Imaging Hardware Systems Engineer

Category:

Manufacturing & Production

Employment Type:

Direct Hire

Reference:

BH-391030

Imaging Hardware Systems Engineer

Direct Hire

100% Remote

Position Overview

We are seeking an Imaging Hardware Systems Engineer to design, implement, and optimize the camera, sensor, optical, and lighting components that form the foundation of advanced computer vision and machine vision applications. This role involves building high-quality imaging environments that enable reliable automated inspection across industrial settings. The position is remote, with up to 50% travel for on-site scoping, installation, and commissioning.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and configure camera, lens, filter, and lighting systems to support robust and repeatable imaging for automated inspection.
• Perform illumination analysis using advanced lighting strategies (backlights, dome lights, ring lights, structured light, etc.) to improve feature contrast and reduce imaging artifacts.
• Evaluate and select machine vision cameras and sensors (CMOS, CCD) based on application requirements such as resolution, sensitivity, and frame rate.
• Develop mechanical designs-including mounts, brackets, and enclosures-ensuring imaging hardware is stable and reliable in active industrial environments.
• Produce engineering documentation, layouts, and schematics using SolidWorks or comparable CAD tools.
• Collaborate closely with vision engineers, controls/automation personnel, and plant operations teams to ensure seamless system integration.
• Oversee contractors and vendors responsible for fabricating and installing imaging hardware solutions.
• Troubleshoot and optimize imaging systems by addressing lighting inconsistencies, focus issues, vibration, or sensor configuration problems.
• Lead field installation efforts, support commissioning activities, and fine-tune imaging and lighting performance during deployment.
• Establish hardware standards, best practices, and documentation for scalable and repeatable systems.
• Develop preventive maintenance procedures for imaging hardware and partner with plant teams to ensure consistent upkeep.
• Implement automated monitoring tools for camera and lighting performance, setting thresholds and alerts for early detection of degradation.
• Stay current with evolving imaging technologies, optical components, and illumination methodologies to enhance system capability over time.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, Computer Vision, or related discipline; or
  8+ years of relevant hands-on hardware engineering experience.
• Practical expertise with machine vision cameras, optics, filters, and industrial lighting solutions.
• Knowledge of illumination techniques for challenging surfaces (reflective, textured, curved, low contrast).
• Proficiency with SolidWorks or equivalent CAD tools for mechanical design and documentation.
• Experience designing mechanical fixtures, mounts, or housings for imaging hardware in existing production environments.
• Track record of deploying and tuning camera and lighting systems in industrial or manufacturing settings.
• Strong understanding of optics, imaging theory, and sensor properties.
• Ability to collaborate with software and machine learning engineers to align imaging hardware with algorithmic requirements.
• Experience troubleshooting imaging systems in the field.
• Proven ability to coordinate external partners for fabrication and installation work.

• Background in machining, fabrication, or custom hardware integration.
• Familiarity with commercial machine vision software platforms.
• Understanding of image quality metrics and measurement system analysis.
• Experience with edge devices or embedded systems for real-time imaging.
• Project management experience related to scoping and delivering hardware deployments.

• Medical, Prescription, Dental & Vision Benefits (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
• Health Savings Account (HSA) (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
• Life & Disability Insurance (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
• MetLife Voluntary Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 401K Retirement Savings Plan
• Direct Deposit & weekly epayroll
• Referral Bonus Programs
• Certification and training opportunities