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Image Sensor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sensor Characterization Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$156.85K - $160K/yr

Conduct analytic studies of CMOS image sensor's fundamental performance issues and provide technical suggestions of improvement; * Work with analog/digital design team to troubleshoot chip/system ...

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Image Sensor information

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How much do image sensor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for image sensor in the United States is $29.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $34.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Image Sensor Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Image Sensor Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, semiconductor physics, and optics, typically supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with CAD tools, image processing software, and simulation platforms like Matlab or Python is essential, along with knowledge of CMOS and CCD sensor technologies. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and troubleshoot complex issues. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing high-performance image sensors that meet industry standards and client needs.

What are some typical challenges faced by image sensor engineers when working on device integration projects?

Image sensor engineers often encounter challenges related to integrating sensors with various hardware platforms, such as smartphones, cameras, or automotive systems. These challenges can include optimizing sensor performance within strict power and space constraints, ensuring compatibility with image processing algorithms, and managing signal noise or interference. Collaboration with hardware, software, and quality assurance teams is essential to address these issues and deliver high-quality imaging solutions. Staying updated with the latest sensor technologies and industry standards is also crucial for overcoming integration hurdles.

What are image sensors?

Image sensors are electronic devices that convert light into electrical signals to create digital images. They are commonly found in cameras, smartphones, medical imaging equipment, and other devices that capture visual information. The two main types are CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) and CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) sensors, each with unique characteristics and applications. Image sensors play a crucial role in determining the quality and resolution of digital images. Their performance impacts everything from photo clarity to low-light capabilities.

What is the role of the image sensor?

An image sensor is a key component in imaging devices that converts light into electrical signals to create digital images. In an image sensor-related job, understanding how to design, test, or optimize these sensors is essential, often requiring knowledge of optics, electronics, and signal processing.

What is the difference between Image Sensor vs Camera Technician?

AspectImage SensorCamera Technician
Primary RoleComponent that captures light to create digital imagesInstalls, maintains, and repairs cameras and related equipment
Required SkillsKnowledge of electronics, optics, and sensor technologyTechnical skills in camera hardware, troubleshooting, and repair
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing facilities, or R&D settingsField service, repair shops, or studio environments
CertificationsElectronics or engineering certifications often preferredCamera repair certifications or technical training

While an image sensor is a key electronic component used within cameras to capture images, a camera technician specializes in installing, maintaining, and repairing camera equipment. The image sensor is a part of the camera's internal hardware, whereas the camera technician works on the entire device. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their focus areas differ: one on component design and manufacturing, the other on device servicing and repair.

More about Image Sensor jobs
What cities are hiring for Image Sensor jobs? Cities with the most Image Sensor job openings:
What states have the most Image Sensor jobs? States with the most job openings for Image Sensor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Image Sensor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,829 per year, or $29.7 per hour.
Principal Image Sensor Technology Engineer

Principal Image Sensor Technology Engineer

OMNIVISION

Santa Clara, CA

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

As the Principal Image Sensor Technology Engineer in the Office of the CTO at OMNIVISION (OVT), you will drive the systems development of CMOS Image Sensors. This includes next generation image sensors, modules and or imaging systems.   You will create suitable models and analyze these systems using both hand calculations and simulation.  You will also summarize the pros and cons of the development directions you analyze. You will work with multiple engineering teams to apply the results of your analysis to product development and or to R&D projects at OVT.
Responsibilities
  • Study feasibility of various technology development options
  • Create CMOS Image Sensor product concepts utilizing new technologies
  • Work closely with engineering and sales/marketing groups to drive the next-generation CMOS Image Sensor R&D projects
  • Communicate and align product planning objectives and R&D directions / status with the Product Marketing groups
  • Lead technical discussions with OVT’s customers and partners, and feedback the results of these discussions to R&D projects
Requirements
  • BSEE or MSEE or equivalent required, PhD desired
  • Prior experience in CMOS image sensor product development, application engineering or product engineering required
  • Strong analytical skills required
  • Excellent verbal, written and communications skills required
  • 5+ year prior experience in image sensor product planning and/or design leadership desired
  • Experience in specification negotiation with customers/partners desired
  • Strong organization skills desired
  • Good interpersonal skills desired
  • CMOS image sensor, camera systems, Image Signal processing and/or Digital Signal processing, optics, electro-optics or related field preferred
  • Python programming skills preferred
Annual base salary for this role in California, US is expected to be between  $180,000 - $230,000. Actual pay will be determined on a number of factors such as relevant skills and experience, and the pay of employees in the similar role. 
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