Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Photonics Engineer 3 Components dedicated to the design, development, and evaluation of sophisticated photonic components utilized in high-performance optical systems. As we scale, you will be instrumental in building our manufacturing foundation from the ground up. This is a dynamic, hands-on role for a highly self-directed engineer who thrives in an ambiguous, fast-moving environment.
This position necessitates a solid foundation in optics, photonics packaging, and precise opto-mechanical integration. The engineer will collaborate closely with manufacturing, reliability, and supply chain teams to facilitate the transition of designs from prototype stage to high-volume production. Key responsibilities include:
Component Design & Development
- Design and create photonic components, which include, but are not limited to:
- Optical isolators
- Optical switches
- High-power fiber optic connectors
- Packaged acousto-optic modulators
- Conduct optical design and modeling for both free-space and fiber-coupled optical systems.
- Develop opto-mechanical designs to ensure stable and consistent optical alignment.
- Choose and integrate essential optical components such as lenses, crystals, fibers, polarizers, and coatings.
- Perform optical tolerance assessments and conduct performance modeling.
Optical Packaging & Integration
- Design high-precision photonic packaging solutions that encompass:
- Fiber coupling assemblies
- Optical benches and mounts
- Thermal management structures
- Implement alignment methods, including active alignment, passive alignment, welding, soldering, and adhesive bonding.
- Develop automated or semi-automated assembly procedures.
Testing & Characterization
- Establish and characterize optical testing setups for component validation.
- Measure critical optical parameters such as:
- Insertion loss
- Isolation
- Return loss
- Power handling capacity
- Switching speed
- Thermal stability
- Conduct environmental testing and evaluate performance under various temperature, vibration, and lifespan conditions.
Reliability & Failure Analysis
- Assist with component reliability qualification and conduct accelerated life testing.
- Examine optical performance degradation and investigate failure modes.
- Carry out root cause analyses and implement corrective measures.
- Contribute to reliability modeling for materials, adhesives, fibers, and optical assemblies.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate closely with:
- Mechanical engineering
- Manufacturing engineering
- Supply chain
- Quality and reliability teams
- Support the transition of designs into manufacturing and the scaling of production.
- Engage with external suppliers for specialized optical components and materials.