Staff Acoustic Sensor Architect

As a Staff Acoustic Engineer, you will be the primary architect of the audio experience for our next-generation hardware. You will bridge the gap between physical acoustics and digital signal processing, overseeing the entire audio chain—from the selection of high-performance transducers to the implementation of sophisticated on-chip noise cancellation algorithms. Your goal is to deliver pristine, high-fidelity audio capture and reproduction in complex acoustic environments.

This role blends deep technical execution with cross-functional influence, impacting Oura’s sensor roadmap, performance outcomes, and long-term platform strategy. You will be reporting into the Director, Hardware Sensing and reporting out of our San Francisco location.

• Lead the evaluation and selection of MEMS microphones and speaker drivers based on sensitivity, SNR, THD, and frequency response requirements.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers to design acoustic enclosures, ports, and gaskets to optimize hardware-level performance.

• Perform comprehensive electro-acoustic measurements using industry-standard tools (e.g., Audio Precision, Klippel, Listen SoundCheck).
• Conduct testing in anechoic and hemi-anechoic chambers to characterize polar patterns, SPL, and rub-and-buzz.

• Define and tune On-Chip Processing parameters, including Gain Control, EQ, and Dynamic Range Compression (DRC).
• Develop and implement algorithms for Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Echo Cancellation (AEC), and multi-mic Beamforming.

• Identify and mitigate acoustic and electrical noise floors (e.g., wind noise, structural vibration, or EMI).
• Optimize the digital signal path to ensure low-latency processing and high power efficiency.

• Lead integration of related sensors into Oura Ring hardware, ensuring calibration, noise management, power efficiency, and high-quality signal acquisition.
• Design and execute sensor characterization and validation tests from prototype through production.

• Collaborate with firmware, algorithm, and systems teams to ensure accurate acoustic data feeds into Oura’s signal processing and machine learning stacks.
• Contribute to product planning and sensor roadmap discussions based on performance feedback and technology advances.

• Engage with sensor vendors, partners, and manufacturers to assess technology options, secure components, and optimize integration into mass-production workflows.

• Produce clear technical documentation of designs, trade studies, test plans, and performance metrics.
• Present findings and recommendations to engineering leadership and cross-disciplinary stakeholders.

• 10+ years of experience in acoustic, microphone systems, or speaker design and integration roles and shipping products in high volume.
• Strong background in acoustic characterization, signal quality analysis, embedded systems, and data integrity practices.
• Excellent analytical problem-solving and written/verbal communication skills.
• Collaborative mindset with experience working across hardware, firmware, and analytics teams.