation (NumPy, Pandas, SciPy, Matplotlib)
- Strong statistical analysis skills (regression, DOE, uncertainty quantification, time‑series analysis)
- Experience with data pipelines, Jupyter notebooks, and reproducible analysis workflows
Electronics & Optoelectronics:
- Basic understanding of analog and digital electronics
- Familiarity with photodetectors, laser drivers, signal conditioning, and DAQ systems
- Comfortable using lab instrumentation (oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, optical power meters)
Optical Systems & Spectroscopy:
- Understanding of optical principles (alignment, beam propagation, cavity optics)
- Familiarity with spectroscopic techniques (absorption spectroscopy, CRDS principles a plus)
- Experience characterizing optical system performance
Systems Thinking:
- Ability to understand complex systems with multiple interacting subsystems
- Experience with system‑level integration and validation
- Strong troubleshooting and root‑cause analysis skills
Soft Skills
Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities
Strong written and verbal communication; able to present complex data clearly
Collaborative mindset; works effectively across disciplines (EE, ME, SW, Optics)
Detail‑oriented with strong documentation habits
Self‑directed with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with CRDS or other cavity‑enhanced spectroscopy techniques
Background in gas sensing, atmospheric science, or environmental monitoring
Experience with machine learning for system optimization or anomaly detection
Familiarity with version control (Git) and collaborative development practices
Experience in regulated or high‑reliability product environments
Knowledge of manufacturing test development and statistical process control
Note: This role is ideal for candidates who enjoy working at the intersection of hardware and data‑engineers or physicists who are equally comfortable in the lab with optical systems and at a computer running statistical analyses. We value curiosity, rigor, and the ability to translate data into actionable insights.
Compensation and Benefits
The base salary range for this full‑time position is $140K to $150K. Our total compensation packages includes base salary, bonus eligibility, and equity. Your base salary range and title will be determined based on the location, experience, qualification, skills, knowledge, level, and pay of employees in similar positions.
Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) plans
Life, Short‑Term Disability, and Long‑Term Disability Insurance
Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
Employee Referral Program
401K
Social events (summer picnic, holiday party, team lunches, etc.)
On‑site Health & Wellness programs (fitness challenges, outdoor bootcamp, flu‑shots, etc.)
About Picarro
We are the world's leader in timely, trusted, and actionable data using enhanced optical spectroscopy. Our solutions are used in a wide variety of applications, including natural gas leak detection, ethylene oxide emissions monitoring, semiconductor fabrication, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, atmospheric science, air quality, greenhouse gas measurements, food safety, hydrology, ecology, and more. Our software and hardware are designed and manufactured in Santa Clara, California and are used in over 90 countries worldwide based on over 65 patents related to cavity ring‑down spectroscopy (CRDS) technology and are unparalleled in their precision, ease of use, and reliability.
Equal Opportunity Employer
At Picarro, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, protected veteran status, gender identity, social orientation, or disability. Posted positions are not open to third‑party recruiters/agencies, and unsolicited resume submissions will be considered free referrals.
At Picarro, we strive to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their abilities, have equal opportunities. If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, please contact Picarro, Inc. disabilityassistance@picarro.com for assistance.
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Location:
Santa Clara, CA (primarily onsite, occasional remote flexibility)
Group:
Analyzer Product Group (APG), Engineering
Role Summary
Picarro is seeking a Systems Engineer with a unique blend of electrical engineering fundamentals and strong data science capabilities. You will characterize, integrate, and troubleshoot complex Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (CRDS) measurement systems, applying rigorous data analysis to understand system behavior, identify root causes, and drive performance improvements.
This role bridges hardware and software–requiring hands‑on work with optical and electronic subsystems alongside deep statistical analysis and Python‑based data workflows. You will be a key contributor to system validation, performance optimization, and the development of data‑driven insights that inform product design and manufacturing decisions.
Key Responsibilities
System Characterization & Integration
Characterize end‑to‑end performance of CRDS measurement systems, including optical, electronic, and software subsystems
Lead system integration activities, ensuring subsystems work together to meet performance specifications
Develop and execute test protocols for system‑level validation and acceptance testing
Create and maintain characterization databases and performance baselines
Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis
Diagnose complex, multi‑domain issues spanning optics, electronics, firmware, and software
Apply systematic troubleshooting methodologies to isolate failure modes and identify root causes
Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (ME, EE, Firmware, Software) to resolve system‑level issues
Document findings and drive corrective actions through to resolution
Data Analysis & Statistical Methods
Perform rigorous data analysis on system performance data using Python and statistical tools
Develop analysis pipelines for automated data processing, visualization, and reporting
Apply statistical methods (regression, hypothesis testing, DOE, uncertainty analysis) to characterize system behavior
Build predictive models and identify correlations between subsystem parameters and system performance
Create dashboards and tools to monitor system health and performance trends
Spectroscopy & Optical Systems
Work with optical systems, including lasers, detectors, optical cavities, and beam paths
Understand spectroscopic principles and their application to gas measurement
Support optical alignment, optimization, and performance characterization
Collaborate with spectroscopy experts to validate and improve measurement accuracy
Documentation & Process Improvement
Document system characterization procedures, test results, and analysis methodologies
Contribute to design reviews with data‑driven insights and recommendations
Support transition to manufacturing with clear specifications and test procedures
Qualifications
Education & Experience
PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field (fresh graduate or early career), OR
MS in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field with 5+ years of relevant experience
Strong academic or professional background in measurement systems and instrumentation
Experience with spectroscopy, optical systems, or precision measurement is highly valued
Technical Expertise
Data Analysis & Programming:
- Proficient in Python for data analysis, visualization, and automation (NumPy, Pandas, SciPy, Matplotlib)
- Strong statistical analysis skills (regression, DOE, uncertainty quantification, time‑series analysis)
- Experience with data pipelines, Jupyter notebooks, and reproducible analysis workflows
Electronics & Optoelectronics:
- Basic understanding of analog and digital electronics
- Familiarity with photodetectors, laser drivers, signal conditioning, and DAQ systems
- Comfortable using lab instrumentation (oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, optical power meters)
Optical Systems & Spectroscopy:
- Understanding of optical principles (alignment, beam propagation, cavity optics)
- Familiarity with spectroscopic techniques (absorption spectroscopy, CRDS principles a plus)
- Experience characterizing optical system performance
Systems Thinking:
- Ability to understand complex systems with multiple interacting subsystems
- Experience with system‑level integration and validation
- Strong troubleshooting and root‑cause analysis skills
Soft Skills
Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities
Strong written and verbal communication; able to present complex data clearly
Collaborative mindset; works effectively across disciplines (EE, ME, SW, Optics)
Detail‑oriented with strong documentation habits
Self‑directed with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with CRDS or other cavity‑enhanced spectroscopy techniques
Background in gas sensing, atmospheric science, or environmental monitoring
Experience with machine learning for system optimization or anomaly detection
Familiarity with version control (Git) and collaborative development practices
Experience in regulated or high‑reliability product environments
Knowledge of manufacturing test development and statistical process control
Note: This role is ideal for candidates who enjoy working at the intersection of hardware and data‑engineers or physicists who are equally comfortable in the lab with optical systems and at a computer running statistical analyses. We value curiosity, rigor, and the ability to translate data into actionable insights.
Compensation and Benefits
The base salary range for this full‑time position is $140K to $150K. Our total compensation packages includes base salary, bonus eligibility, and equity. Your base salary range and title will be determined based on the location, experience, qualification, skills, knowledge, level, and pay of employees in similar positions.
Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) plans
Life, Short‑Term Disability, and Long‑Term Disability Insurance
Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
Employee Referral Program
401K
Social events (summer picnic, holiday party, team lunches, etc.)
On‑site Health & Wellness programs (fitness challenges, outdoor bootcamp, flu‑shots, etc.)
About Picarro
We are the world's leader in timely, trusted, and actionable data using enhanced optical spectroscopy. Our solutions are used in a wide variety of applications, including natural gas leak detection, ethylene oxide emissions monitoring, semiconductor fabrication, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, atmospheric science, air quality, greenhouse gas measurements, food safety, hydrology, ecology, and more. Our software and hardware are designed and manufactured in Santa Clara, California and are used in over 90 countries worldwide based on over 65 patents related to cavity ring‑down spectroscopy (CRDS) technology and are unparalleled in their precision, ease of use, and reliability.
Equal Opportunity Employer
At Picarro, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, protected veteran status, gender identity, social orientation, or disability. Posted positions are not open to third‑party recruiters/agencies, and unsolicited resume submissions will be considered free referrals.
At Picarro, we strive to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their abilities, have equal opportunities. If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, please contact Picarro, Inc. disabilityassistance@picarro.com for assistance.
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