Senior Electrical Engineer
About C. Light Technologies C. Light Technologies is a healthtech startup developing AI-enabled digital tools to assess eye and brain health for early detection and intervention. Our systems combine optics, embedded computing, and high-performance electronics to enable next-generation diagnostic platforms. Role Overview We are seeking a senior-level Electrical Engineer (Contractor) to take ownership of an existing complex PCB system and lead the design of the next-generation hardware platform. This role is highly hands-on and focused on mixed-signal PCB design, system integration, bring-up, testing, and performance optimization. You will work across analog, digital, and embedded subsystems to improve system robustness, signal quality, and overall performance. System Context (High-Level) The current platform is a dense, multi-layer mixed-signal board integrating: High-performance embedded compute with high-speed I/O (USB, HDMI/DP, PCIe-class interfaces, SSD) FPGA-based real-time data acquisition and control High-speed ADC signal chain for low-amplitude analog inputs (e.g., photodiode/APD signals) Precision DAC outputs driving analog control systems (±10V range) Analog front-end with amplification, filtering, and signal conditioning Closed-loop control for scanning systems (including PID-related hardware interactions) Dual scanner architecture (galvanometer + resonant scanning) Multi-device USB architecture (cameras, storage, peripherals) via hub topology RS-485 communication for daisy-chained motor control (stepper systems) Multi-rail power architecture (+/- rails, low-noise analog supplies, high-current digital rails) This system requires strong expertise in signal integrity, power integrity, grounding, and mixed-domain isolation. Key Responsibilities Take ownership of existing PCB schematics, layout, and system behaviorLead next-generation board architecture and design improvementsPerform and/or guide schematic design and PCB layout in Altium DesignerOptimize:High-speed signal integrity (USB, differential pairs, high-bandwidth links)Analog performance (low-noise design, ADC/DAC accuracy, filtering) Power integrity and sequencing across multiple voltage domains Debug and improve mixed-signal interactions and noise coupling issuesSupport hardware bring-up, validation, and system-level debuggingWork on scanner control electronics, including analog drive and feedback paths Validate and improve: Data acquisition paths Control signal generation Communication interfaces (USB, RS-485, etc.) Work closely with embedded software engineers to test hardware functionality, validate interfaces, and debug system-level issues Collaborate with the broader software team on functionality testing, integration, and system validationImprove EMI/EMC performance, reliability, and manufacturabilityDocument design decisions and support future scalability Qualifications 5–10+ years of experience in PCB design and system-level hardware engineeringStrong background in mixed-signal design (analog + high-speed digital)Required: Strong proficiency with Altium Designer (schematic capture, layout, and design review) Experience with: High-speed interfaces (USB 3.x, HDMI/DP, PCIe or equivalent) Precision analog design (ADC/DAC, low-noise signal chains) FPGA-based systems or tightly coupled compute + logic architectures Embedded systems with complex I/O and peripheral integration Deep understanding of: Signal integrity and controlled impedance routing Grounding, shielding, and noise isolation strategies Multi-rail power design and distribution Hands-on experience with board bring-up, debugging, and lab instrumentationExperience with motion control systems or feedback control hardware is a plusExperience in medical devices or regulated environments is a plusContract Details Type: Contractor (1099 or equivalent) Duration: Minimum 6 months, with potential extension to 12 monthsLocation: On-site (Santa Clara, CA preferred) Compensation: Hourly, based on experience Contract Terms:This is a contractor role compensated on an hourly basisNo PTO, health insurance, or equity compensation providedEngagement follows standard industry contractor terms and agreements What We’re Looking For Someone who can quickly understand and take ownership of a complex existing hardware systemStrong problem solver who can debug real-world system issues (not just design on paper)Ability to lead hardware decisions and drive next-generation improvementsComfortable operating in a fast-paced startup environment with evolving requirements Equal Opportunity Statement C. Light Technologies is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We highly value diversity in our current and future team members and do not discriminate (including in hiring or engagement practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.