Senior Test Engineer, Photonics Systems
Thrively is partnering with an innovative, well-funded hardware startup at the intersection of MEMS, silicon photonics, and AI-scale infrastructure. The team is developing a next-generation optical switching technology designed to eliminate data-center interconnect bottlenecks and enable ultra-high-performance GPU fabrics.Their product is a compact, chip-scale optical switching platform with exceptionally low power consumption, high radix, and breakthrough scalability, positioning the company as a transformative player in next-generation AI and high-performance compute networks.Role OverviewWe are seeking a Senior/Staff Photonics Systems Test Engineer to own system-level silicon photonics testing and characterization. This engineer will define test methodologies, develop automation, evaluate optical measurement equipment, and execute hands-on testing to ensure the highest levels of performance and reliability.You will work across hardware, photonics, and validation teams to mature testing from bench-level characterization through scalable, manufacturing-ready processes.Key Responsibilities1. Manufacturing Test DevelopmentBuild end-to-end test readiness for the company’s optical product line, ensuring coverage for all critical performance and reliability metrics.Conduct Measurement System Capability and Process Capability Analysis (MSA/CpK).Ensure test processes comply with relevant industry standards (e.g., Telcordia, JEDEC).2. Test Systems AutomationDesign and implement test equipment and fixtures—both internally developed and through external partners.Evaluate and select optical test instruments to ensure required precision and measurement capability.Develop and maintain high-quality Python-based test and process automation.Integrate and debug test hardware/software, defining test cases, parameters, and acceptance criteria.3. Troubleshooting & Failure AnalysisOwn troubleshooting and validation of complex electromechanical and optical test stations.Apply Gage R&R, DOE, JMP, MATLAB, and statistical tools to separate signal from noise.Lead structured root-cause investigations (FMEA, 8D, 5-Whys).Monitor test yield and drive test-process optimization.4. Documentation & Cross-Functional ExecutionCollaborate effectively with multidisciplinary engineering teams and contract manufacturers.Produce thorough documentation: test diagrams, engineering drawings, specifications, SOPs, and work instructions.Maintain organized, accessible, and traceable test data.Required QualificationsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.6+ years of experience in systems engineering or test development within hardware, high-volume manufacturing, or startup environments.4+ years hands-on experience in optical and systems testing focused on singlemode optics and passive components for telecom/datacenter applications.Strong proficiency with optical test equipment, including:OSA, tunable lasers, power meters, polarization synthesizersOTDR/OFDR/OCCR, phase measurement techniquesExpertise in referencing and calibration for optical test instruments.Strong background in troubleshooting using structured root-cause tools.Ability to read and interpret schematics, block diagrams, and PCB layouts.Proficiency in Python for automation and data analysis.Hands-on experience with LabVIEW and/or NI TestStand.Excellent communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.Preferred QualificationsDirect test experience with components such as DWDM filters, Mux/Demux, circulators, couplers, and optical switches.Experience working in fast-moving, high-growth environments.Willingness to travel occasionally to support manufacturing partners.Familiarity with optical metrics and characterization methodologies including: IL, RL, WDL, PDL, CD, DGD, GDR, MPI.How to ApplyThrively is managing this search directly. Interested candidates may apply via LinkedIn or contact the Thrively recruiting team for more information.