Lead Photonics System Engineer
Drive the development and manufacturing readiness of next-generation Co-Packaged-Optics (CPO) systems, focusing on photonic integration, process control, and yield optimization. This role is central to translating client-driven specifications into scalable, high-precision manufacturing processes across international production sites.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide technical leadership during manufacturing line startup and new product introduction (NPI), with a focus on process design, yield analysis, and identifying root causes of failures to improve output quality.
- Collaborate with test and industrial engineering teams to develop comprehensive test strategies, quality checkpoints, and rework procedures that ensure early fault detection and efficient recovery workflows.
- Design and implement yield, throughput, and parametric data dashboards, integrating automated analysis tools to enable Statistical Process Control (SPC) and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Engage directly with clients to gather and interpret system requirements that inform CPO design and integration strategies.
- Support product development with input on Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to enhance reliability and manufacturability.
- Train and mentor factory-based engineers during NPI and volume ramp phases, ensuring strong technical alignment and problem-solving capability.
- Maintain active collaboration with operations and engineering teams to resolve manufacturing challenges and advance process maturity.
- Stay current with advancements in co-packaged optics, particularly in photonic packaging, fiber-optic interfaces, and test methodologies.
- Evaluate and qualify new fiber-optic connectivity solutions—including blind-mate connectors, shuffle cables, and associated tooling—for integration into product designs and factory implementation.
- Perform additional engineering duties as needed to support product lifecycle goals.
Qualifications
A 4-year degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field is required. Candidates must have at least six years of experience in developing photonic communication systems—such as optical engines, transceivers, or networking hardware—within the datacom or telecom sectors.
Proven ability to configure DC/RF electro-optical test setups and write basic automation scripts in Python or similar languages is essential. The ideal candidate is highly detail-oriented, capable of structuring R&D programs to solve complex process challenges, and demonstrates strong ownership of product outcomes. Up to 70% travel may be required, including international destinations.
Preferred qualifications include experience in manufacturing environments, particularly with NPI and volume ramp activities for optical systems. An advanced degree in electrical engineering or applied physics is advantageous.
Technical Expertise
- Co-Packaged-Optics (CPO)
- Photonics packaging and fiber-optic connectivity
- Electro-optical testbench development (DC/RF)
- Test and metrology methods
- Python for test automation
- Statistical Process Control (SPC)
- Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and FMEA
- Parametric and yield data analysis
- Failure mode and root cause investigation
Work Model
This position operates under a hybrid framework, with eligible locations including Austin, TX; San Jose, CA; Ottawa, Canada; and remote options within the U.S. and Canada. Flexibility is built into the model to support both on-site collaboration and remote productivity.
Benefits
- Performance-based short-term incentive
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Accruing paid time off starting at 3.07 hours per pay period
- Four weeks of paid parental leave
- 11 company-paid holidays in 2026 (9 fixed, 2 floating)
- 401(k) retirement savings plan
- Employee stock purchase plan
Compensation
Base salary range: $105,100 – $189,200. Additional components include equity participation through the employee stock purchase plan and a performance-linked incentive.
Culture
The organization emphasizes sustainable engineering practices, global scalability with local responsiveness, and a culture of innovation. Teams operate with entrepreneurial drive, deep technical ownership, and a commitment to building diverse, inclusive, and forward-thinking work environments.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The company is committed to equal employment opportunity and evaluates candidates based on merit, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or other protected characteristics under applicable law.
